OEM VS. AFTERMARKET PARTS

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!

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

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

Have You Driven the 2012 Honda CR-V?

Are you looking for a new vehicle? One that can provide luxury and top of the line features without having to pay big bucks for the upgrades?  Take a look at the all-new 2012 Honda CR-V, the top-selling import SUV, built right here in Canada. 

Available for the lowest price in over a decade, the 2012 CR-V has a wide range of features tailored to meet your needs. I had the opportunity to test-drive one and I have to say it exceeded all of my expectations. Before even entering the vehicle, I was struck by its sporty compact appearance and sleek lines.  I almost forgot that the CR-V is classified as a compact SUV. 

Going above and beyond, Honda has created an affordable vehicle that includes real time All-Wheel Drive with intelligent control, Ecological Assist System,  Intelligent Multi-information Display (iMid), heated front seats, easy fold-down 60/40 split rear back seat, multi-angle rear view camera with guidelines and hands-free bilingual Bluetooth, which are available on ALL base models.  The new CR-V has set the bar with its improved fuel economy and state of the art technology – you simply can’t go wrong.

In addition to the many new features it provides, you can’t discount how the car handles.  It makes for a smooth and quiet ride.  Although you have the benefit of being elevated, you feel as though you are driving a car.

If you’re considering purchasing a new vehicle, I strongly recommend you take the 2012 CR-V for a test drive – you won’t be disappointed!  Please visit us at Image Honda or call us at 1-888-375-5914 to schedule your test drive in the all-new 2012 Honda CR-V!

 

By: Amy Cochren

Credit: Honda Canada