What Makes a Car a Toyota Certified Used Vehicle?

Buying a used car can be nerve-wracking. You never know what you are getting from private sellers and roadside lots. Forget your worries with a Toyota Certified Used Vehicle from Limbaugh Toyota. Toyota Certified Used Vehicles are part of a factory-backed, certified pre-owned program, which is honored at over 1,400 Toyota dealerships across the United States and Canada. Only the highest quality pre-owned vehicles become Toyota Certified Used Vehicles, and the advantages of owning one are comparable to buying a brand new car.

toyota certified logo

You will not find an old or overworked car among the Toyota Certified Used Vehicles. To be eligible for the program, a vehicle must have fewer than 85,000 miles on the odometer and be the current model year or six model years back. Once those requirements are satisfied, the vehicle must pass Toyota’s rigorous 160-Point Quality Assurance Inspection. This inspection covers every inch inside and out, from the engine compartment, battery system, and transmission, to the interior condition and appearance, lighting systems, and audio and alarm systems.

Toyota is confident in its Certified Used Vehicles, and it passes that assurance on to the buyer. A CARFAX Vehicle History Report is available for each Certified carfax logo Used Vehicle. Certified customers are also eligible for standard new-car financing rates. Once purchased, a Limited Comprehensive Warranty lasts for 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever occurs first, and covers any repair or replacement of components that fail under normal use due to a defect in materials or workmanship. A Limited Powertrain Warranty covers major engine and transmission components and all internally lubricated parts, and lasts for 7 years or 100,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Also, for the first year of ownership, Toyota includes 24-hour Roadside Assistance, including servicing flat tires, jump starts, towing, and emergency fuel delivery.

Take the uncertainty out of purchasing a used car. Buy a Toyota Certified Used Vehicle from Limbaugh Toyota in Birmingham, Alabama, and drive home with confidence.

Used Cars Made in Alabama

state of alabamaEven when you buy used, you can buy local. Many of the Toyota Certified Used Vehicles available at Limbaugh Toyota in Birmingham were made in whole or in part right here in Alabama.

Since May 2005, Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama has employed over 3,000 workers to produce several models and engines. The Hyundai Sonata and the Hyundai Elantra are produced in this Montgomery factory, as was the Hyundai Santa Fe until 2010. Additionally the Lambda, Theta, and Nu engines, which power vehicles from the Genesis and Elantra to the Sportage and Forte, are made here every day.

Mercedes-Benz has been a positive presence in the local community since it began production in 1997 at the Mercedes-Benz U.S. International plant in Vance, Alabama. This plant produces the M-Class, R-Class, GL-Class, and C-Class. The Mercedes-Benz plant employs roughly 4,000 people to manufacture these luxury vehicles.

Lincoln, Alabama is the site of Honda Manufacturing of Alabama. The four thousand locals employed by Honda make the Honda Odyssey, Honda Pilot, and Acura MDX, as well as the Honda J engine, a V6 that is found in several Honda and Acura vehicles. Honda Ridgelines were made here from 2008 to 2014, as were V6 Honda Accords between 2009 and 2010.

tacoma engineHuntsville, Alabama is home to Toyota Motor Manufacturing Alabama. This factory has been making making engines for top Toyota models since 2003. The V6 engines that power the Tacoma and Highlander are made in Huntsville. The V8 engines that roar inside the Tundra and Sequoia also call Alabama home. The hundreds of local Toyota factory workers also make the AR 4-cylinder engines for the Venza, Camry, and Scion tC. International Diesel of Alabama is another Huntsville-based manufacturer that makes V6 and V8 diesel engines.

Limbaugh Toyota in Birmingham is proud to offer many Toyota Certified Used Vehicles that trace their origins to right here in Alabama.

Toyota Makes the Most Reliable Used Cars

Every car seems perfect when you buy it brand new, but how well will it stand JD Powerthe test of time? J.D. Power studies the dependability of real world vehicles, focusing on how many problems vehicle owners actually experience. The Most Reliable Compact Car, Most Reliable Minivan, and Most Reliable non-luxury Automobile Brand are all Toyotas, according to J.D. Power’s 2015 Dependability Study. That means a used Toyota functions more like a brand new one than any other non-luxury vehicle does.

J.D. Power’s 2015 Vehicle Dependability Study asked the original owners of 2012 model year vehicles what problems they experienced during the previous 12 months. The 2012 Toyota Corolla beat the 2012 Nissan Leaf and 2012 Honda Civic to be named the Most Reliable Compact Car. The 2012 Corolla’s enhanced standard equipment and premium option package performed better than the 2014 Toyota Siennamany vehicles whose owners complained of malfunctioning tech equipment. The 2012 Toyota Sienna, with its available infotainment system and variety of trim levels, was named the Most Reliable Minivan. 2012 Sienna owners reported fewer problems than the 2012 Honda Odyssey.

J.D. Power also ranked each automobile brand as a whole for reliability. Toyota toyota logowas ranked #3, behind #1 Lexus and #2 Buick, making it the top-ranked non-luxury automobile brand. Toyota is ranked more reliable than #5 Honda, #13 Nissan, #22 Volkswagen, and last place #31 Fiat. For all brands, owners reported an average of 147 problems per 100 vehicles. Toyota owners, however, reported only 111 problems per 100 vehicles.

Choose your dependable used vehicle today from Limbaugh Toyota in Birmingham. Limbaugh carries a full inventory of used vehicles, from a wide variety of brands, including the Power Ranked Lexus, Buick, Cadillac, and of course Toyota.

Here’s What Included In Our 160 Point Toyota Certified Inspection

Before a vehicle becomes a Toyota Certified Used Vehicle, it must pass a comprehensive 160-point inspection. Certified Toyota mechanics checks every inch of the vehicle to make sure that your Toyota dealer has only the highest quality used vehicles available.

toyota certified used vehicle logo

toyota camry enginePowertrain

The heart of the vehicle beats in the Engine Compartment:

  • Change engine oil and filter
  • Check for evidence of sludge
  • Inspect for fuel, oil, coolant or other fluid leaks
  • Engine cold high idle correct
  • No abnormal engine noise at cold start
  • Throttle does not stick shut on cold start
  • Drivability OK during warm-up
  • Hot drivability OK
  • Engine reaches normal operating temperature
  • Engine fan functions properly
  • No excessive drone or vibration from engine
  • Drive belts and hoses free of cracks or damage
  • No damage to engine mounts
  • Check under-hood labels and decals
  • Engine compartment is clean
  • Under-hood heat insulator pad is clean
  • Engine free of excessive dressing
  • Inspect air filter
  • Oil, brake, clutch, transmission, transfer case, washer and power steering fluid levels OK
  • Under-hood fluids clear and uncontaminated

toyota camry clutchThe Transmission and Transaxle are evaluated for proper performance:

  • Transmission/clutch operates smoothly
  • Automatic transmission in “ECT” power mode shifts properly
  • Transmission gear ranges engage promptly while shifting when warmed up
  • Transmission shift lock and key interlock system OK
  • Transmission does not shift into overdrive when button is in OFF position
  • Inspect transmission case and pan for leaks
  • No damage to drive and axle shafts
  • Differential fluid level correct

toyota camry ac controls

The Engine Coolant and HVAC System keep the car and its future owner cool and composed:

  • Engine coolant at proper hot and cold levels
  • Coolant specific gravity to -31° Fahrenheit
  • A/C cooling operation normal
  • A/C refrigerant sight glass clear
  • Heater operation normal

Operation

9889_st1280_133A thorough inspection of the Braking System ensures everything is in top condition:

  • Inspect brakes, calipers, lines and hoses
  • No excessive vibration during braking
  • ABS operates on “panic stop”
  • Parking brake sets and holds vehicle
  • Brake pads/shoes must have minimum of 50% wear remaining
  • No excessive grooving or heat checking of rotors or drums
  • Parking brake releases completely
  • Brake pedal free play and travel is normal

Each vehicle must be sound in Frame, Structure and Underbody:toyota camry exhaust

  • Frame/Unibody check
  • Inspect body surface
  • Inspect panel alignment and fit
  • Inspect lower body and under body for damage
  • Check exhaust systems and hangers

The Tires and Suspension System is where the rubber meets the road:toyota camry wheels

  • Inspect tires for defects, damage and inflation
  • Minimum of 5/32″ tread depth remaining across tread width
  • All four tires must be of same brand, model, size, tread design, speed and load rating
  • Wheels are clean and free of brake dust
  • Tires are dressed, not greasy
  • Wheel cover caps secure with no damage
  • Inspect struts/shocks for leaks and wear
  • No damage to CV joints/boots

A stable Steering System is essential for comfortable driving:

  • Steering has normal feel in lock-to-lock turningtoyota camry steering wheel
  • Steering wheel centered in straight line driving
  • Vehicle tracks and drives straight on level surface
  • Tilt steering wheel adjustment works properly
  • No excessive wind whistle or buzz
  • No excessive tire vibration or steering wheel shimmy at any speed
  • Interior free of significant squeaks or rattles
  • Inspect steering rack, linkage, bushings, control arms and dust boots

 The Trunk Compartment and Spare are in the back of the car, not the back of the mind:

  • Trunk is clean, free of debris, no stains
  • Trunk light and trunk trim appearance
  • Jack and tools are correct, present and secured
  • Fiber board tire cover is not broken/warpedtoyota camry trunk space
  • Spare tire present
  • Spare tire and storage areas are clean
  • Spare tire is securely fastened
  • No signs of damage to spare tire
  • Minimum 5/32″ tread remaining on spare
  • Spare tire has correct air pressure

Hybrid Components require specialize attention:

  • Hybrid Vehicle Immobilizer Systemtoyota camry hybrid engine
  • Multi-Information Display
  • Inverter Coolant Level
  • Engine and ECT (Electronically Controlled Transmission)
  • ABS (Anti-lock Brake System)
  • EMPS (Electric Motor Assisted Power Steering)
  • CCS (Cruise Control System)
  • SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) Airbag
  • HV ECU (Hybrid Vehicle Electronic Control Unit)
  • HV (Hybrid Vehicle) Battery
  • Perform “Onboard Equalizing Charge” of HV Battery using Intelligent Tester
  • Fully charge 12-Volt Auxiliary Battery
  • Clean or replace Air Refiner Filter (A/C or evaporator filter)
  • Check Transaxle “Park” Mechanism

Technology

A pre-owned vehicle doesn’t mean a second-class Audio and Alarm System:

  • Audio/cassette/CD system working normally, CD cartridge present (if equipped)2013-Toyota-Camry-SE-cockpit
  • Antenna is present and functions properly
  • Radio speakers do not rattle at high volume
  • Remote entry system works properly (if equipped)
  • Theft-deterrent system works properly (if equipped)

 There are more Lighting Systems on one vehicle than you may realize:toyota camry lights

  • Warning lights function
  • High and low beams OK
  • Headlight aim is OK
  • Taillights work
  • Brake lights work
  • Side marker lights work
  • Backup lights work
  • License plate lights work
  • Instrument lights work
  • Heater lights work
  • Dash light dimmer works
  • Turn signals operate correctly and self-cancel
  • Four-way flashers work
  • Defogger indicator light turns on with switch ON
  • Dome/courtesy lights operate with door cycles

Instrument Panel and Electronic Systems are the central nervous system of the vehicle:toyota camry guages

  • Master key is present
  • Fuel gauge reads correctly
  • Battery voltage gauge reads correctly
  • Horn works
  • Airbag deployment/replaced airbag
  • Speedometer and odometer work properly
  • Cruise control operation normal
  • Clock keeps time
  • All wiper speeds work correctly
  • Windshield washer operates
  • Wiper blades are in good condition and work
  • Wipers return to correct position when OFF
  • All mirrors have full range of adjustment
  • Windows operate normally
  • Window locks operate normally
  • Power windows operate from master switch and all door switches
  • Memory seat control operates properly

The Battery System must keep the charge to keep you going:

  • Battery in good condition, has proper cold cranking amps and reserve capacity
  • Battery proper size and secure
  • Battery posts free of corrosion
  • Cables in good condition

Overall Quality

A good Exterior Condition and Appearance means a good first impression:

  • Exterior is clean and free of road residueprius from above
  • No cracked or broken lenses of exterior lights
  • Outside rearview mirror operates/lens is good
  • Glass free of cracks, stars and large chips
  • Glass is free of improper repairs
  • Bumpers are free of cuts, gouges and scratches
  • Body is free of all dents
  • Body is reasonably free of dings
  • Paint is reasonably free of scratches and chips
  • Vehicle is free of improper paint repairs or mismatched color
  • Hood and trunk latches working
  • Free of water spots
  • Paint is free of swirl marks
  • Paint has even, high luster
  • Paint is free of buffable scratches
  • Free of wax residue
  • Wheelwells are clean
  • Acceptable aftermarket items checked
  • Removal of unacceptable aftermarket items

The Interior Condition and Appearance has to be up to snuff:

  • Day/night mirror operates and lens is good
  • Window tinting clear and free of bubblestoyota camry inside
  • Cigarette lighter is intact and operates
  • Ashtrays function and are in good condition
  • Ashtrays and lighter are clean; no evidence of use
  • Headliner, sun visors, dash pad, upholstery, console, cup holders, trim panels, floor mats and carpets are in place and in good condition (if equipped)
  • Cup holder extends completely and sturdily
  • Doors open and close correctly
  • Door locks, including child safety locks, work properly
  • Seats, including all position adjusters, work properly
  • Headrests function properly
  • Rear defogger grid lines intact
  • Interior leather, vinyl, plastic, carpet and fabric surfaces are free of holes, rips, tears, excessive wear or fading
  • No evidence of previous improper repairs
  • Inspect seatbelt condition
  • Seatbelts have full range of extension and smooth operation
  • Seatbelts lock up per specification
  • Inside remote release operates normally
  • Interior is free of debris
  • Dash and vents are clean and properly dressed
  • All crevices are clean
  • Doorjambs are cleantoyota camry glove box
  • Glove box and console compartments are clean
  • Seats, carpets, floor mats and headliner are free of stains (if equipped)
  • Free of odor, including heavy perfume
  • Glass is clean and free of streaks

Every Toyota Certified Used Vehicle must have a clean Vehicle History:

  • Run and print a CARFAX® Vehicle History Report Check for outstanding Special Service Campaigns

Emissions and State Inspectiontoyota camry gas cap

  • Perform emissions test and/or state inspection, if required

 Inspectors evaluate Additional Items, Where Applicable:

  • “Fade-away” dome light works properly
  • Sunroof/convertible top operates toyota camry sun roofnormally through full range of positions
  • Convertible top lockout function operates
  • Radio security codes cleared
  • Navigation system works properly
  • Transfer case smoothly switches from 2WD to 4WD and back from 4WD to 2WD
  • Truck bed is in good conditiontoyota tundra truck bed
  • Truck bedliner is in good condition and secured
  • Tailgate functions properly
  • Rear bumper is in good condition and secured

From bumper to bumper, from axle shaft to trunk light, if it is part of a Toyota Certified Used Vehicle, you know it passed the test. Come see the wide selection of qualified vehicles at Limbaugh Toyota in Birmingham, Alabama.

2008-2015 Toyota Camry: Year by Year Model Changes

Every year, the Toyota Camry is updated to reflect the best in technology, safety, and drivability, while maintaining the greatest quality and value of any 4-door sedan on the road.

2008 camry2008 Camry

The 2008 Toyota Camry is equipped with either a 2.4L 4-cylinder or powerful V6 engine, with available 5-speed manual or automatic transmission. The 2008 Camry ranges from the simple CE trim to the luxury-appointed XLE trim. Air conditioning, cruise control, full power accessories, ABS brakes, and AM/FM/CD/Satellite audio provide comfort and convenience.

2009 Camry

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The 2009 Camry maintains its predecessor’s excellent powertrain options and convenience features. Instead of being an upgrade option, remote keyless entry is standard on all non-Hybrid 2009 models.

Toyota Camry 20102010 Camry

Updated exterior styling, enhanced interior features, and a new powertrain define the 2010 Toyota Camry. Variable Valve Timing with Intelligence, a new 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, and new 6-speed manual and automatic transmissions increase horsepower and efficiency. Vehicle Stability Control and auto up/down window control is standard on all four door 2010 Camrys.

2011 Camry2011 Toyota Camry

The 2011 Camry offers three different engines: a 169 horsepower 4-cylinder, a 179 horsepower 4-cylinder, and a 268 horsepower V6. Available features include an 8-speaker sound system, voice-activated touchscreen navigation, heated front seats, and Push Button start.

2012 Toyota Camry2012 Camry

The totally redesigned 2012 Toyota Camry is more spacious and aerodynamic than ever. A larger trunk and 60/40 split folding rear seats offer greater cargo capacity. Only available with a 6-speed automatic transmission, the 4-cylinder 2012 Camry achieves a combined average of 29 mpg.

2013 Camry2013 Toyota Camry

Technological upgrades in the 2013 Camry include a standard touchscreen audio system display and Bluetooth hands-free capabilities. An available Blind Spot Monitoring system adds to the standard safety features, including Traction Control, ABS. and Smart Stop Technology.

2014 Toyota Camry2014 Camry

The 2014 Camry introduces the SE Sport edition, which adds a sport suspension, sunroof, and 18-inch alloy wheels and tires. A mid-year update, the 2014.5 Camry, if you will, adds a standard backup camera, enhanced audio options, and design changes for better crash resistance.

2015 Camry2015 Toyota Camry

The redesigned 2015 Toyota Camry is bolder, sportier, and modernized. A new 4.2-inch Thin-Film-Transistor screen displays vehicle alerts, a revised suspension delivers precision handling, and safety options like Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Departure Alert are newly available.

Limbaugh Toyota in Birmingham, Alabama, offers a range of new and used Toyota Camrys. Find out which Camry is right for you today.