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!

STUDENT AND GRADUATE PROGRAMS – Get In a New Vehicle Today!

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It can be hard work being a student – so why shouldn’t you be rewarded! Wouldn’t it be nice to get in the front seat of your very own new car?  As a student or recent graduate, did you know that you are eligible for outstanding corporate offers from both Honda Canada and General Motors Canada?

Honda Canada Graduate Program

If you are a recent graduate looking to lease or finance a new vehicle, this is for you.  Honda requires no down payment and makes it easier for those individuals who have little or no credit history. 

Who is Eligible?

  • Graduates of an accredited minimum 3 or 4 year university program
  • Graduates of an accredited 2 or 3 year nursing school program
  • Graduates of a police or military school
  • Graduates of an accredited community college (minimum 2 year program)
  • Must have graduated within the last 12 months of an application date

If you would like more information on this Graduate Program, please click here.

General Motors Student Bonus Program

With GM, if you’re a student or graduate, when you buy or finance a new vehicle you can get up to $750 off your purchase!  For complete list of vehicles and rebates, click here.

Who is Eligible?

  • Full-time high school students of a recognized high school.
  • Have graduated within the last 4 years from a recognized high school.
  • Are a part-time or full-time student enrolled in an accredited College, CEGEP or University.
  • Are a part-time or full-time student of an adult and vocational program
  • Have graduated within the last 4 years from and accredited part-time or full-time adult and vocational program.

If you would like more information on this Student Program, please click here

These are two programs you don’t want to miss out on.  Make sure and visit us at any of our 3 locations: Image Honda, Queenston on the Mountain or Queenston on Centennial.   Let us do the homework for a change and help get you into a new vehicle come graduation!

By: Amy Cochren

Credit: General Motors Canada
Honda Canada

WAX ON, WAX OFF

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We’ve all heard of waxing your vehicle, but many people undervalue its importance.  How many times have you gone to have your car washed and been asked the question “Would you like to add the wax to your carwash today?” More often than not, we’re willing to bet your answer has been no.  Did you know that it is as important to wax your car as it is to regularly wash it?  A car wax does not need to be done as frequently as car wash; however, it should be performed at a minimum of twice a year.  This process will help seal your car from environmental contaminants and can command a higher resale value for your vehicle.  There are three main reasons why this should be done:

Water Protection:

When you wax your vehicle, you create a layer between the water and the paint.  If a proper wax has been completed, the water will form beads on the vehicle and slide down the sides.  When you do not have that element of protection, the water will cause damage to your vehicle’s paint finish, which over time, will lead to fading and ultimately diminish the paint’s lustre.

Sunlight Protection:

There are a couple ways that sunlight can cause damage to your paint, which is why it is important to wax.  Without the protection from the wax, when it rains or snows, beads of water form on the surface of your vehicle, which act as a magnifier for the sun.  Essentially, this will cause the paint to burn in certain areas creating a lightening and darkening effect on the paint. Without a proper wax, sunlight’s UV rays will also infiltrate and can bleach the paint.

Rust Protection:

Without wax, water can get under paint and cause corrosion.  Wax will also protect against rust caused by humidity.

By: Amy Cochren

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

THE BENEFITS OF HONDA’S GENUINE 0W-20 SYNTHETIC MOTOR OIL

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You may or may not be aware that Honda has made a switch to a full synthetic motor oil for all 2011 and newer models.  There are numerous benefits to synthetic oil, and it is important that you, as a Honda customer, know what they are. 

Engines operate at extreme temperatures and require substantial lubrication to operate at their maximum capacity.  Petroleum based motor oils are mineral based, which start to breakdown at high temperatures, shortening the engine life.  Synthetic oils do not break down, which allow for a cleaner running engine.  The thinner viscosity of Honda’s 0W-20 synthetic oil is another important feature.  Oil naturally thickens at lower temperatures and thins at higher, thus, the thinner the viscosity the better.  Since the properties of Honda’s synthetic engine oil are thin, it has a low viscosity, allowing the oil to flow faster and circulate more freely then petroleum based engine oils.  This makes synthetic oil essential to your vehicle’s peak performance, minimizing the wear on your engine’s internal components.  Honda synthetics simply offer better engine protection, performance, and better flow in cold starts then when using traditional motor oil. 

The key features to take away are:

  • Full synthetic formulation provides advanced protection against oil breakdown and a cleaner running engine.
  • Ultra-low viscosity  grade improves fuel economy and power, with reduced friction
  • Superior to conventional motor oils for high and low temperature engine wear and protection
  • Improves cold start protection, which is when most engine wear takes place

If you are interested in Honda’s 0W-20 Synthetic motor oil and are wondering about its compatibility with your vehicle’s engine, or you have any additional questions, please contact us at Image Honda 1-888-375-5914.

By: Amy Cochren

Credit: Honda Canada

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