2013 Honda Accord Blogger Ride and Drive

In honor of the ninth-generation Accord, bloggers gathered in
Santa Barbara to experience how the all-new vehicle could suit their busy lives. Watch what they have to say!

A Peek at 2014: Honda Accord Plug-In Hybrid

The usual order of things in the auto industry dictates that conventional, high-volume cars come first and niche products like hybrids come a distant second if they come at all.

Honda is bucking the trend by preparing to roll out a plug-in-hybrid version of its redesigned Accord sedan early next year, just a few months after the bread-and-butter gasoline-powered model goes on sale. A standard hybrid will follow next summer. The moves reflect the growing importance of hybrids in the U.S. market — and Honda’s desire to trump the Prius hybrids built by its nemesis Toyota Motors Corp.

I have yet to drive the regular Accord, so the plug-in was my first experience with the redesigned model. Because the car ran for just over 12 miles on electric power alone, I had an opportunity to test its “NVH,” which is autospeak for noise, vibration and harshness. These are all bad things in the car business — some of which have plagued Honda for years.

Noise from mechanical systems, wind and tires is a common complaint from Honda drivers. Compared with the top-selling Toyota Camry, the Accord has always been a bit buzzy. It drives some motorists to distraction — and, presumably, to other brands.

What stood out with the plug-in was its near-silent running in local driving and on the highway. Even without the engine masking other sounds, I didn’t notice the usual racket from wind or tires. Indeed, the car was so quiet that the engine caused a major disturbance when it kicked in. This suggests other versions will also be quieter than before.

Still, compared with other hybrids, plug-in or not, the Accord felt smoother and more solid, with the overall feel of a more-expensive car. Most of my drives were fairly short and didn’t require much use of the gasoline engines, which also kicks in for heavy acceleration. So my fuel economy was well over 100 miles per gallon for every outing.

This Accord plug-in could be a breakthrough among non-Prius hybrids. Honda has not released a price yet, but if it isn’t too steep the plug-in could convince many drivers to take the leap into hybrids.

 

Courtesy of blogs.wsj.com

Toyota Care: Caring For You And Your Car

Just as we all change our clocks to “fall back,” and check the batteries in our smoke detectors, Fall is a good time to ensure our vehicles will carry us safely and dependably through another winter.

Here are the main things that are good to check this time of year:

Oil – Are you on track with your vehicle’s recommended oil change schedule? The cooler weather conditions can mean longer running times for a car’s engine due to prolonged idling while waiting for the vehicle to ‘warm up.’ Let’s face it, who likes sitting in a cold car?

Coolant – does your engine cooling system need to be checked? Many newer cars have lifetime fluid systems, but if you’ve had to have any repairs done that required “breaking the seal” you should have your system checked periodically to be sure all is well.

Windshield Washers – do you have plenty of fresh washer fluid to handle the season’s heavier usage, and are your wiper blades up to the demands of daily use? This is something you can check for yourself if you wish.
To check the condition of your washer fluid, simply remove the cap from the washer fluid reservoir and look down into it. If the fluid is cloudy or has visible debris in it, you will want to change it out right away. If it is transparent and the proper color just fill to the recommended level with the manufacturer approved fluid.
To check your wiper blades, examine for visible dry rot, cracks, splits or potential tears. Change if needed.

Tires – do your tires have good tread depth, and are they free of signs of wear? The wet conditions this time of year require good tires for maximum traction on wet roads. Since many signs of wear aren’t easily visible on a car parked in a garage or driveway, we’d be happy to check your tires for you.

Shocks and Struts – in addition to good tires, healthy shocks and struts are needed to maximize traction neccessary for safe driving in our soggy season.

Brakes – do you know if your braking system is ready for the abundant Eugene sunshine? Does your car take a little longer to stop? Do you feel a slight pull to one side or a wobble in your seat or steering wheel when you brake suddenly? Do you hear any squeal or squeak when braking?
Sometimes the squeak is due to the accumulation of brake pad ‘dust.’ This is normal for many vehicles. Just hose out your wheels as thoroughly as you can. (It’s best to allow to dry before driving.) If that remedies the squeak, good. If not, or you have any questions about your braking system’s performance, just bring your vehicle in and we’ll be happy to check things out for you.

Battery – more batteries fail in cold weather than any other time of year. It takes more power to start a cold engine, and cold also decreases the available cranking power the battery has available. Batteries don’t always die slowly. They can fail without warning, too. One customer’s car started normally one morning, then five hours later, the battery was completely dead. No lights were left on, etc. The battery, still under warranty, simply died.

Seals, Hoses and Belts – these are things that are usually tough to check yourself. An obvious sign of failing seals, hoses or belts is a leak or a squeak (in the case of a worn belt), but not always. A broken seal, hose or belt usually means you are stuck wherever you are when it happens. So, to prevent being stranded on a wet road a seasonal inspection of your belts, hoses and seals can help make sure you make it through the winter problem-free.

Headlights – are they pointing straight ahead like the should, and are they as bright as they ought to be? Do you have any dimmed or burned out bulbs? Is there condensation inside the headlamp housing? These are all indicators that your headlamps could need a little work to perform at their peak. After all, you’ll be depending on them more during the wetter, darker days and nights ahead."

 

Courtesy of AbsoluteAuto.org

The all-new 2013 Honda Accord Commercial -- "We Know You"

Introducing the more advanced, more sophisticated all-new 2013 Honda Accord. Check it out here http://automobiles.honda.com/accord-sedan

Come in for a test drive today!

Our certified pre-owned vehicles will be sure to make both your need for speed and your wallet smile!

2013 Honda Insight Hybrid Combines Adanced Technology and Exceptional Fuel Efficiency in U.S.'s Most Affordadble Hybrid

The 2013 Honda Insight provides a roomy interior, versatile hatchback design, fun-to-drive nature and an award-winning low cost of ownership. The Honda Insight received a 2012 Total Cost of Ownership Award from Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com, with a key contributor being the 5-door Insight's impressive city/highway/combined EPA fuel economy rating of 41/44/42 mpg.

After extensive changes for 2012 including updated exterior styling, an enhanced interior, additional features on selected models, and an EPA fuel economy-rating improvement, the Insight continues unchanged for 2013. The 2013 Honda Insight remains the most affordable hybrid for sale in the U.S., and pricing is unchanged for 2013, starting at $18,500. The 2013 Insight goes on sale September 18.

The 2013 Insight is offered in three models. The value-oriented base model is simply designated as Insight, and is well equipped with a 160-watt audio system, automatic climate control, power windows, and more. The Insight LX adds a USB audio interface, cruise control, armrest console, floor mats, security system and steering-wheel mounted audio controls. The Insight EX adds alloy wheels, six-speaker audio system, heated side mirrors with integrated turn signals, Bluetooth^® HandsFreeLink^®, automatic headlights and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The Insight EX is also available with the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System⁴ with voice recognition and rearview camera.

Powertrain A Honda Integrated Motor Assist™ (IMA™) system powers the Insight. Comprised of a 1.3-liter i‑VTEC^® gasoline 4-cylinder engine and a 10-kilowatt electric motor, the combination develops 98 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 123 lb-ft. of torque at 1000-1700 rpm. To maximize fuel efficiency, friction-reducing measures are used throughout the engine and the transmission.

Fully automatic in operation, the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is an advanced unit that substitutes the gears found in more traditional transmissions and replaces them with a metal push-belt running between a pair of variable-width pulleys. Combined with the Drive-by-Wire™ throttle system, the CVT constantly adjusts to provide the most efficient drive ratio possible depending on torque load. Honda's CVT provides better fuel efficiency and acceleration when compared to a conventional transmission. On EX models, the steering wheel includes paddle shifters, which allow manually shifting though a range of seven fixed ratios for a sporty driving experience.

The Insight comes equipped with fuel-efficiency enhancement technology called Eco Assist™. A push of the dash-mounted ECON button modifies throttle control, CVT operation, idle-stop duration, air conditioning and cruise-control operation (if so equipped) to minimize energy use and increase fuel efficiency. A sophisticated feedback system uses ambient color behind the speedometer to indicate overall driving efficiency. An Eco Display provides feedback on braking and acceleration. Plus, Eco Score provides ongoing support of an efficient driving style.

Body The Insight was given significant updates for the 2012 model year, including a more distinctive grille design with a blue accent bar representing the Insight's high-tech hybrid identity. To improve aerodynamic performance, the strakes ahead of the front wheels were extended by 0.4 inches to better direct air around the front tires. The shape of the engine bay underbody cover was also fine-tuned, and air diffusers were added under the rear bumper to smooth airflow behind the vehicle. The changes combined to net a 2-percent increase in aerodynamic performance.

Chassis The Insight rides on MacPherson strut front suspension, combined with a torsion-beam rear suspension that helps maximize interior space. Electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion power steering (EPS) offers predictable and linear steering feel, while also saving fuel compared to traditional hydraulic systems that put a greater load on the engine. With its 36.1-foot turning diameter, the Insight offers good maneuverability in congested urban settings. Insight and Insight LX models have 15-inch stamped-steel wheels with wheel covers and the Insight EX has 15-inch alloy wheels.

Interior The Insight's roomy interior offers comfortable seating for up to five passengers. Versatility is a key Insight strong point, and the 60/40 split rear seatbacks fold down to create a large 31.5 cubic-foot cargo space and make it easy to mix passengers and cargo.

Advanced instrumentation gives the Insight an upscale look, and provides the driver with key information at a glance. A large digital speed display is positioned high in the instrument cluster, close to the driver's sightline and easy to see. The convenient Multi-Information Display (MID) allows quick access to a range of useful information with convenient steering-wheel mounted controls. Automatic climate control is standard on all grades. The Insight LX has premium seat fabric, while the Insight EX is upholstered with a combination of synthetic leather and premium fabric.

Available on Insight EX models, the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with voice recognition⁴ includes a rearview camera and provides routing and guidance to individual addresses and more than 7-million points of interest within the continental United States. With its 16-GB memory system, it offers fast route calculation and includes FM traffic, a subscription-free service that alerts drivers to traffic conditions.

Safety Standard safety features on all Insight models include dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags, front-side airbags with a passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS), side-curtain airbag system, anti-lock brakes with electronic brake distribution (EBD), driver's and front-passenger's active head restraints, and a front body structure designed to help mitigate pedestrian injuries. The Insight also features Honda's Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, which provides improved occupant protection and crash compatibility between vehicles of different sizes and ride heights in frontal crashes.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named the Insight a "2012 Top Safety Pick." IIHS rates vehicles on performance in front and side crash tests, a rollover test, and evaluations of seat/head restraints for protection against neck injuries in rear impacts. To earn a 2012 Top Safety Pick rating, a vehicle must have good results (the highest possible) in all four Institute tests.

Manufacturing and Awards The Insight is manufactured by Honda in Suzuka, Japan. Though the Insight features advanced hybrid technology, that doesn't mean it takes a lot of money to buy or maintain one. The Honda Insight received a 2012 Total Cost of Ownership Award from Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com. With its low starting price, excellent fuel mileage and exceptional Honda reliability, the Insight is a great value.

 

Courtesy of American Honda Co., Inc. via The Sacramento Bee

Your Monday Maintenance Tip: Car Starter Problems

A car's starter is one of its more important engine components. It is a small electric motor that engages the engine when the driver turns the key. Once the engine begins to run, the starter disengages. A bad starter is just one possible reason an engine won't start, but there are symptoms that can help pinpoint a problem with a starter.

Clicking

• One of the most common symptoms of a bad starter is a clicking noise when turning the key to the "on" position. The clicking comes from under the hood and should be clearly audible since the engine won't even begin to turn over. If the engine does begin to turn over but never starts or if there are multiple clicks until the driver releases the key, the starter is actually functioning and the problem is elsewhere.

Headlights

• Headlights that are dim before trying to start the engine indicate a bad battery and the starter might be fine. However, when the lights shine at full brightness but become very dim when the driver turns the ignition key, the starter is almost certainly the problem. In this situation, the alternator is sending electricity to the starter, reducing that available for the lights. Even with the boost, the starter is unable to start the engine.

Smoke

• Smoke coming from under the hood can also indicate a faulty starter. This can occur when the starter motor burns out. If possible, open the hood and try to pinpoint the source. It may be possible to see smoke coming from the starter, which is in a metal cylinder mounted on the engine. Even once smoke clears, the starter may have a burnt smell.

Heat

• A faulty starter can cause battery terminals or wires to heat up. Like the dim headlight symptom, this comes from the alternator trying to send extra electricity to the starter. Always exercise care when handling battery terminals. If they cool down after the driver releases the key, the likelihood of a starter problem increases.

Courtesy of eHow.com

2013 Honda Accord

Overview

The all-new 2013 Accord Sedan and Accord Coupe mark the beginning of the ninth generation
of Honda’s best-selling midsize car. More luxurious, more sophisticated, better performing and
better equipped than any other model in the Accord’s 37-year history, the 2013 models
remarkably advance the sense of luxury and craftsmanship, vehicle dynamics and the range of
standard equipment to the highest levels in their class. Built in two locations in Ohio, launch of
the all-new models celebrates 30 continuous years of Accord production1 in the United States.
The exterior length and wheelbase of both the Accord Sedan and Coupe are slightly more
compact than the prior generation Accord while still providing improvements in key interior
dimensions including rear legroom and trunk volume. The result is a spacious all-new Accord
that boasts a sportier appearance, more responsive handling and improved driving dynamics.
From the tip of the front bumpers to the end of the exhaust finishers, literally nothing was left
unexamined when redesigning the Accord. This includes major elements like the unit-body,
sheet metal, glass and aerodynamics, along with interior features and electronic systems, the
engines and transmissions, the chassis components, and the many safety systems. Despite the
complete generational changes, however, the 2013 Accord Sedan and Coupe are still tightly
focused on providing the same long-established blend of unbeatable Honda safety and security,
value for money, fun-to-drive performance and handling, and passenger comfort and
convenience.
Fuel efficiency is also improved, with EPA estimated highway mileage ratings up to 36 mpg2 for
the 4-cylinder Accord and 34 mpg for the V-6 Accord Sedan. Not only does Accord advance the
state of the art in its segment, but the new Accord models also introduce a host of new technologies to Honda – while serving as the first vehicle to use Honda’s new Earth Dreams™
technology, which is dedicated to enhancing fuel efficiency and minimizing the company’s
environmental footprint. In early 2013, an all-new 2014 Accord Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) Sedan
will launch, followed by a conventional hybrid based on the same powertrain architecture in the
summer of 2013, bringing Honda levels of fun and efficiency to the hybrid segment.
In addition to the upcoming hybrid versions of the Accord, the all-new 2013 Accord Sedan 4-
door is available in LX, Sport, EX, EX-L, EX-L V6 and new Touring trim levels, while the 2-
door Accord Coupe comes in LX-S, EX, EX-L and EX-L V6 trim levels. Standard features on
the new Accord include Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® with audio streaming, USB/iPod®
integration, rearview camera and an audio/information screen and an Eco Assist™ driving
system. As in previous EX-trim Accords, a choice of fabric or leather seating upholstery is
available.
Other standard Accord features include dual-zone climate control, Pandora® internet radio
integration and an SMS text messaging function.1 Available features include a hard disc drive
(HDD)-based Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with Voice Recognition and FM
Traffic, and Adaptive Cruise Control. New visibility technologies include an expanded-view
driver’s mirror and Honda’s new LaneWatch™ feature – along with available features such as
LED headlights, daytime running lights (DRLs) and brake lights.
Safety advancements include a thoroughly revised Advanced Compatibility Engineering™
(ACE™) body structure and available Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Lane Departure
Warning (LDW) systems.
Two Earth Dreams™ powertrains are available initially, including an all-new 2.4-liter 4-cylinder
with Honda’s first use of direct injection in North America, and a 3.5-liter V-6 with revised
VTEC + VCM functions. In early 2013, the Accord lineup will see the first application of a new
Earth Dreams™ 2.0-liter 4-cylinder/two-motor plug-in hybrid system in the Accord PHEV
Sedan. The Honda two-motor hybrid system will operate continuously through three modes – allelectric,
gasoline-electric and direct-drive – to maximize fuel efficiency. The 2014 Accord Plug-
in Hybrid will also serve as the basis for a conventional hybrid version of the Accord Sedan,
which will join the Accord lineup in the summer of 2013. Accord 4-cylinder models will offer a
continuously variable transmission (CVT) that helps the Accord achieve outstanding fuelefficiency,
along with a new fun-to-shift 6-speed manual transmission on selected models. The
Accord’s V-6 engine offers a choice of a new 6-speed automatic or in the V-6 Coupe, a 6-speed
manual. The Accord Plug-in Hybrid will feature a new electric coupled CVT.

 

Courtesy of Honda

We are thrilled to hear from our loyal customers! Thank you for the rave review, Marikay.

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"I love this place. The mechanicsand service advicers are the best. The prices are fair and they have the best oil change deal I have ever had. I travel far even for the oil change. I have going here for over 8 years."

- Marikay

We appreciate our fantastic customer feedback! Thank you all for the kind words.

"We had a fantastic sales experience with Ernie at O'Hare Honda. We had purchased there in the past, but geared ourselves up for the typical "Car Salesman" routine. Ernie was great... personable, and it was nice to work with him."

- Lauren

"I had never taken any of cars I purchased back to the dealer for service until I bought my Honda CRV at O'hare Honda. Can't begin to tell you how much confidence I have in O'hare Honda in taking care of my care, There're just super."

- Bob

"I have been a customer of O'Hare Honda since 2004. The buying experience and supportive staff is only surpassed by their fantastic service department."

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Your Monday Maintenance Tip: Tailgating

It's nearly Fall, and odds are most of us are participating in, watching, or cheering on some kind of sports team. And for many fans, a game is not a game unless a tailgate precedes it. Taking it one step further... If you've got a 4WD Pick up Truck or SUV, chances are your vehicle serves as home base for your friends and family at the tailgate party!

Here are the best tips from professional tailgaters on how to throw the perfect tailgate party yourself, as well as tips to help you become the ultimate tailgater:

 

Make a Tailgating Checklist

To ensure nothing gets left at home, make a list of things you need to take to the tailgate party. Be sure to put your game tickets on the list too!

 

Have a Tailgating Theme

Think up a creative theme for your tailgate. If it's Thanksgiving, bring a turkey. If it's Christmas, bring a tree. Or, base your theme and decorations on the opponent. For example, you might have Cajun food against the Saints, Philly cheese steaks against the Eagles, or fish against the Dolphins.

 

Dress for the Occasion

Dress appropriately for several hours outdoors -- and be prepared for drastic temperature changes. And don't forget to wear comfortable shoes.

 

Show Some Tailgating Team Spirit

Show your team spirit... Wear team colors. Tailgaters are usually the biggest and best fans! After all, to become the ultimate tailgater, you'll want to stir up some tailgater's envy!

 

Timing is Everything

Get there early. You'll want to arrive 3-4 hours before game time to beat the crowd and claim your turf. And, plan to stay late so as to not miss a moment of the post-game enthusiasm.

 

Location, Location, Location

Set up your tailgate party near a grassy area, or bring a roll of Astroturf to set up at the end of the row -- for a more comfortable atmosphere with lots of room to socialize. Parking at the end of a row can also give you more partying space.

 

Tailgating in Parking Lots

Serious tailgaters choose a parking lot that has a view of the stadium if on-site parking is not available. Since the stadium is your Mecca, you need to be able to see it so you can bow to it occasionally.

 

Mark Your Spot At The Tailgating Party

A flag or team pennant on a tall pole helps people locate the party and makes a statement of team spirit.

 

Seating Arrangements

Don't worry about bringing chairs for everyone. Those who want to sit will bring their own chairs.

 

Generating Power

Serious tailgaters bring a small generator for powering a TV, stereo system or electric space heater during cold weather games.

 

Timing the Eats

Make sure your food is ready 1 to 2 hours before game time, so you have enough time to eat, clean up and find your seat in the stadium.

 

Put out the Fire

If you're using a charcoal grill, bring along extra water to douse the embers and a plastic garbage bag to put the cold coals in.

 

Be Smokey's Best Friend

Make sure that you have some way of extinguishing and throwing away your hot coals. Whatever you do, dispose of firewood or charcoal briquettes properly. Some stadiums have a designated place for hot ashes, but do not dump them in the grass or in trash bins.

Garbage In, Garbage Out

Bring your own lawn-size trash bags, because there never seem to be enough garbage receptacles on hand.

 

Courtesy of About.com

 

Soldier Field (Chicago Bears football)

There are a ton of places where you can park for Bears games. Tailgating is allowed on all the lots at Museum Campus and the Southwest Parking Facilities and on the upper level of the two-tiered Waldron Deck.

• Party set-ups may not exceed one parking space
• Deep fryers, tents and canopies are NOT ALLOWED in any lot

Fans recently complained about the NEW RULE enforced in 2008: NO TAILGATING DURING THE GAME. Also, you may tailgate in the parking lot BEFORE the game only if you have a valid ticket for the day’s event.

 

Courtesy of CultureMob.com

 

Tim Mings discovers the #FirstHonda ever made for the U.S.

Tim Mings has made a life of driving and restoring #N600 vehicles, the #FirstHonda ever made for the U.S.. Destined for the scrap heap over 40 years ago, Tim recently discovered #N600 serial number one. Get to know the man who holds the fate of one of Honda's most significant vehicles in his hands.

2013 Honda Accord: Watch and Save.

With the 2013 Accord’s standard Eco Assist™ system, it’s easy to learn how to drive more efficiently.

All 2013 Accord models incorporate the Honda Eco Assist™ system, an innovative technology that provides visual feedback to the driver to promote and confirm a more efficient driving style.

The system operates in essentially the same manner as on other Honda models, with “coaching” lights that illuminate in the instrument panel. One color signifies inefficient driving, while another color indicates a more efficient driving style is being used. The color changes gradually in response to overall driving style. Stay in the green and you can save more green at the gas station.

 

Courtesy of The Accord 100.