Best Coffee Shops in Jacksonville, FL
When you’re looking for an amazing cup of coffee, and possibly a sweet treat or two to go with it, you will find some incredible coffee shops in the Jacksonville area. At Keith Pierson Toyota, we love starting our day with a fresh cup of joe and look forward to trying new coffee drinks from time to time. Try these highly rated and often recommended coffee bistros for some of the best-tasting brews in Jacksonville.
Bold Bean Coffee Roasters
At Bold Bean Coffee Roasters, their mission is to not only source, roast, and serve remarkable coffees, but to also foster community, be kind to others, and of course, have fun. Founded in 2007, this coffee bistro focuses on serving the Jacksonville community by providing aromatic, sustainably-sourced coffee. They build relationships with various vendors in their supply chain, believing this is the best way to discover the finest coffee available.
What sets Bold Bean apart from its competitors is it’s in-house gas-fired coffee roaster, which provides the staff with precise control over how the beans taste and smell. They also offer three different coffee subscriptions — Roaster’s Choice, Sweet Spot, and Decaf. Roaster’s Choice is a rotating selection of their globally sourced coffees. The Sweet Spot is their signature blend of Latin American coffees and the Decaf subscription is a full-bodied coffee from Risaralda, Columbia. You can choose the frequency of shipments as well as the bag size and grind size.
Silver Cow
The Silver Cow is an all-in-one coffee shop, neighborhood bar, and community gathering place. Enjoy a great hot coffee or Vietnamese iced coffee on your way to work and then stop back that evening for a craft soda, artisan beer, or glass of boutique wine. Located in historic Murray Hill, this coffee shop features several refreshments such as tea, Italian cream soda, and cider, and light bites like retro candy, Charcuterie snack plates, packaged snacks, and olive and cracker plates. Don’t forget to enjoy a vintage board game or two as well.
This local coffee boutique is the ideal location for a team-building meeting or a group workshop. The free Wi-Fi and two large flat-screen televisions can be used for any presentation. Plan a small get-together with friends and enjoy a glass of wine or one of their mimosas. What truly makes this place unique is its pet-friendly atmosphere. Take your pup for a walk and stop on by the Silver Cow for an afternoon caffeine recharge.
Brass Tacks Coffee Co.
The mission of Brass Tacks Coffee Co. is to make great coffee more accessible. They do just that by providing amazing coffee that is served by approachable baristas in a friendly cafe atmosphere. Along with their traditional coffee drinks like the cappuccino, iced latte, or cold brew coffee with a wide variety of syrups, Brass Tacks also serves chai lattes, blended matcha, hot or iced tea, and kombucha. If you are interested in serving their coffee in your restaurant, church, or office building, they also provide wholesale coffee for small businesses and organizations.
Brass Tacks serves an interesting menu full of espresso, coffees, and teas, as well as both breakfast, lunch, and snack bites. Stop by on your way to work for a quick hot coffee and breakfast dish like a Build Your Own Burrito, biscuits and gravy, or Nutella waffles. Enjoy a leisurely lunch break with a Chai latte and a Chicken Pot Pie Biscuit, Greek Garden Wrap, or soft Bavarian pretzel with your choice of toppings.
Southern Roots Filling Station
Southern Roots Filling Station is known as Jacksonville’s favorite vegan cafe. With a focus on sustainability and high-quality ingredients, their goal is to inspire community through a commitment to food, coffee, culture, and the environment. The menu is simple and consists of coffee and espresso drinks as well as tea and matcha beverages. And, of course, because it is a plant-based cafe, all of its food offerings are vegan and gluten-free.
Not only does Southern Roots serve remarkable coffee but it also serves in-house made-from-scratch baked goods daily. With a selection of donuts, muffins, scones, biscuits, oat bars, and cookies, all their pastries are inspired by the various seasons. If you have an upcoming birthday celebration or office party, be sure to take advantage of their catering services. Donuts by the dozens, birthday cakes, and mini-cookies are a few of their specialty baked good items you can order for group occasions.
Sago Coffee
Sago Coffee has a mission to bring the beach community together by serving great-tasting coffee in an uplifting atmosphere. By serving their amazing brew to the people of Jacksonville, the owners of Sago aspire to make a positive change in the community. The owners of Sago also believe in giving back in meaningful ways which is why they partner with a wide range of local causes such as Hunger Fight. This early childhood literacy program provides age-appropriate books to preschoolers who attend daycare in low-income areas.
The menu at Sago offers various coffees, teas, signature drinks, sweet and savory dishes, and a kid’s menu. Enjoy a cortado, macchiato, or nitro cold brew, or one of their pour-over brews such as Xocomil from Guatemala or Cerro El Tigre from El Salvador. Order a coconut oolong tea, masala chai, or turmeric ginger tea. For a light lunch or dinner, try the chicken salad sandwich on a toasted croissant, an avocado bacon bagel, or a bowl of their seasonal soup with a slice of their sourdough bread.
When you need a sweet treat, consider ordering the Affogato, a scoop of French vanilla gelato with a double shot of hot espresso. You may also want to try the Liege Waffle, which is a Belgian-style waffle filled with sugar pearls and served warm.
Have you tried any of these local coffee shops? If not, which one do you think you’ll be visiting first? If there’s a favorite of yours that we missed, we’d love to hear about it. Simply contact us to let us know and we’ll be happy to add it to our list. We’re always looking for great recommendations for local shops and businesses in the Jacksonville area.
Guide to Car Filters
When you buy a new or used vehicle from Keith Pierson Toyota, it will run as smoothly and efficiently as the day it left the factory. But, to keep your car driving like new, it needs to have regular maintenance and servicing. An important element of servicing is having the filters cleaned or replaced.
Dirty and clogged filters can affect your car’s performance, fuel economy, and even the air that you breathe in the cabin. In this article, we’ll take a look at the different types of filters, what they do, and why you need to have them replaced regularly.
Types of Car Filters
Every gasoline- or diesel-powered car has four main filters, or five if it has an automatic transmission. They are the engine oil filter, engine air filter, fuel filter, cabin air filter, and if applicable, a transmission filter. Your car’s filters all have the same basic purpose: to catch impurities and ensure the free flow of fluids and air. This includes capturing dirt and contaminants in the car’s fuel or oil and removing dust and impurities from the air.
Your car needs to breathe as much as you do, and if you don’t have the filters replaced regularly when you drive the Jacksonville roads, they will become more and more clogged until they don’t work properly. Eventually, that will affect the engine’s efficiency and impact the air quality inside your vehicle. Your car will run better and use less fuel if your filters are changed regularly.
Oil Filter
Your car’s engine operates at very high temperatures as the various parts move together to make the vehicle run. Engine oil is essential to lubricate all the moving components to reduce friction and absorb heat from the engine. This ensures the car runs at its best and most efficient, and reduces wear to prolong the life of your engine.
As the oil circulates, it can pick up contaminants, such as dirt, metallic particles, and oxidized oil. The oil filter catches these impurities and cleans the oil, so it can continue to circulate efficiently. The filter has sufficient capacity to hold all the impurities while remaining completely functional until the car is due for an oil change.
If you wait too long to change your oil filter, it will eventually allow contaminants to pass through. That can result in poor performance, the premature wear of engine components, or even engine failure, meaning an expensive repair. Signs your filter is overdue for replacement include a sputtering or jerky engine, metallic engine noises, and a drop in oil pressure.
You should change your car’s oil filter (along with the oil) every 3,000 to 7,000 miles, depending on your driving habits and your vehicle’s age. The climate in Jacksonville, Florida, can be quite harsh on your engine, so more frequent changes would be preferable.
Fuel Filter
Fuel is clean when it leaves the refinery, but by the time it has passed through delivery trucks and gas station tanks, it can become contaminated before it even gets to your vehicle. Your car’s engine depends on the clean delivery of fuel via the fuel pump and injectors to run well.
The fuel filter is a small cartridge that fits inside the fuel line and is designed to catch any impurities before it passes through to the injectors. It helps protect the fuel injectors and maintain the performance and life span of your engine.
When the fuel filter becomes obstructed, the flow of fuel is reduced and the pump has to work much harder to draw fuel. You might have trouble starting up your car, notice poor acceleration, or experience misfiring and stalling. The abrasive nature of contaminants in the fuel can cause excessive wear, damage delicate parts, and cause the failure of the fuel pump and injectors.
It’s generally recommended to replace the fuel filter after 30,000 miles or two years. Check your car’s manual or visit our service department at Keith Pierson Toyota for advice.
Engine Air Filter
For an internal combustion engine to work, it needs a combination of fuel, oxygen, and sparks. The air flowing into the engine needs to be clean for the combustion process to work effectively and to give you efficient power delivery. Air comes into the air intake from the front of the car as you drive.
The air filter is situated just behind the intake under the hood and is designed to keep out road grime, dust, sand, bugs, water, and anything else that comes in through the grille from the Jacksonville highways. A clogged air filter can lead to an incomplete combustion process, causing your engine to sputter, blow out black smoke, and use more fuel. This filter is one of the easiest components to remove to clean or replace.
Transmission Filter
If your car has an automatic transmission, it will also have a transmission filter located just above the transmission fluid pan. The transmission filter prevents dirt, debris, and metal particles from getting into the transmission gears. Changing the transmission filter is a job for one of the expert technicians in our Keith Pierson Toyota service center. Signs that the filter needs to be replaced could be clunky gear changes, strange noises when shifting gear, or a burning smell from the transmission.
Cabin Air Filter
The cabin air filter is part of your car’s heating and ventilation system and prevents air pollutants such as dust and pollen from entering the cabin. If your vehicle has a carbon-activated cabin filter, it will also help keep out exhaust fumes and other odors. The cabin filter helps you breathe cleaner air and extends the life of your car’s HVAC system.
When you bring your car for a service at Keith Pierson Toyota, our technicians will check and replace the filters according to the manufacturer’s recommended schedule. Contact us today to schedule a service or to ask our advice if you have any concerns about your car’s filters.
Kid Friendly Restaurants in Jacksonville
If you’re looking for delicious family-friendly dining in the Jacksonville area, we have plenty of suggestions for you to check out. Our area has as many places to dine as it has things to do, ensuring that families here are never bored. Try these options when you need to find a satisfying bite for everyone, from kids to adults.
Harp’s American Pub & Grill
Harp’s caters to everyone in the family with an impressive beer and wine selection for parents and more than half a dozen dishes just for the kids. The Youngins’ section of the menu offers more than a few laughs with names like “I’m Not Hungry,” “I Don’t Know,” “I Don’t Care,” and “Blank Stare” for the dishes. It’s never been easier for kids to order for themselves. Even the stubborn “Nothing” translates to fried or grilled fish on this playful menu. Even picky eaters will enjoy the lineup of go-to options like grilled cheese, chicken fingers, marinara pasta, and hot dogs.
Meanwhile, the adults in the party can enjoy specialties like chicken-topped Tijuana nachos, fried shrimp, and Fettuccine Alfredo. The menu also includes paninis, wings, salads, sandwiches, burgers, and frankfurters. With options this diverse, you’re sure to find something for everyone.
The Local
If you’re looking for a welcoming atmosphere, thoughtfully crafted meals, and a beguiling kid’s menu, you’ve found it. The Local focuses on creating the same beloved environment you find when you’re home for dinner at Mama’s. Every menu includes a selection for kids. As you’re enjoying a gourmet taste of The Blue Goat for brunch with blueberry bread pudding, whipped goat cheese, and a fresh strawberry puree, your kids can dig into bacon, scrambled eggs, and home fries or strawberry-topped waffles.
The lunch menu features half a grilled cheese, chicken nuggets, or half of a ham or turkey sandwich for kids. Meanwhile, the rest of your party can try the bistro burger on a grilled ciabatta bun or alluring Wonder Tacos topped with grilled chicken, red cabbage, sweet chili aioli, and WonderSauce. The dinner menu adds pasta with butter or marinara and grilled chicken and corn for kids while adults can get mouthwatering entrees like Argentinian salmon or Churrasco New York strip. Everyone is sure to leave happy from this spot.
Dockside Seafood Restaurant
Kids will enjoy Dockside Seafood Restaurant before they’ve even seen the menu. The atmosphere alone is enough to coax a friendly attitude from your little ones. This oceanfront restaurant offers engaging views of the marsh and boats, so you can chat about the watercraft as you wait for your food. The “First Mates” kid’s menu includes fried fish bites, fried shrimp, chicken strips, hot dogs, and grilled cheese. All kid’s baskets come with fries, hush puppies, and a drink, so no one will leave hungry.
Adults can enjoy seafood baskets featuring shrimp, scallops, clam strips, oysters, deviled crabs, calamari, haddock, crab cakes, and more. All come with fries, slaw, hush puppies, and your choice of sauce. This is the perfect stop when you’re craving satisfying seafood in a welcoming, homey restaurant.
Mama’s Pizza & Grill
Few things are as kid-friendly as pizza and pasta, which is what makes Mama’s Pizza & Grill such a winner. If you’re after a family pizza, you’ll find an abundance of options, including New York-style and Chicago-style pizzas. Combine all the kids’ favorites in one decadent dish with the baked mac and cheese pizza or keep it classic with a pepperoni pizza. If you have adventurous eaters, you might even try options like the fruit pizza with ham, pineapple, and a hint of coconut.
Mama’s also has a kid’s menu that features chicken fingers, mac and cheese, sub sandwiches, spaghetti or ziti with marinara, and a giant meatball topped with marinara and a slice of mozzarella. Everyone in the family will love the dessert selection, which includes cannoli, chocolate cake, tres leches, zeppole, baklava cheesecake, tiramisu, and more. Fresh, delicious, and overflowing with flavor, all the food at Mama’s is made to please, bringing classic Italian hospitality to Florida.
Jerry’s Grille
At Jerry’s Grille, everything is made fresh, right down to the ice cream. This destination isn’t just kid-friendly, it’s pet-friendly too, so you can bring everyone in the family. High-definition TVs throughout the restaurant keep all the latest games on, so there’s something to entertain curious eyes as you wait for your food.
Everything on the kid’s menu comes with a drink and your choice of slaw or fries. Kids can choose from a hot dog, grilled cheese, fried shrimp, chicken tenders, 5 oz. burger, or homemade mac and cheese. Adults will enjoy a selection of wings, quesadillas, wraps, sandwiches, burgers, seafood baskets, and more.
Every meal just begs for a sweet finish here. Jerry’s specialty is the housemade banana nut bread with banana nut ice cream, topped with a butter pecan glaze, powdered sugar, and whipped cream. If you need enough for the family, this dessert is also sold by the loaf with a quart of housemade ice cream. Other options for your sweet tooth include an ice cream sundae, milkshake, housemade cobbler of the week, and warm brownie delight.
The Bearded Pig
The Bearded Pig is a mouthwatering BBQ joint that caters thoughtfully to everyone in the family. The flavorful meat selection includes brisket, pulled pork, turkey, sausage, chicken, beef rib, and spareribs. Pair these hearty picks with sides like mac and cheese, potato salad, slaw, baked beans, and collard greens for the essential Southern dining experience.
If your kids don’t like the regular menu, the kid’s menu offers chicken nuggets, hot dogs, and a BBQ sandwich with brisket, pulled pork, or turkey. All kid’s meals come with a drink and side. Dessert is a must-taste option with banana pudding, chocolate chip cookies, vanilla ice cream, and a Nutella brownie sundae on the menu.
Did we include your favorite family restaurant in Jacksonville? If we missed a great spot, contact our team at Keith Pierson Toyota and let us know so we can update our suggestions!
Avalon Vs Corolla
If you want to upgrade your Jacksonville, Florida, commute with a new sedan, the Toyota’s Avalon and Corolla models have a lot to offer. Their trim configurations and amenities are so many that you might find it challenging to sift through the many features of both vehicles. That’s why we’ve put together this comparison to help you better understand these exceptional cars and make an informed decision.
Curb Appeal
Toyota’s full-size sedan, Avalon, comes in six trim levels, three of which use gasoline power and the rest a hybrid powertrain. Every trim features an aggressive front fascia marked by sharp lines and signature grilles. LED reflector beam headlights and LED daytime running lights also come on every variant. Yet the XSE Nightshade Hybrid and the Touring offer stylish smoked chrome bezels.
A low, wide stance, side body contours, and 17-, 18-, or 19-inch alloy wheels in various styles give the Avalon its athletic profile. At the same time, a rear spoiler reinforces the elegance and performance of the rear fascia and its LED taillights.
The compact Corolla’s seven trims pop with sporty styling cues, from the aggressive front fascia — featuring black front grille with a sport mesh insert — to the low-profile 17- and 18-inch wheels. There are also subtle design differences across the board, though only one trim uses a hybrid powertrain. What’s more, The Corolla comes with LED headlights and LED accent lights, which let you see and be seen.
Corolla’s Apex draws on sport-inspired performance, while the Nightshade boasts black-out trim that turns heads along the boulevard. The top trim, XSE, comes with signature amenities such as a bronze body kit, black flow-form wheels, and a lowered, sport-tuned suspension.
Interior Comfort and Convenience
Slipping into the Avalon cabin, you’re enveloped in the ergonomic comfort of Toyota’s SofTex upholstery, a durable yet beautiful synthetic material. The top trim, Limited, comes with premium leather for a refined look and feel. Also, every Avalon has a leather-wrapped steering wheel with all your infotainment and cruise controls. Genuine aluminum and wood trim, ambient lighting, and heated and ventilated seats create a sophisticated ambiance.
In-vehicle tech runs through the 7-inch touch screen on the base model and a 9-inch touch screen on the upper trims. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth enable hands-free operations. Further, a 10-inch head-up display projects critical driving data onto the windshield before you. Two USB-A and two USB-C ports, plus a wireless charging pad, keep everyone’s devices connected and charged.
Inside the Corolla, you get premium cloth upholstery on the lower trims, SofTex upholstery on the middle trims, and premium leather seating on the top trims. In addition, a heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel and heated seats come standard on the higher trims and are available as part of a package option on the lower trims.
In-vehicle tech operates via the same 7-inch touch screen on the lower trims and an upgraded 8-inch touch screen on the middle and advanced trims. You also get Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth technology to sync your smartphones.
Performance
Under the Avalon’s hood, you have two engine options. The gas unit uses a 3.5-liter V-6 engine with dual overhead cams, 24 valves with dual injection, and variable valve timing technology. Toyota pairs this engine with their Direct-Shift 8-AT eight-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission. This powertrain puts out an impressive 301 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. And when fitted with this engine, the Avalon posts 22/31 city/highway mpg ratings.
Avalon’s hybrid powertrain combines a 2.5-liter Dynamic Force four-cylinder engine and dual overhead cams with 16 valves with direct injection and variable valve timing technology. Enhanced by the 88-kW electric motor, this unit produces 215 net hybrid system horsepower and achieves up to 44 miles per gallon.
The Corolla features three available engines. The base models have a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine with dual overhead cams and 16 valves with Valvematic technology. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission to produce 139 horsepower and 126 pound-feet of torque. When equipped with this four-cylinder, the Corolla gets 30 mpg and 38 mpg in the city and on the highway, respectively.
You can opt for the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with dual overhead cams and 16 valves with dual variable valve timing technology. Also, you have the option for a continuously variable transmission or a six-speed manual transmission. This powertrain puts out 169 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. You can expect your Corolla to clock 30 mpg if it uses this engine — an efficient return for any sedan.
The hybrid powertrain includes a 1.8-liter four-cylinder aluminum engine with dual overhead cams and 16 valves with variable valve timing technology. It also uses an 88-kW electric motor and an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission to supply 121 horsepower and 105 pound-feet of torque. That said, what it lacks in power, it makes up for with efficiency: A hybrid Corolla returns an incredible 53 mpg in the city.
Driver-Assist Technology
Your Avalon comes with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, a suite of driver-assist systems designed to help you drive safe. The suite includes pre-collision with pedestrian detection, full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control, blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and road sign assist.
These systems use radar and optical sensors to monitor the car’s surroundings, alerting you to potential hazards. In some cases, these systems will intervene with braking and steering to help you avoid a possible accident. Other times, they help you stay within marked lanes and keep you at a preset speed and distance while in traffic — protective measures to reduce driver fatigue.
In contrast, the Toyota Corolla sedans come with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, an earlier version of the suite described above. One significant change is that the blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert systems are only optional, not standard as on the Avalon.
We hope this article helped you better understand what makes the Avalon and Corolla such great vehicles. At Keith Pierson Toyota, we know what sedan drivers want. That’s why we stock an expansive inventory of Avalons and Corollas, all loaded with features you’ll love and at prices to fit any budget.
If you’re ready to elevate your Jacksonville commute, we invite you to browse our inventory online or stop by our dealership at any time. One of our friendly, professional staff will show you the different Avalon and Corolla sedans and let you take your favorite for a test drive.
Surround yourself with the sights, sounds, and scents of the holiday season in Jacksonville, Florida. Our guide to the best holiday activities, attractions, and events in the area will give you plenty of things to do with friends and family at this time of year.
Read the rest of this entry »Different Fluids in Cars
Much like your body has various vital fluids to keep you alive and running well, so does your car. Gasoline is one of the main ones most people know about, but other fluids are just as critical. Knowing what they are and how to check them is imperative to keeping your vehicle in tip-top shape. Taking your vehicle to a Jacksonville service department, such as Keith Pierson Toyota for routine maintenance, including checking the fluids in your vehicle, will prolong its life and improve performance.
Motor Oil
The second most well-known automotive fluid is motor oil. Motor oil keeps all the movable parts in your engine well-lubricated and reduces friction. Without gas, your vehicle doesn’t run, but without oil, the engine will be ruined. Getting oil changes within the recommended time and mileage is crucial as dirty, old oil does not function well, exposing your engine to unnecessary wear and tear.
To check your oil, find the dipstick labeled oil or with a picture of an oil can. Usually, this is located in the front of the engine but can be on the back too. Pull the dipstick out, wipe it clean, put it all the way back in and then remove it again. Look at the end of the dipstick for indicators on the bottom of the dipstick for the range of acceptable levels. Make sure the level of the oil marks on the dipstick is within the acceptable range.
If it’s below or very close to the low bottom line, you should add oil immediately. It could also mean your engine is burning oil or has an engine oil leak, both of which may indicate the need for maintenance.
Transmission Fluid
Transmission fluid is usually red or reddish and should be a thicker liquid. This fluid is responsible for keeping your gears well-lubricated, allowing for smooth shifting. Without it, or if it is past its usefulness, you could damage or ruin your transmission, resulting in a very costly repair. For most vehicles, checking the transmission fluid is similar to checking your oil. It will typically have its own dipstick, usually a different color than the oil dipstick.
Make sure the car is at the normal operating temperature on a level surface. While still running, remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, and reinsert it all the way. Remove the dipstick and check the level compared to the markings on it. If it’s low, add the requisite amount of fluid. If it’s discolored or has metal shavings in it, replacing the fluid or having it serviced by a mechanic is your best bet.
Brake Fluid
This light brown or yellowish liquid provides the hydraulic pressure needed to operate your brakes successfully. The reservoir is usually on top of the engine, towards the rear of the engine compartment. The canister that holds the brake fluid is typically on the driver’s side of the vehicle by the brake master cylinder. It will usually be labeled brake fluid or have an icon that indicates that it is the brake fluid canister.
To check brake fluid, remove the cap and make sure it’s about a half-inch from the cap. If it’s low, add until it gets to this level. Pay attention to the color as well. If it’s black, that indicates the fluid needs to be changed, while metal specks indicate issues with the braking system that need to be addressed.
Anti-freeze
The purpose of this bright green or bright yellow fluid is to keep your radiator from freezing up in the winter and overheating in the warmer months here in Jacksonville. To check this, you’ll need to find the radiator cap, which may read cooling system, or have the warning to be careful not to open when hot as the system is under pressure.
This one is as simple as making sure the fluid is full to the top. There are very different types of coolant that should not be mixed, so make sure you know what’s in your vehicle and, if adding to it, only add the same kind. Trust the professionals at Keith Pierson Toyota to take care of this for you to reduce the risk.
Power Steering Fluid
A vast majority of vehicles on the road today are controlled via power steering, thus requiring power steering fluid, typically reddish or clear in color. Again, this uses hydraulic pressure to help turn the wheels and needs power steering fluid to operate properly. The reservoir is can be found under the hood closer to or on the passenger side, although not always. The cap will usually say steering fluid right on it.
Power steering fluid can typically be checked by looking at the side of the opaque reservoir, which will have low and high indicators right on it. All you need to do is look at the side of the reservoir and make sure the fluid level falls within the acceptable range markings.
Air Conditioning Coolant
Probably more commonly referred to as Freon, this brightly colored fluid allows the air conditioning system to work. Living in Jacksonville, Florida requires working air conditioning in your vehicle. This is a dangerous fluid to work with, so it is probably better to leave this one up to the professionals at Keith Pierson Toyota.
To check your coolant, you’ll need a special tool that measures the pressure of the air conditioning system. You’ll find the low-pressure port, just a cover that screws on and off and then screw the pressure measuring gauge onto the port. If the pressure is low, add more according to the manufacturer’s instructions or those on the Freon can.
Windshield Wiper Fluid
While windshield wiper fluid may not be critical to the overall operation of your vehicle, it does serve the important purpose of keeping your lines of vision open. This one is typically easy to check and fill. It’ll usually be along the edge of the engine compartment and have a windshield wiper symbol on it. Simply remove the cover and add the fluid until full.
Maintaining proper fluid levels and quality is essential to the longevity of your vehicle. Always make sure that the fluids are at the appropriate level and in the proper condition to best service your engine. If not, add to them or replace them, either yourself or at a mechanic, to keep your engine running in peak condition. Visit the service team at Keith Pierson Toyota to have your fluids checked or for any other routine maintenance needs. Give us a call at 888-461-3879 or schedule our services online.
ToyotaCare
When you buy a new Toyota, you get a high-quality, reliable vehicle. You also get peace of mind and confidence on the road. You can enjoy your new car knowing your vehicle’s routine maintenance is covered for two years or 25,000 miles. You can also rest assured that you’ll have help in the event of a roadside emergency. Visit Keith Pierson Toyota here in Jacksonville, Florida, and test-drive the Toyota lineup of cars, minivans, trucks, crossovers, and sport utility vehicles. Know that ToyotaCare is here for you no matter which vehicle you choose.
What Is ToyotaCare?
When you buy a new Toyota, you get a three-year/36,000-mile warranty that covers everything except normal wear and tear and routine maintenance. Toyota owners also get impressive ToyotaCare coverage, a comprehensive no-cost maintenance plan for every new vehicle. It covers all manufacturer-recommended routine maintenance tasks for the first two years or 25,000 miles in service, depending on which milestone you hit first. Maintenance tasks under ToyotaCare take place every 5,000 miles or six months. Here are the routine services Toyota recommends for your new vehicle in the basic ToyotaCare coverage:
- At six months or 5,000 miles, technicians perform a tire rotation, comprehensive inspections, and fluid adjustments on all systems.
- At 12 months or 10,000 miles, your vehicle gets an oil change, tire rotation, inspections, and a fluid adjustment.
- At 18 months or 15,000 miles, the appointment includes tire rotation, inspections, and a fluid adjustment.
- At 24 months or 20,000 to 25,000 miles, you get an oil change, tire rotation, inspections, and a fluid adjustment.
For your confidence and peace of mind, all work under the ToyotaCare plan is performed by Toyota-trained professionals and includes genuine Toyota parts. These practices ensure your warranty coverage stays in place and the manufacturer stands behind the work. ToyotaCare will even send you friendly maintenance reminders so you can schedule your service appointments and keep your vehicle up to date.
When you have your car maintained at a Toyota Service Center like ours here at Keith Pierson Toyota, we keep a complete service history on your vehicle. The records are available in the owner’s section of the Toyota website if you ever need them. Having an easily accessible record of your car’s maintenance history is also important if you ever decide to sell the vehicle.
ToyotaCare doesn’t stop at covering routine maintenance. You also get 24-hour, seven-days-a-week Roadside Assistance service for the first two years, no matter how many miles you drive. Help is at your fingertips in any of these vehicle emergencies:
- Jump-starting a dead battery.
- Getting locked out of your car.
- Running out of gas.
- Replacing a flat tire with your inflated spare.
- Towing your vehicle to the nearest Toyota dealership or the dealership of your choice within 25 miles of the nearest Toyota dealership.
- Winching your vehicle out of a ditch, mud, sand, or snow back onto the road.
Though your new Toyota is one of the most reliable vehicles on the road, some things are beyond your control. Road conditions, human error, weather, and other factors can still leave you stranded. If that happens, your ToyotaCare plan has you covered every day of the calendar, around the clock. Your ToyotaCare roadside assistance is good even if another member of your family is driving the car, so the peace of mind extends to times when other family members are behind the wheel. Ask any parent of a teenage driver, and they’ll tell you the value of this roadside coverage.
What Is ToyotaCare Plus?
If your car has fewer than 31,000 miles and is within 37 months of the date it first went into service, you have the option to purchase ToyotaCare Plus. This plan includes coverage for the same maintenance tasks and roadside assistance as ToyotaCare but for the first four years or 45,000 miles from the date the vehicle goes into service. ToyotaCare Plus also includes additional maintenance tasks such as transmission, driveshaft, and fuel line system inspections every 15,000 miles starting at 30,000.
You have several options to choose from when you purchase your ToyotaCare Plus plan, so you can select one that suits your driving habits. The Federal Highway Administration estimates men drive 17,000 miles each year and women drive about 10,000. If your driving habits put you on the higher side of those averages, you might want to choose a ToyotaCare Plus plan with a higher mileage level. If you don’t drive that much, a plan with a lower mileage limit might be just fine.
At Keith Pierson Toyota, we can help you assess your driving patterns to choose the best plan for you and your new vehicle. These include:
- Three years and either 35,000 or 45,000 miles.
- Four years and either 45,000 or 60,000 miles.
- Five years and either 60,000 or 75,000 miles.
Why Do You Need ToyotaCare?
While most new car manufacturers provide warranties on their vehicles, it’s essential to understand those warranties cover defects in materials or workmanship and not routine maintenance. ToyotaCare takes your car’s warranty protection an extra step by covering free maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles and providing roadside assistance. ToyotaCare Plus can add years and miles to that protection at a reasonable price.
How Keith Pierson Toyota Can Help ToyotaCare Clients
Here at Keith Pierson Toyota’s service department, we’re happy to take care of ToyotaCare clients, no matter where you purchased your vehicle. Our friendly and knowledgeable team has all the training necessary to use the latest technology to service your car. We pride ourselves on technical competency and outstanding customer service.
At Keith Pierson Toyota, we want you to enjoy every minute and mile of driving your car, so whether you’re getting routine care or significant repairs, we make every effort to get you back on the road quickly and efficiently. Service is available seven days a week with hours to accommodate your busy schedule. Contact us today, and let us show you what it’s like to get world-class Toyota service in Jacksonville.
Best Museums in Jacksonville, Florida
The museums in Jacksonville display the very essence of the city’s citizens and rich culture. Visit any of the Jacksonville Museums to explore the city’s cultural, scientific, artistic, and historical sites. The Museum of Science allows you to explore and engage with the wonders of science. If you are with your kids, you can take them to the Natural History Museum or at the Children’s Museum. Check out some of the following museums in Jacksonville.
Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens
Established in 1958, the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens is located in the historic Riverside neighborhood and is a favorite among the locals. It is the largest fine arts museum in Northeast Florida and is home to over 5,000 works. The art collection consists of objects that are over 400 years old as well as modern ones.
Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville (MOCA)
The Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville is home to art that dates back to 1960 as well as contemporary art. It is one of the largest contemporary museums in the southeastern United States and displays art by both local and international artists. The museum mostly focuses on permanent collection galleries and includes the works of Joan Mitchell, Hans Hoffman, James Rosenquist, and other contemporary artists. The art collection in MOCA includes printmaking, painting, photography, and sculpture.
Museum of Science & History (MOSH)
Located in downtown Southbank, the Museum of Science & History brings thousands of years of Northeast Florida’s history to life. It features interactive exhibits and the Bryan-Gooding Planetarium. Other exhibits include the Florida Naturalist’s Center, Currents of Time, and Atlantic Tails. Regardless of your age or interest, there is something to see and explore at MOSH.
Museum of Southern History
The Museum of Southern History displays several aspects of United States history. It covers the history of Native Americans, the Civil War, the American Revolution, and modern times. Items on display include the original Battle Flag of the 19th Georgia Infantry, old weapons, and a portrait of Thomas Jonathan. If you are interested in history, this is the perfect museum to visit while in Jacksonville.
Mandarin Museum & Historical Society
Located in the Walter Jones Historical Park, the Mandarin Museum & Historical Society shares the culture and history of the Mandarin community. It does this by providing engaging programs that inspire, entertain, and educate. You can learn a lot about Mandarin history here as well as at the 1898 St. Joseph’s Mission Schoolhouse for American children.
Beaches Museum
Despite your age or interest, the Beaches Museum has something for all. The museum offers a diverse range of exciting history and culture of the area. If you want to know more about Jacksonville’s beach communities, including their past, present, and future, you can do so at this museum. You can also view the “Celebrate & Explore Our Wilderness Parks” exhibit. The exhibit features video footage by Tom Scifanella, paintings by Kathy Stark, and images taken by photographer Dickey.
Clara White Mission
The Clara White Mission Museum was founded in 1904. The founder, Clara English White, was a former slave who was inspired to advocate for the poor in LaVilla, Jacksonville. The museum commemorates Clara White and her daughter Dr. Eartha White. It showcases the lives and careers of the two women and their impact on the Jacksonville community.
Ritz Theatre and Museum
The Ritz Theatre and Museum is considered the “center for African American culture and heritage” in Florida. Located in the LaVilla neighborhood, the museum is home to extensive African American History and a theater that hosts special events every week.
Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum
The Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum is one of the many Karpeles Libraries across the country. It is located in the historic district of Springfield and holds some important original manuscript documents. The collection includes science, literature, political history, religion, and art. The exhibits are created based on a particular theme and are changed every four months. Additionally, the museum doubles as an art gallery and showcases some of the finest local and regional artworks.
Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve would be the perfect place to spend time. Get the chance to explore the historic sites of the preserve. You can also go on a hike on one of the trails. The historic sites and trials offer more than a walk in the woods, as you will be able to learn about a few historical facts. You can move through the Kingsley Plantation or hike through less popular sites like the foundation of Willie Browne’s home. Willie was the last private owner of the preserve’s Theodore Roosevelt area.
Jacksonville Fire Museum
Learn more about Jacksonville’s Fire and Rescue Department by visiting the Jacksonville Fire Museum. The museum provides visitors with an educational link between the past and present. It is also an ideal place for those who are interested in learning more about the city’s history and is home to some rare artifacts.
St. Augustine Shipwreck Museum & Gallery
If you love pirate tales, you are likely to enjoy some time at St. Augustine Shipwreck Museum & Gallery. The museum preserves rich exhibits of the maritime shipwreck history of Florida, the Caribbean, and the world. You will find some of the world’s most famous and interesting sea adventures and wrecks. It is home to artifacts from the coast of Florida and across the globe including, the R.M.S Titanic, the S.S Central America, and the Nuestra Senora de Atocha.
At Keith Pierson Toyota, we love to take some time off and enjoy the beauty of our city. Here, we have mentioned some of the top museums in Jacksonville. You can check them out whenever you have some free time or want to spend some time out with your family. If you feel that we have left anything out, contact us and let us know and we’ll add it to our list. In the meantime, browse our inventory for the best deals on your next Toyota vehicle.
Best Breweries in Jacksonville, Florida
Jacksonville’s beer industry has continued to grow over the years. New taprooms are opening and there is a promising future of more opening soon. With new breweries sprouting, the laid-back community of Jacksonville, Florida, has many interesting beer types to enjoy. If you ever find yourself in this beach community, try a beer from one of the breweries listed below.
Top 12 Breweries in Jacksonville, Florida
Bold City Brewery
Bold City Brewery has two locations: East Bay Street in downtown Jacksonville and Roselle Street. The brewery was started by a mother-son duo, Susan and Brian Miller. This was the first Jacksonville’s locally owned brewery back in 2002. The brewery is named after the city’s nickname, the Bold City, and has boldly established itself as an iconic brewery in the area. The brewery is famous for its Duke’s Cold Nose Brown Ale and Killer Whale Cream Ale.
Wicked Barley Brewing Company
If you are looking for a social atmosphere, head to Wicked Barley. The brewery offers exciting events, a taproom, a full-service restaurant, a beer garden, a patio, and a boat dock. In 2017, they were voted the Best Pub in Florida by Best Florida Beer. Some of their beers you want to try are Coconut Lager, Big Red Monkey, and Kalkaska.
In addition to the expansive tap list, the pub also features a full gastropub-style kitchen. It serves a from-scratch menu that includes burgers, appetizers, sandwiches, salads, and a kids’ menu. Whether you are a beginner or a craft beer connoisseur, you will find something to enjoy at the Wicked Barley Brewing Company.
Aardwolf Brewing Company
Located in San Marco, Aardwolf Brewing Co. is one of the newest breweries in Jacksonville. The company won the hearts of many locals within two years of opening. Its Belgium Pale Ale has won the bronze at the Great American Beer Festival in the Pale Ale category. You can expect something great from its barrel-aging and sour program.
Intuition Ale Works
With its location on East Bay Street in downtown Jacksonville, the Intuition Ale Works is one of the many breweries known for offering great beer. The brewery also features a restaurant, The Kitchen at Intuition, that serves delicious foods. It is also a family-friendly brewery so you can bring your kids along for a fun day out. Make sure that you try their signature Tilted Star milk stout or the Gotta Love It pilsner.
Fishweir Brewing
One of Jacksonville’s newest breweries and the closest to town, Fishweir Brewing is a place that you will love. It is one of the most aesthetically pleasing breweries in the area. It features a patio, patterned tile behind the bar, and lettered tap handles spelling out the name Fishweir. The beers sold at this brewhouse are exquisite and exhibit a degree of craftsmanship that you will not see in most newly opened breweries. Try their Big Fishweir IPA or the Lazy River pilsner when you get there.
Veterans United Craft Brewery
Located on the South side of Jacksonville, Veteran United Craft Brewery is known for its variety of beers. It is famous for Buzzin’ Bee Honey Rye Wheat, Scout DOG 44, HopBanshee IPA, and Ranging Blonde Ale. The brewery is one of the few that sells canned beer in the region, making it easy to enjoy craft beer outdoors.
King Maker Brewing
King Maker brewing is located in the historic King Street District of Kingsville. It features both outdoor and indoor seating. Additionally, it has a three-barrel system, 18 taps, and a rotating tap list with funky small batches. It is a dog-friendly place, so you can bring your furry friends.
Hyperion Brewing Company
The first nano-brewery in Jacksonville, Hyperion Brewing Company is located in Springfield. The brewery features a unique taproom experience, which features an open area taproom with a calm, neighborhood atmosphere. They also offer a large fenced beer garden with yard seating and lawn games. It has 15 taps and hosts the Big Jim 15 beer ultimate flight, where guests can try every beer on tap.
Hoptinger Beer Garden and Sausage House
If you like staying out late and are looking for a place to enjoy a beer, the Hoptinger Beer Garden and Sausage House is open until 2 a.m. It offers 60 different taps along with a delicious food menu featuring great night delicacies.
Tabula Rasa Brewing
For great tasting beer, Tabula Rasa is the place to be. They focus on producing high-quality, great-tasting beer for beer lovers. Located in the heart of the rail yard district, the brewery features a taproom with a calm atmosphere so you can enjoy a beer with family and friends.
Jacksonville’s Anheuser Busch Brewery
Opened in 1969, Jacksonville’s Anheuser Busch Brewery has been in operation for over five decades. The brewery delivers most of its beer in the states of Alabama, Florida, and Georgia. It is one of the largest employers in Duval county and has a large collection of beers, including Bud Light Platinum, Bud Light, Budweiser, Busch Light, Busch, Michelob AmberBock, Michelob Light, American Red, and many others.
Ruby Beach Brewing
Located in downtown Jacksonville, Ruby Beach Brewing is popular for its lagers and sours. It also produces IPAs and just about any other type of beer. The brewery has a traditional taproom, a private upstairs event space, and a beer garden. With a convenient location close to facilities like the TIAA Bank Field, The Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville, and Florida Theatre, the brewery is a good place to grab a beer after a game or a movie.
That’s our list of some of the top breweries in Jacksonville. The options are extensive, but our experts have highlighted some of the most popular. Is there a spot that we have left out? Let us know and we can have it included in the list.
Our experts at Keith Pierson Toyota would wish to make your experience unforgettable. Drive to your favorite brewery in style with a new or used Toyota from our dealership.
What is the Best Car for A College Graduate?
We congratulate students upon graduating college. You’ve put in years of study and earned your degree in a field you enjoy. So what comes next for the college graduate? You can say goodbye to the dorm and campus life and begin the next phase of your life. That means you must find your own place to live, which necessitates a job to pay for it, and of course, now you need a car to get you to and from work. Welcome to adulthood.
Keith Pierson Toyota understands what the next few years represent to recent college graduates living in Jacksonville, Florida. So many former students have loans to pay off, jobs to find, and, yes, cars to buy to make adult life possible. So, we’ve created this list of the best cars for college graduates to help you make an informed decision that enables you to build a solid foundation for the next decade or longer.
Should You Buy a New or Used Car?
New graduates ask this question a lot, and there’s no right or wrong answer. A new car offers you more long-term reliability. You get to drive the vehicle in its peak condition, without any prior wear and tear, and with the protection of a manufacturer’s warranty. Your new life requires a dependable car. If you’d rather not worry about repairs and maintenance, buying a new car makes sense. In addition, Keith Pierson Toyota currently offers a $500 rebate to college graduates.
New cars cost more money, though. They also depreciate faster, making them less valuable in the short term. So if you plan on upgrading your vehicle in the next three years, you could end up underwater on a new car loan when you go to trade it in.
In that case buying used can save you money. New cars depreciate the most during the first three years of ownership. Some brands will lose as much as 40% while Toyota models depreciate around 20%-25% over the same timeframe.
Purchasing a used car that’s beyond this depreciation point will save you money at the time of purchase. After a few years, the used car will hold its value better, making it worth more when it’s time to trade-in and trade up. So, when shopping for cars, buying a new or used Toyota makes more sense than other brands.
Many dealerships sell extended warranties on used cars, protecting you against future breakdowns and repairs. For example, at Keith Pierson Toyota, we have an expansive inventory of used Toyota models. Also, we offer a lifetime warranty on all of our used cars that have less than 50,000 miles and are under 10 years old. You won’t find coverage like that at other dealerships in Jacksonville.
Features To Look For in a Used Vehicle
As a recent college graduate, are not likely to have an extensive driving history. However, experience comes with time, and that’s okay. Statistics show that drivers under the age of 25 are three times more likely to be involved in a crash than older drivers. Therefore, you should look for a safe vehicle. Car safety comes in many forms, such as seat restraint systems, air bags, crash crumple zones, and steel cabin cages.
Modern vehicles have advanced mechanical systems like anti-lock braking systems that help reduce the risk of an accident. In addition, many cars produced in the last 5-10 years have driver-assist technologies that alert drivers to certain hazards and help mitigate or prevent crashes.
New graduates should be concerned with fuel economy as well. After all, you’ve got student loans to pay off along with rent, utilities, and other bills you didn’t have while in school. Why pay more in gas if you can avoid it? In addition, most young people connect with the world through technology. Recent graduates have social media accounts on multiple platforms, use various audio and video streaming services, and have spent most of their lives searching the web for answers. In this scenario, finding a car with the latest connectivity makes sense.
Toyota Prius
The Toyota Prius may not win the Indy 500, but when it comes to safe, reliable, economic performance, the Prius checks all the boxes. You can find a used Prius for around $15,000 that has the advanced safety and driver-assist features to keep you safe and the in-vehicle tech to keep you connected. Plus, the Prius’ hybrid powertrain can get you up to 50 mpg, which will keep your fuel costs low.
A new Toyota Prius starts at around $24,000, keeping your monthly payments affordable when you decide to take out a loan. The latest hybrid range and charging technology can turn your daily commute entirely electric, too, saving you even more money. Cutting-edge connectivity and driver-assist systems make the Prius a great option for new graduates.
Honda Civic
Honda has long had a reputation for building dependable vehicles, and the Civic lives up to the brand expectation. You can find a late-model Honda Civic for under $20,000 if you’d rather buy a used model. While the Civic is not as inexpensive as the Prius, you will still have an affordable monthly payment. Also, the Civic comes in a gas-only powertrain, which is the most significant difference between the Civic and the Prius. If you want a new Civic, be prepared to pay around $25,000, but as Honda doesn’t offer a hybrid Civic model, you won’t see the same fuel economy.
Toyota Corolla
The Corolla comes in both sedan and hatchback models. In either case, you can find a late-model Corolla with low mileage for under $20,000 that has modern technology, driver-assist systems, and over 40 mpg on the highway. For instance, Keith Pierson Toyota has several Corolla models from 2017 and newer with less than 50,000 miles and priced under $20,000.
As you take this next important step in life, you need a vehicle you can rely on. At Keith Pierson Toyota, we have a vast inventory of new and late-model Toyota cars, trucks, and SUVs with the latest tech, safety features, and comfortable amenities that fit your budget and lifestyle. In addition, we have many other brands available in our used inventory that make sense for new graduates.
We encourage you to browse our inventory online. Then, when you’re ready for a personalized demonstration, you can visit our dealership on Youngerman Circle. One of our friendly, professional staff will show you around and let you test drive your favorite Toyota model.
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