Thursday, November 29, 2012
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
"Great Buying Experience" Says Our Latest 5-Star Review!
- Sebastian
The Author of This Review Wants To Tell You Why He Chose Us For Three Vehicles In Five Years
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Honda Wins ALG's 2013 Residual Value Award
Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. received multiple 2013 Residual Value Awards from ALG, including the top honor of Best Mainstream Brand. Additionally, the 2013 Honda Accord, Honda Odyssey and Honda Fit each received individual Residual Value Awards as the highest ranked vehicles in their respective segments. As the leading provider of residual value information to the automotive industry, ALG's annual Residual Value Awards honor the vehicles in each industry segment that ALG predicts will retain
the highest percentage of their original price after a three-year period.
"Long-term value and reliability are both hallmarks of the Honda brand and we are honored to be recognized by ALG as the industry leader in these key qualities," said Michael Accavitti, vice president of national marketing operations at American Honda. "The Honda engineering philosophy not only delivers immediate value to our customers but will pay off in the long run as well." The Honda brand was named the Best Mainstream Brand for 2013, which recognizes the entire Honda lineup for exceptional vehicle quality, strong brand desirability, and long-term reliability. The all-new 2013 Accord ranked the highest in the ultra competitive Midsize Car category. The Honda Odyssey prevailed in the Best Minivan (MPV) category, retaining the top spot for the second consecutive year. The Honda Fit received a Residual Value Award for the fifth consecutive year in the Sub-Compact Car category. Since 2000, the Honda brand has earned 28 model awards and seven overall brand awards from ALG. "The Honda brand is a constant in ALG's Residual Value Award history, "said Larry Dominique, President of ALG. "With its smart, value-focused financial strategy, excellent perceived quality, and the all-new Accord, Honda has proven that it provides a compelling, high residual value package for consumers."
ALG determines the award winners through careful study of the competition in each segment, historical vehicle performance and industry trends. Vehicle quality, production levels relative to demand, as well as pricing strategies are among the key factors that affect ALG's residual value forecasts.
Monday, November 26, 2012
We're Happy To Hear Our Customers Are Happy!
- Jino
Monday Maintenance: The Test Drive
The test drive is one of the most important parts of buying a car. No matter what the car reviews say, if a vehicle doesn't fit you and your lifestyle, you're going to become dissatisfied with it long before that payment book is empty. The test drive is your opportunity to make your own personal assessment in a thorough, hands-on manner. If you're attentive to the details here, you can quickly tell whether or not you and the vehicle are meant for a long-term relationship.
The test drive is your opportunity to make your own personal assessment in a thorough, hands-on manner. When it comes to test driving a vehicle, the more time behind the wheel on various roads, the better. If you can arrange to rent a vehicle that's similar to the one you're considering, it could be worth the cost to be able to spend several days in it. Besides helping you become familiar with the vehicle, a rental car—without the new-car gloss—can also provide a reality check by showing you what yours might be like a year or more down the road. Most often, though, you'll have to make the most of the dealership test-drive. Here are some tips:
Test Drive Tips
- Don't rush. Allow yourself the time to do it properly. A car's true personality (the side you won't find on paper) really only shows up while driving. Also, make sure you can concentrate on the vehicle. If you feel self-conscious or distracted by the salesperson, politely ask him or her if you can drive alone.
- Take another person to the dealership. Your friend can give you a second opinion, take notes while you're driving, or run interference with the salesperson, if necessary.
- Start with the basics. How easy is it to get in and out of the vehicle? Some taller vehicles require a high step-up, which can be awkward for shorter people.
- Does the car fit you? Adjust the seat and steering wheel until you're comfortable. Seats vary quite a bit from one vehicle to the next. A seat that fits one person perfectly may be contoured wrong for someone else. Over the long run, if a seat isn't just right, it can become a real annoyance. Also, can you reach the pedals comfortably without being too close or too far from the steering wheel?
- How's the safety factor? Does the seatbelt fit comfortably across your body, without the shoulder belt cutting into your neck or riding too low? Are the belts adjustable? Is the headrest adjustable? Are there rear headrests?
- Are the controls conveniently located? With all the other distractions of driving, you don't need hard-to-operate controls. Are the dash switches easy to reach and the gauges easy to read? Are commonly used controls positioned high enough so that you don't have to divert your eyes too far from the road?
- Are there places to stow things? Can you fit CDs or cassettes in the center console? Are the cupholders secure and adjustable enough to fit a variety of sizes? Does the rear seat fold down for carrying larger loads in the trunk? On a minivan or sport-utility, can you open and close the rear door or liftgate easily?
- How well can you see in all directions? Are there blind spots that could pose vision problems? Can you see the front of the hood well enough to use it as a gauge when parking? Try pulling into one or more parking spaces to see how easy it is to park.
- Feel free to choose your own driving route so that you can take the car on a variety of road surfaces, from a high-speed highway to a patched-up back road. Is the ride smooth and comfortable or rough and bouncy? If you typically drive on hills, try to include them, too. A car that feels fine on level ground can run out of steam on hills.
- How's the driveability? Is the vehicle easy to steer in a crowded lot without being too vague on the highway? On the road, does the car feel responsive and controlled or sluggish and wallowy? Can you accelerate onto an interstate or freeway comfortably without holding up traffic?
- If you can find an empty stretch of road where you'll be safe, try applying the brakes hard a couple of times. How's the feel of the pedal? Do the brakes respond adequately in proportion to the amount of pressure you apply to the pedal?
- Listen as you drive. How quiet or noisy is the overall experience? Noise typically comes from the engine, wind, and the tires on the road. Also, listen for any squeaks or rattles. There shouldn't be any in a brand new car.
- If you'll be test driving several cars, try to do them in the same day so that your impressions are fresh. When evaluating the differences between vehicles, there's nothing more informative than being able to drive them back to back.
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Absolutely Blown Away!
"Absolutely blown away by our experience today. Saved $4k leasing a 2013 CRV with them vs competitor we actually really trusted. Did all the price discovery via email late Friday night, and they shockingly honored exactly what they said Saturday afternoon. Pricing was so competitive that we were ready for a big bait and switch upon arrival...which totally didn't happen! There is nothing we could complain about if we tried. Incredibly impressed. Great experience all around...and we love our new car!"
Monday, November 19, 2012
Help Your Odometer Reach 300,000 Miles
Five Maintenance Tips For Getting To 300,000 Miles
1. Keep your battery charged. This is especially important if you don’t drive your car that often. If you plan to let a vehicle sit for more than a couple weeks, you should invest in a “trickle charger,” or battery tender, which plugs into a regular household outlet and keeps your battery fully charged, automatically. I have a battery tender for my lawn tractor battery for winter months, and it guarantees a strong start in the spring.
2. Keep at least half a tank of gas in the car. Plenty of reasons not to let your car run on fumes, but one I had never considered before reading this article is that an empty gas tank is more prone to rust. The rust can leach into your fuel and clog filters and fuel lines downstream. Rust could also eventually eat through your gas tank leaving a hole. At today’s gas prices, who can afford for that to happen!
3. Don’t forget the tires. When you fill up your gas tank, or every couple weeks, whichever happens more frequently, be sure to check your tire pressure. If you drive an older vehicle like me you’ll need to pick up a tire gauge. Look at the label inside the door, or in your owner’s manual, to find the correct tire pressure for your specific model. Low tire pressure causes things like uneven wear on your tires and decreased gas mileage.
4. Change the oil. There is some debate in the frugal car owner world on whether or not you should change your oil as often as prescribed by car manufacturers (and those express oil-changing facilities). I’m no expert, but I think you should stay pretty close to the suggested schedule, only deviating a month or two, or a couple hundred miles. Peters agrees with me. Besides, a $30 oil change is much cheaper than a new engine, and if you are ultra frugal, you can even change your own oil!
5. Be kind to your clutch, and your brakes. If you drive a car with a manual transmission you know at some point you will likely have to replace the clutch. But you can extend the life of your clutch, and your brakes, by not riding either one for long periods of time, and by using your accelerator (or not using your accelerator) to coast a bit as traffic ebbs and flows.
Automobiles are becoming more and more expensive these days. In fact, next to buying a home, it is probably the largest single purchase most people will make in a lifetime. Use the steps above to increase the chances your vehicle will last well beyond your car loan, guaranteeing you many years of debt-free driving.
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Honda's SEMA Display: Honda, HPD, and Acura
Honda visited the premier automotive specialty products trade event in
the world, the SEMA show. Honda's display featured the sleekest cars
from the Honda brand. From the 2013 Honda Accord Coupe with an HFP kit
to championship HPD cars to the brand new Acura ILX.
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Persistent, Never Pushy, Provided Something Valuable. That's Us.
"The dealer was recommended to us as providing fair pricing and in general i would agree. More important to us was the follow up and persistence of Mary. She followed up regularly with us but was never pushy. The best part was Mary never called with out providing us something valuable...a car they had in inventory that met the requirements we had provided her."
- David M.
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
2013 Honda Civic to Debut at Los Angeles Auto Show With More Youthful and Premium Styling
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The more upscale and premium styling of the 2013 Civic Sedan's front end includes a new open-mouth lower bumper with a horizontal chrome accent and a sportier, black honeycomb mesh grille, anchored by new integrated fog lights on upper trims. The grille is flanked by new clear-lens corner lights to provide a more premium look. The 2013 Civic's more sculpted front end flows into a new, more deeply faceted hood, complemented by a collection of sharp new wheel designs.
In back, a new rear bumper design and new rear trunk lid are capped by a clean, horizontal chrome trim piece. The all-new design of the jewel-like taillights now carries into the trunk face, providing a more finished and upscale look. The rear bumper features integrated reflector treatments and a new lower diffuser panel finished with a honeycomb mesh vent.
"The 2013 Honda Civic exterior refinements infuse Civic with a more youthful, premium style. Coupling these with additional changes beneath will ensure that Civic maintains its top-ranked status," said Vicki Poponi, assistant vice president of product planning for American Honda.
Heading into 2013 with styling and content additions, the Civic's fun-to-drive nature and core attributes of safety, spaciousness and fuel efficiency remain intact. As the compact segment's retail sales leader, the Honda Civic continues as the benchmark for consumers looking for the smart purchase in a very competitive segment.
Full details of the 2013 Honda Civic will be revealed on Nov. 29 at 10:05 a.m. PST at the Los Angeles Auto Show. For photos showing the styling direction of the 2013 Civic, visit www.hondanews.com.
Monday, November 12, 2012
Keep Your Vehicle Chillin’ Rather Than Illin’: Winter Maintenance Tips That Increase Safety and Value
With the sun shining and the air conditioning cranked to the max, it may be hard to imagine how you or your vehicle will feel when it is below freezing. As the seasons change, however, it is time to think about getting ready for rain, snow, and ice because safety on the road becomes even more critical during the winter months. There are also proactive measures that you can take now that will save money while increasing the vehicle’s reliability and value no matter what Mother Nature unleashes.
Reviewing Maintenance Records
If you have not already recorded oil changes, tires, or other vehicle work that was completed during the spring and summer, now is a good time to get your log updated. This will enable you to reflect on the vehicle’s performance over the last few months. You should also review the previous winter’s records to see how the vehicle fared.
Having organized and accurate maintenance records does not just earn you a gold star; it provides the documentation you need to procure a higher sales price when you trade it in or find a private buyer. And even when you still own the vehicle, this record will provide an easy checklist to consult when the weather changes.
If your record keeping leaves a lot to be desired, there are services that you might consider using that provide these helpful reminders and maintain a real-time log on each of your vehicles, which can help you get ready for the winter.
Safety First
Tires are one of the most important places to check on your vehicle in preparation for winter because they will be coming into contact with all sorts of hazardous road conditions. Here are some suggestions:
- Make sure they are in shape or replace them with a set of special winterized tires.
- Check your vehicle’s alignment, especially if you have added a new set of tires or changed out a couple of them.
- Ensure that the tires have the proper air pressure because this is what will provide you with good handling and traction control when it is most needed. It is critical that this pressure gets checked because the colder weather can cause contraction of the air within the tires, which can drastically alter the pressure without you even realizing it. Don’t sacrifice tire performance and your safety on the road!
- You may need to consult your owner’s manual to guarantee that you have the right tires and pressure for winter driving conditions. Select a tire that has a tread that can hug and hold the road beneath the vehicle no matter what the conditions.
- This is a good time to check that your snow chains are in good working order and within reach so you will not be stuck somewhere in the snow without them.
In terms of safety, it is also important to replace the wiper blades and top up the cold-weather wiper fluid, so that you can keep your windshield free of debris and other things that might inhibit your view while driving. Also remember to test and replace interior and exterior bulbs. Lights are essential when visibility is reduced during blinding rain and snow storms.
Looks Count Too!
Wet weather, snow, salt from the roads, and mud can harm your vehicle’s beautiful paint and, even worse, begin corroding its undercarriage. Here are a few suggestions to prep the exterior of your vehicle:
- Start with a good detailing job on the interior and exterior during the autumn months.
- Protect the vehicle’s exterior with a special wax to minimize the effects brought on by harsh conditions.
- Use a heavy-duty window cleaner to remove all the dust and debris from the summer road trips.
- Complete the process with a paint sealant that goes over the wax coat as an extra layer of defense.
Despite the bad weather, your vehicle will still want to shine and you want to make sure that you do not have to shell out on a new paint job in a few years.
Performance Boosters
After being run under the hottest conditions, your vehicle must shift gears so that performs well under some of the coldest ones. Your car will need to work harder to get started and maintain optimum performance when temperatures plummet below freezing. There are a number of check-ups to be done under the hood:
- Check your battery and charging system, which will be strained once the cold weather starts.
- Switch to a low-viscosity oil or synthetic oil because these oils can handle the severe cold and boost your vehicle’s ability to still get revved up quickly. Be sure to check your owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Examine all filters and hoses to make sure there are no leaks or cracks that will inhibit the vehicle.
- Consider replacing antifreeze, which must be done every two years or 30,000 miles, because this will also affect vehicle performance.
Unique Winter Challenges
Winter means unique challenges, so you can plan well for these situations:
- Make sure your care heater and defrosting system are working. Look over the vehicle’s thermostat and coolant level to make sure that the engine will be able to warm up properly. You may think that the coolant level is only important in the summer, but it can actually inhibit the performance of your heater.
- There are times when you might get stuck so it is important to have your vehicle stocked with warm blankets, flares, gloves, a shovel, a de-icer, a crank radio, snacks, and first aid kit.
Take Care of Your Vehicle and It Will Return the Favor
While there are specific requirements that your unique vehicle may have, the tips mentioned in this article provide an overview of some of the most important maintenance actions to take in the winter months. Taking care of your vehicle now means that it will return the favor by getting you home in the next rain storm or snow flurry. Being careful and proactive about the maintenance of your vehicle will ease your mind as you and your family can safely navigate the harsh weather.
Friday, November 9, 2012
Funny Friday Time
"What happened this time?" he asked.
"My brakes went out," Jill said. "Can you come to get me?"
"Yeah, all right, where are you?" John asked.
"I'm in the drugstore," Jill responded.
"Okay, and where's the car?" John asked.
Jill replied, "It's in here with me." Got any good ones? Share them with us!
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
What-Were-They-Thinking Wednesday
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
The Honda Accord: Deserving of the Details
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 – all-electric, 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 fuel-efficiency, 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.
Available Powertrains
Accord Sedan | 2013 | 2012 | Change |
| Engine | 2.4L I4 | 2.4L I4 | |
| 3.5L V6 | 3.5L V6 | ||
| SAE* Horsepower @ rpm | 185 @ 6400 (I4) | 177 @ 6500 (I4) | +8 |
| 189 @ 6400 (Sport) | 190 @ 7000 (I4 EX) | -1 | |
| 278 @ 6200 (V6) | 271 @ 6200 (V6) | +7 | |
| SAE* Torque @ rpm | 181 @ 3900 (I4) | 161 @ 4300 (I4) | +20 |
| 182 @ 3900 (Sport) | 162 @ 4400 (I4 EX) | +20 | |
| 252 @ 4900 (V6) | 254 @ 5000 (V6) | -2 | |
| Required fuel | Regular unleaded | Regular unleaded | |
| Transmission | CVT (I4) | 5AT (I4) | |
| 6MT (I4) | 5MT (I4) | ||
| 6AT (V6) | 5AT (V6) | ||
| CARB emissions rating | ULEV-2/PZEV (I4 CVT) | ULEV-2/PZEV (I4 5AT) | |
| ULEV-2/PZEV (V6) | ULEV-2 (I4 5MT) | ||
| ULEV-2 (I4 6MT) | ULEV-2 (V6) | ||
| EPA fuel economy rating city/hwy/combined2 | 27/36/30 (I4 CVT) | 23/34/27 (I4 5AT) | +4/+2/+3 |
| 24/34/28 (I4 6MT) | 23/34/27 (I4 5MT) | +1/-/+1 | |
| 21/34/25 (V6) | 20/30/24 (V6) | +1/+4/+1 |
*SAE J1349 testing method
Accord Coupe | 2013 | 2012 | Change |
| Engine | 2.4L I4 | 2.4L I4 | |
| 3.5L V6 | 3.5L V6 | ||
| SAE* Horsepower @ rpm | 185 @ 6400 (I4) | 177 @ 6500 (I4) | +8 |
| 190 @ 7000 (I4 EX) | -5 | ||
| 278 @ 6200 (V6) | 271 @ 6000 (V6 AT) | +7 | |
| SAE* Torque @ rpm | 181 @ 3900 (I4) | 162 @ 4400 (I4 EX) | +19 |
| 252 @ 4900 (V6) | 254 @ 5000 (V6 AT) | -2 | |
| Required fuel | Regular unleaded | Regular unleaded | |
| Transmission | CVT (I4) | 5AT (I4) | |
| 6MT (I4, V6) | 5MT (I4) | ||
| 6AT (V6) | 5AT (V6) | ||
| CARB emissions rating | ULEV-2/PZEV (I4 CVT) | ULEV-2/PZEV (I4 5AT) | |
| ULEV-2/PZEV (V6) | ULEV-2 (I4 5MT) | ||
| ULEV-2 (I4 6MT) | ULEV-2 (V6) | ||
| EPA fuel economy rating city/hwy/combined2 | 26/35/29 (I4 CVT) | 22/33/26 (I4 5AT) | +4/+2/+3 |
| 24/34/28 (I4 6MT) | 23/32/26 (I4 5MT) | +1/+2/+2 | |
| 21/32/25 (V6 6AT) | 19/29/23 (V6 5AT) | +2/+3/+2 | |
| 18/28/22 (V6 6MT) | 17/26/21 (V6 6MT) | +1/+2/+1 |
*SAE J1349 testing method
New Accord Technology
A number of new Honda technologies debut on the 2013 Accord models. Covering all aspects of the vehicle from exterior features to powertrain, and from chassis features to electronics, they combine to elevate the Accord driving experience to a new level. Some of the key new features include:
Direct Injection
Honda's first use of direct injection (DI) in North America significantly contributes to the 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder engine's outstanding fuel efficiency and low emissions. (See Powertrain section.)
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
A new Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is available with the 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine. Featuring a wider ratio range than the 5-speed automatic transmission it replaces, the CVT significantly contributes to the Accord's improved fuel efficiency. The Accord CVT has special G-Design Shift logic that is designed to offer more immediate acceleration response than either conventional automatics or other CVT designs.
MacPherson Strut Front Suspension
Lighter than the double-wishbone system it replaces, the Accord's new MacPherson strut front suspension system provides superior ride and handling qualities, while also reducing interior noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). The front suspension also rides on a new aluminum and steel front subframe that is assembled with a new proprietary Honda friction-stir-welding process.
LED Lighting
The Touring Sedan features Honda's first use of Light Emitting Diode (LED) projector headlights for improved visibility. LED daytime running lights (DRLs) are found on V-6 powered models, and LED brake lights come on all EX-L and Touring models. (See Body section.)
Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
Included on Accord EX-L and Touring models, Lane Departure Warning (LDW) alerts drivers when lane drift is detected without a turn signal in use. (See Safety section.)
Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
Included on EX-L and Touring Sedan and EX-L Coupe models, Forward Collision Warning (FCW) alerts the driver when the system detects a potential collision with another vehicle ahead. (See Safety section.)
Honda LaneWatch™ Blind Spot Display
Included on Accord EX, EX-L and Touring Sedan models and Accord EX-L Coupe, Honda LaneWatch™ Blind Spot Display provides an expanded rear view of the passenger side roadway via the audio/information screen. (See Interior section.)
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
Exclusive to the Touring Sedan, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) allows the driver to set a desired speed and a distance interval behind the vehicle ahead. This allows using cruise control in light traffic. (See Powertrain section.)
Accord Sedan Quick Specs (LX)
|
| 2013 | 2012 | Change |
| Wheelbase, in. | 109.3 | 110.2 | - 0.9 |
| Length, in. | 191.4 | 194.9 | - 3.5 |
| Height, in. | 57.7 | 58.1 | - 0.4 |
| Width, in. | 72.8 | 72.7 | + 0.1 |
| Track, F/R, in. | 62.8/62.7 | 62.6/62.6 | + 0.2/ +0.1 |
| Curb weight, lbs. (MT) | 3192 | 3216 | -24.0 |
| Cargo volume, cu. ft. | 15.8 | 14.7 | +1.1 |
| Passenger volume, cu. ft. | 103.2 | 106.0 | -2.8 |
| Seating capacity | 5 | 5 | - |
| Fuel capacity, gal. | 17.2 | 18.5 | - 1.3 |
Accord Coupe Quick Specs (LX-S)
|
| 2013 | 2012 | Change |
| Wheelbase, in. | 107.3 | 107.9 | -0.6 |
| Length, in. | 189.2 | 191.0 | -0.8 |
| Height, in. | 56.5 | 56.4 | +0.1 |
| Width, in. | 72.8 | 72.8 | - |
| Track, F/R, in. | 62.4/62.3 | 62.2/62.2 | +0.2/+0.1 |
| Curb weight, lbs. (MT) | 3186 | 3184 | +2.0 |
| Cargo volume, cu. ft. | 13.7 | 11.9 | +1.8 |
| Pass. volume, cu. ft. | 95.6 | 92.1 | +3.5 |
| Seating capacity | 5 | 5 | - |
| Fuel capacity, gal. | 17.2 | 18.5 | -1.3 |
1 Honda products are produced using domestic and globally sourced parts.
2 Based on 2013 EPA mileage estimates. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.
3 Compatible with select phones with Bluetooth® only. Your wireless carrier's rate plans apply. State or local laws may limit use of texting feature. Only use texting feature when conditions allow you to do so safely. Drive responsibly. Some state laws prohibit the operation of handheld electronic devices while operating a vehicle. For safety reasons, always launch your audio application or perform any other operation on your phone or audio device only when the vehicle is safely parked.
4 The Bluetooth® word mark and logos are owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc., and any such use of such marks by Honda Motor Co., Ltd., is under license.
5 XM services require a subscription after 90-day trial period. Subscriptions governed by SiriusXM Customer Agreement; see www.siriusxm.com. If you decide to continue your XM service at the end of your complimentary trial, the plan you choose will automatically be renewed and you will be billed at then-current rates until you call XM at 1-800-967-2346 to cancel. Fees and programming subject to change. Available only to those at least 18 years of age in the 48 contiguous United States and D.C. ©2012 Sirius XM Radio Inc. Sirius, XM and all related marks and logos are trademarks of Sirius XM Radio Inc. and its subsidiaries.
6 Windows Media® is a trademark or registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
7 The USB Audio Interface is used for direct connection to and control of some current digital audio players and other USB devices that contain MP3, WMA or AAC music files. Some USB devices with security software and digital rights-protected files may not work. Please see your Honda dealer for details.
8 Preliminary EPA fuel economy ratings and gas-electric range rating determined by Honda. Final EPA mileage ratings not available at the time of printing. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage and range will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.
Monday, November 5, 2012
Your Monday Maintenance Tip: Keeping Up Appearances
What's the simplest thing people can do to help maintain their car's value over time? Richard Griot of car care and tool supplier Griot's Garage says, "Keep all of your vehicle's surfaces — the glass, trim, paint and wheels — clean." And we agree.
Your car has many enemies — some visible, some not. Emissions from industrial plants are released into the environment, where they are transformed into nitric or sulfuric acid. When deposited onto your car, in either a wet or a dry state, these contaminants can eat paint and, in extreme cases, metal. When ignored, acid from dead bugs, bird droppings, tree sap and even fallen leaves can do the same. Even something as benign as dust can cause tiny scratches in your car's finish, which can make the vehicle look dull and lifeless.
And the longer offensive contaminants are left on your vehicle, the greater the extent of the damage they can cause to both the car and its perceived value.
So what, you say? A few war wounds are endearing, right? Wrong!
Perception Versus Reality
The reality is that people often value material items based on the way they look. According to the folks at Kelley Blue Book, aesthetics is one of the top considerations when a person buys a car. And since more people are testing the used-car market these days, it is important to keep your car looking its best so it's worth more when you are ready to sell it. A vehicle that has a pitted or stained finish or splotches of rust is a turnoff, and thus is worth less than a car that looks pristine, regardless of how you maintained the vehicle mechanically — sad, but true.
If you currently don't clean your car regularly (at least twice a month), it's not too late to change your ways. Of course, the quickest and easiest way to a sparkling clean car inside and out is to take your four-wheeled friend to a detail shop for the royal treatment. At $75 to $300 or more per visit, using a professional detailer twice a month can get rather pricey. Luckily, there are plenty of do-it-yourself products on the market that you can use to clean your car at home, saving time and money.
To help, we've compiled some advice from car-care professionals on how to properly clean and care for your automobile. Follow these guidelines and your ride will look like you have a detailer on weekly retainer.
ON THE OUTSIDE
Before breaking out the sponges and getting down to business, you'll want to park the vehicle in a shaded spot, preferably in a gravel area where the water can seep, rather than on asphalt that can cause rapid runoff. Direct sunlight can cause some surfaces to dry faster than you may want them to, leaving residue and, thus, unwanted streaks on the finish.
The Basic Wash
Now you're ready to get busy. You'll need a steady supply of water (make sure your hose has a trigger-type nozzle, to conserve water), a soft and dirt-free cloth (or a wash mitt, terry cloth towel or soft-bristle brush) and — last but not least — a proper car-wash soap.
Don't make the mistake of using dishwashing soap or a household cleaner on your car; they contain harsh detergents that can strip wax and damage paint. As Craig Burnett, chemist for Mothers Polishes-Waxes-Cleaners, puts it: "Car-wash products are designed to remove automotive dirt from cars, not grime from clothes or grease from dishes. Don't confuse your kitchen with your garage."
Also, most car-care experts recommend starting at the top of the vehicle and working your way down, focusing on one section at a time. "The bottom of your car, particularly behind the wheel wells, traditionally has heavier accumulations of dirt particles," explains Mike Pennington, director of training for Meguiar's, a leading producer of car-care products. "Washing from the top down minimizes the risk of contaminants in the water or getting caught in the wash mitt or brush, thus minimizing the chances of creating scratches or swirls in the paint as you rub the car clean."
Here's the best game plan:
1. First rinse the entire car with water to remove loose dirt.
2. Wash and rinse the vehicle one section at a time, working from top to bottom, to prevent a section from drying too quickly and leaving deposits or residue.
3. Don't scrub aggressively. Instead, rub the car's surface gently to loosen dirt. Aggressive rubbing can grind dirt right into the finish, leaving scratches and swirls.
4. Rinse the wash mitt or sponge often to prevent accumulated dirt from scratching the paint.
5. After the final rinse, wipe the excess water from the vehicle's surface to prevent water spotting. A soft terry cloth towel or a high-quality chamois are recommended. Keep the towel or chamois clean to help prevent scratching, and wipe the vehicle lightly to soak up water without abrading the vehicle's finish.
Note: If you live in a climate where sand or salt is used on the road surface, be sure to rinse inside the wheel wells, paying special attention to the lower part of the fender, where salt and sand may have accumulated. We recommend using a high-pressure hose for this task.
Wheels and Tires
One of the most dramatic ways to improve the appearance of your vehicle is to keep its tires and wheels (or rims) clean. Address the wheels first.
Have you ever noticed that the front wheels of many cars appear dirtier than the back wheels? This is caused by the accumulation of brake dust shed by disc brakes, which are on the front wheels of virtually all cars these days. A number of car-care products on the market do a good job of removing it. You simply spray the cleaner on and rinse after 30 to 60 seconds.
Be careful, however, to use the right kind of cleaner for your type of wheels. If you don't, the results could be devastating. For instance, a spray-on product designed for premium alloys will begin to strip off a typical wheel's protective varnish if left on too long. It can also damage plastic wheel covers. So read the directions and warnings carefully before you apply any wheel cleaner.
After the rims are spick-and-span, focus your attention on the tires. Many tire dressings simply spray on and require no wiping. They are formulated to produce a clean, slightly glossy look.
Wax On, Wax Off
At least 97 percent of today's vehicles come from the factory with some type of clear-coat finish that contains stabilizers, ultraviolet light blockers and UV light absorbers that help keep a vehicle's paint looking new longer. While they do provide great protection, clear-coats are not a panacea.
"Clear-coats can give drivers a false sense of security by appearing to protect the underlying base coat," says Matthew Broderick, group vice president of marketing at Turtle Wax Inc. "They are fragile and susceptible to scratches, abrasions and swirls that make the paint look dull."
Waxing your vehicle will help remove paint oxidation and surface dirt, while adding another layer of protection against grease and grime. Wax will also improve or remove minor damage such as surface scratches or light contaminants and will provide a high-luster finish.
Most automakers recommend that you wax your vehicle twice a year to protect its clear-coat from damage and maintain the car's color and shine. However, some auto-care suppliers recommend monthly waxing. "Ideally, a vehicle should be waxed three to four times per year," Pennington says, to maximize the protection provided by the wax. "A good strategy is to start right before the winter and get into a three-month cycle."
When waxing your ride:
1. Wash and dry the vehicle before applying any product.
2. The paint surface should be cool and not in direct sunlight. The outside temperature should be above 50 degrees Fahrenheit, and humidity should be low.
3. Apply the wax in small sections with either a foam pad or small terry cloth towel using overlapping strokes or circular motions.
4. Wait for a section to dry to a haze before wiping the wax off with a terry cloth towel or cloth diaper. Wipe in both directions, turning the towels often. And remember to shake them out often to remove accumulated wax that might scratch the finish.
5. When completely finished, wipe the entire vehicle again, paying particular attention to the edges of trim pieces, doorjambs and moldings where excess wax may have accumulated.
For additional shine between wax jobs, several manufacturers offer spray-and-wipe products to quickly enhance a vehicle's shine.
ON THE INSIDE
Now that you have finished the exterior, it's time to tackle your car's interior.
First, thoroughly vacuum all carpets and upholstery to remove loose, dry dirt. Don't forget to vacuum under the seats.
Specialists recommend using lint-free towels and clean water to clean the dash area and seats. Cotton swabs are helpful for getting dust out of tight spots, and a clean, stiff-bristled brush is indispensable for removing caked-on dirt and grime in carpets and floor mats.
As far as solvents are concerned, Pennington suggests you always use a product that is designed for the surface you want to clean, whether it is leather, vinyl, plastic, wood, simulated wood or upholstery. Each product is specifically formulated for a particular surface and will not work effectively on other surfaces. In fact, the wrong cleaner may even do damage.
Even with right cleaner, don't use too much of it. "The biggest problem with interior cleaning is that many people overuse the cleaning products or saturate the carpet when they shampoo," Pennington says. Also never use a product that leaves a shiny, slick finish on the dashboard or steering wheel. A shiny dash reflects light, which can be a major safety hazard while driving. Same goes for a slippery steering wheel.
Friday, November 2, 2012
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Honda Marks 30 Years of U.S. Manufacturing
On Nov. 1, 1982, the first U.S.-built Honda Accord rolled off the manufacturing line in Marysville, Ohio. Now, more than 17 million vehicles later, Honda is commemorating its 30th anniversary of U.S. auto operations. Honda became the first Japanese automaker to produce automobiles in America in 1982, and has grown to employ more than 26,000 associates with nine major manufacturing plants. The 30th anniversary commemoration kicked off with the production start of the all-new 2013 Honda Accord at the Marysville Auto Plant.
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