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

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

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!

Questions Everyone Should Ask When Buying A New Vehicle

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

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