Category Archives: Queenston

MUST HAVE MOBILE APPS WHEN YOU’RE ON THE ROAD!

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We can’t deny the convenience of mobile apps. However, with so many out there these days, it’s hard to know which ones to download and which ones actually hold value.  Here at AutoHwy.com, we are all about convenience for you, the customer.  For that reason, we have put together a list of free mobile apps that we think are the most useful to have when you are out on the road.

OnStar RemoteLink

If you currently own a General Motors vehicle and are an OnStar subscriber, this is one mobile app you want to make sure you download!  No longer will you find yourself struggling because you have locked your keys in the car.  Now, with the assistance of your phone, you are worry free with the remote start and unlock feature this mobile app provides.  The OnStar RemoteLink mobile app also allows you to receive fuel information such as range and remaining gallons, as well as the ability to monitor your oil life.  You can view your current tire pressure, activate your horn and lights to locate your vehicle, or simply contact OnStar for roadside assistance.  The features this app provides are simply unparalleled.

This mobile app is available on iPhone, Android and Blackberry devices. *FREE

Urban Spoon

How many times have we found ourselves out and about trying to decide on a place to eat?  More often than not, we pull in to the nearest chain restaurant, when what we really want to find is that little hole-in-the-wall diner all the locals love to eat at!  With the Urban Spoon mobile app, you can have thousands of restaurants at your fingertips.  The map mode on this app allows you to locate restaurants that are in your current vicinity.  Use the “shake feature” if you are feeling a little more spontaneous or there is always the option to filter by cuisine, neighbourhood or price.

This mobile app is available on iPhone, Android and Blackberry devices. *FREE

GasBuddy.com

Yikes, you’re almost out of gas and you don’t know where you are!  Download the GasBuddy mobile app and your problems will be solved.  Not only does this app provide you with the locations of the nearest gas stations, but it will also tell you which stations offer the lowest gas prices.  This is a great app to have, especially when you find yourself in a pinch!

This mobile app is available on iPhone, Android and Blackberry devices. *FREE

 CAA Mobile App

This free mobile app is designed to make your life easier as a CAA Member.  Search for exclusive savings or plan a trip with TripTik (TripTik allows you to find CAA/AAA approved hotels, attractions, events and more).  Find yourself stuck on the side of the road with a flat tire and are unsure where you put that CAA card with your membership number?  Simply use your mobile app to request roadside assistance.

This mobile app is available on iPhone, Android and Blackberry devices. *FREE

Discover Ontario Mobile App

This mobile app is the official app of Ontario Tourism.  Find out where the Province’s festivals and events are being held and even get tips on dining and lodging.  This app is great for families and even adventure enthusiasts.

This mobile app is available on iPhone, Android and Blackberry devices. *FREE

By: Amy Cochren

www.queenstonchev.com
www.imagehonda.com

HAMILTON TRANSPORTATION AND HEALTHY LIVING FAIR 2012

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The Transportation and Healthy Living Fair held at Gore Park on June 21, 2012 attracted hundreds of environmentally conscious commuters looking for ways to travel in a more “green” and environmentally friendly way. Located in the heart of downtown Hamilton, the fair was perfectly situated with many people enjoying the summer sun and those enjoying their lunch breaks.

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Despite the sweltering heat and humidity, crowds gathered around in awe to admire the sleek design of the 2012 Chevrolet Volt – an extended range electric vehicle.  Betty Greiser, sales and leasing consultant at Queenston on the Mountain, was there to meet with and introduce the crowds to a “greener” way of travel.   The environmentally friendly commuters were also introduced to the new MOT “green plates” that allow drivers to travel in the HOV lane – making their commute not only “greener” but speedier as well.

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Amongst participants and fellow eco-friendly enthusiasts, we are proud to say that the Chevrolet Volt stood out as the star of this event.  

By: Nerissa Mohamed

Why I Love Selling the Buick Verano

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I never fail to receive impressed looks from customers when they lay their eyes on the attractive lines and stunning waterfall grille of the Buick Verano.  The nod of approval I get when they discover its impressive gas mileage (46mi/gal hwy, 29mi/gal city) and outstanding warranty (4 year/80,000km New Vehicle Limited Warranty and 5 year/160,000km Powertrain Warranty with 24/7 Roadside assistance) is nothing short of satisfying.  However, what customers are most pleased with is the affordable pricing of a well-equipped luxury sedan that starts at $24,190 and its attractive leasing programs.

From the moment my customer’s sink into the Verano’s very comfortable and supportive seats, to the time they push the ignition start button and hear the 2.4L, 4 cylinder 180 Horsepower engine purr like a kitten, they know instinctively that they are in a vehicle class above the rest.  The wide-eyed deer caught in the headlights look customers give when they scan the elegant and intuitive controls, lets you know that they are soaking up the delightful infotainment system and built-in navigation. 

 

Now, if you’ve driven the roads by Queenston on The Mountain, you know they are a little rough.  That being said, they do help to prove a point   – The Buick Verano handles wonderfully!  This car drives effortlessly over the bumps and pits without the need for wearing a kidney belt!  The road construction buzz of jackhammers and machinery on Rymal Road are almost completely tuned out with components like triple sealed doors and a headliner made with no fewer than 5 layers of acoustic insulation material.  By the time we are back at Queenston on the Mountain, I have one very impressed customer on my hands.

 

 

 

 

 

Hmm where shall we park this one, in the sold row? 

 

Betty Greiser
Sales and Leasing Consultant
Queenston on the Mountain

 

THE ALL-NEW 2012 CHEVROLET VOLT!

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Who killed the electric car? NO ONE!  If you’re looking for an “electrifying experience”, you need to consider the 2012 Chevrolet VOLT.

What many people don’t realize is that the VOLT is unlike other cars – past and present.  You no longer have to be concerned about how far you can drive, thanks to a range extending 1.4L gasoline-powered generator that takes over when you run out of battery charge.  The 16-kWh lithium-ion battery will charge in as little as 4 hours, and will allow you to travel between 40 and 80 kilometers on electric power.  The Volt can be fully charged in about 10 hours using a regular 120-volt household outlet.  Say goodbye to gas stations – simply pull up to your own garage, plug it in and you’re on your way.

Let’s breakdown some of the state of the art features the Volt has to offer.

  • The Chevrolet Volt features 3 driving modes: Normal, Sport and Mountain
  • Each Volt comes equipped with 8 standard air bags.
  • A charge unit and 5.5m 120-volt charge cord are included with every vehicle purchase.
  • Because the Volt runs in almost complete silence, an audible alert helps warn pedestrians of your approach.
  • The 16-kWh lithium-ion battery combines power from over 288 individual cells and is covered by an 8-year/160,000 km warranty.
  • The StabiliTrak electronic stability control system enhances driver control.
  • When battery operated, this vehicle produces zero tailpipe emissions!

The outstanding efficiency of the Volt is matched with its unparalleled performance, with an acceleration rate that takes you from 0-96km/h in under nine seconds.  Perhaps the most noteworthy feature is the almost silent delivery of the Volt.  When driving this vehicle, you will discover that it is as smooth as it is quiet – It almost feels as if you are floating through air.

The 2012 Chevrolet Volt is the recipient of several awards including 2011 North American Car of the Year, 2011 World Green Car, 2011 IIGS Top Safety Pick, one of Car and Driver’s 2011 10 Best Cars, and Automobile Magazine’s 2011 Automobile of the year .

Embrace the future, reduce your environmental footprint and put your anxieties aside with the 2012 Chevrolet Volt.  If you are interested in purchasing the Volt or would like more information, please contact us at one of our two locations: Queenston on the Mountain and Queenston on Centennial.

By: Amy Cochren

CREDIT: General Motors, General Motors Canada

GM DEXOS OIL

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The quality of oil is extremely important when it comes to your vehicle and can have a positive effect on your engine’s capabilities.  That’s why General Motors has developed DEXOS, a synthetic blend oil.  Dexos not only increases your fuel efficiency, but extends the life of your emissions system, requires fewer oil changes on your vehicle and has a positive effect on the environment by producing fewer emissions.  This high quality oil has been formatted to demanding specifications in the industry. Its requirements have been made up from a combination of some of the most rigorous tests in the industry, such as those from the American Petroleum Institute and the European Automobile Manufacturers Association.  A higher viscosity oil, Dexos is half the price of synthetic oil, yet it has the same qualities and advantages as synthetic.   

All General Motors 2011 and later models are required to operate on Dexos oil.  Only oils displaying green or blue Dexos ™ trademark icon on the front label, have been certified and licensed by General Motors as meeting the tough performance requirements.  If the oil you are considering does not have this symbol, be assured it has not gone through GM’s rigorous testing.

The key features to take away are:

GM Dexos1 ™

  • Exhibits improved oxidization and water performance which provides improved fuel economy.
  • Increased piston cleanliness delivers maximum engine performances.
  • Lower volatility delivers reduced oil consumption.
  • Greater viscosity control helps deliver improved fuel economy.

If you have any questions about DEXOS Oil or would like to schedule an oil change, please feel free to contact us at one of our two locations – Queenston on Centennial or Queenston on the Mountain.

By: Amy Cochren

Credit: General Motors Canada

OEM VS. AFTERMARKET PARTS

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It would be nice if nothing ever went wrong with the vehicles we drove and they continued to perform with the same capabilities as when we first bought them.  Unfortunately, sooner or later, something will go wrong with your vehicle you’ll need to replace a part.  When it comes to replacement units for our vehicles, we do have a number of options.  Most often, this choice is between OEM and aftermarket.  The debate over which is better, will forever be ongoing, but it is important that you be informed about the difference between the two.  Ultimately, it comes down to quality and budget.

OEM:

An OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer Part) is a part exclusively made by the vehicles manufacturer.  Example: Honda OEM is made by Honda; GM is made by General Motors.

OEM parts are made from the same molds and manufacturing process as the original part.  This allows for maximum performance and a perfect fit when it comes to installation.  OEM parts represent a standard of quality and engineering that only the original manufacturer can authorize.  Another benefit to purchasing an OEM over an aftermarket part is that we can offer warranty not only on the part, but on the labour as well.

Aftermarket Part:

An aftermarket part is made by a third-party vendor and has been deemed by the insurance industry to be a reasonable alternative to an OEM part.  A common misrepresentation is that aftermarket parts are always cheaper, but this is not necessarily the case.  In fact, going with an aftermarket part which is not covered under warranty, could cost you more in the long run.

At our Queenston on the Mountain and Queenston on Centennial locations, we offer a minimum of 1 year and unlimited kilometer warranty on all GM parts.  Engines and transmissions we provide a 3 year warranty and 160,000 kilometer warranty for parts and labour.  Our Durastop brakes include a 1 year warranty and lifetime for parts and labour.  General Motors also provides various purchase options on OEM parts according to quality.  Whenever you visit a Goodwrench service department, you are given the option to choose from what GM calls “Good”, “Better”, and “Best” parts.

At Image Honda, all OEM parts come with a 1 year, 20,000 kilometer warranty for parts and labour.

When visiting one of our dealerships, you know you are going to receive the absolute best service on your vehicle.  Our technicians are specialized and manufacturer-trained.  Each technician is required to participate in on-going training programs that keep them up-to-date to provide you, the customer, with the very best service that can be offered.

If you have any questions regarding OEM or Aftermarket parts, or you would like to schedule a service appointment, please contact us today!

By: Amy Cochren

        

Also make sure to visit us at www.autohwy.com!

Marty Muis – 25 Years of Service!

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Queenston on Centennial would like to congratulate Marty Muis on 25 years of service!  We would like to extend our gratitude for his hard work and dedication over the years.

For those of you who don’t know Marty, he started as a Sales Representative with Queenston in February of 1987.  Since then, he has worked passionately on building solid relationships with his customers.  Always going above and beyond for his clients, Marty values each customer as a friend and has established many relationships both in and out of the dealership.  In fact, because of these relationships, 100% of his business is from repeat customers and referrals.  If you have ever had the pleasure of doing business with Marty, you know for certain that he is a man of his word, and that you can always depend on his honesty. 

In addition to his years of service at Queenston, Marty has been, and continues to be, an active member in our community.  For the last 12 years, he has been a supporter of the Debra Foundation, a charity Marty became involved with through one of his customers. The Debra Foundation is a voluntary, non-profit organization that is dedicated to providing support for families who are affected by Epidermolysis Bullosa, a rare genetic skin disorder that causes blisters and shearing of the skin.  On Thursday July 5th, 2012, the 14th Annual Charity Golf Classic is being held in support of Debra Canada and will be taking place at Peninsula Lake Golf Club. This year, Marty will once again be the Tournament’s Master of Ceremonies.  It should also be mentioned that Queenston will be providing a new car for the “Hole in One” contest.  If you would like more information on this Golf Classic or information on Debra Canada, click here.

In addition to his involvement with Debra Canada, Marty is also active with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Hamilton and Burlington.  For the last 5 years, he has been part of the organization committee for their annual Golf Tournament, which raises thousands of dollars each year.  This year’s Tournament is being held on Tuesday June 19, 2012 at Crosswinds Golf & Country Club, please click here for details.

In his time away from selling cars, Marty likes to spend time at his condo in Isla Del Sol, Florida.  He also enjoys spending time on the links as often as possible, or he can be found boating or sea-dooing on Lake Ontario.

Again, thank you Marty!  We honour your 25 years of exemplary service, and look forward to many more.

By: Amy Cochren

Questions Everyone Should Ask When Buying A New Vehicle

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When it comes to life’s big decisions, rarely do we act impulsively, so buying a vehicle should be no different.  If you are in the market for a new car, truck or SUV, it is important that you explore all of your options and know exactly what it is you want; otherwise, you can easily get distracted with the many choices that are out there.  To help you out with burdens that are sometimes associated with such a purchase, we have put together a list of questions you should ask before making the big decision.

 1. Why do I need a vehicle? Some reasons may include:

  • Too old
  • Luxury, style and compatibility
  • Lifestyle
  • Costly repairs
  • Dependability
  • Mileage

 2. What can I afford? 

Sure, it would be nice to drive off the lot in the car of your dreams, but it is important that you are realistic about what you can afford.  Not only do you need to look at the cost of the vehicle, but you should also research your insurance rates associated with the new vehicle, gas mileage, and warranty.  All of these are considerations that should not be left out of the purchasing process.

3. Should I buy new or used?

There are pros and cons to both new and used vehicle purchases.  When it comes to used cars, you are not as limited with your options as you used to be.  If you are considering purchasing a used vehicle, it is important to take a look at certified pre-owned vehicles.  To see more on certified used vehicles offered by Image Honda, click here.  If you would like information on certified used vehicles offered by Queenston, click here. 

When it comes to purchasing new vehicles, you have greater flexibility, especially when it comes to leasing. It is also important to note that your options for safety features will be greater on the new models.

4. What’s my credit like?

Unless you are paying cash up front for your new vehicle, you should know that your credit will be looked at.  Depending on your credit rating, your options for financing may be restricted.  It is important that you know what your options are before you go to make your purchase, for it could affect the amount you are loaned, as well as the interest rates you are given. That being said, if you have slow, bad, or no credit, have gone to collections or declared bankruptcy, there are options available and we can help.   Apply online at www.getapprovedtoday.ca or contact us at 1-866-532-4218.

5. Should I have a down payment?

It is not necessary to have a down payment when purchasing a new vehicle.  Nevertheless, if you can afford one, it will serve in your best interest by lowering your payments.

6. Can I get money towards a new purchase if I trade in my vehicle?

Absolutely! Come drop by our Image Honda or Queenston  locations for an appraisal. Bring us your car, get a quote and receive an offer – it’s as simple as that. We are prepared to pay you top dollar for your trade.

By: Amy Cochren

QUEENSTON CERTIFIED VEHICLES

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At Queenston, we are committed to providing you with a vehicle that suits your needs and meets your budget – a vehicle that you can depend on and enjoy.  More importantly, we will provide you with the best value for your hard-earned dollar.  Only offering you high quality vehicles that are thoroughly inspected and reconditioned above industry standards, all of our certified pre-owned vehicles come with extended warranties, life and disability insurance and appearance protection products.

Why buy from Queenston?  Let us tell you –

  • 10 year, 400,000 km Quaker State engine lubrication limited warranty (see dealership for details)
  • Carproof vehicle history report
  • 150 point certified vehicle inspection
  • 7 day or 1,500 km exchange policy
  • 24 hour roadside assistance
  • Student graduate rebate program
  • Professional written appraisals
  • Quick &Easy to obtain information and pricing
  • Competitive pricing and interest rates
  • On-the-spot credit approval
  • On-the-spot bank financing, including RBC, BMO, CIBC, SCOTIA and TD Canada Trust
  • Leasing available on all makes and models
  • Full-service dealership, including Sales, Service, Parts, Department and Body Shop
  • Part of the community for over 40 years
  • Service and support after the sale
  • Member in Good Standing with the OADA and OCDA                                       

For more information on our Certified vehicles visit us at www.queenstonchev.com or stop in and visit us at one of our 2 convenient locations in Hamilton.

Queenston on Centennial                           Queenston on the Mountain

282 Centennial Pkwy                                      2260 Rymal Road East
Hamilton, Ontario                                            Hannon, Ontario
905-560-2020                                                     905-528-7001