WAX ON, WAX OFF

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

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

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

The 24th Annual 2011 Sales Awards Banquet for the Hamilton Burlington Automotive Dealers Association

The 24th Annual 2011 Sales Awards Banquet for the Hamilton Burlington Automotive Dealers Association is being held this Wednesday, February 15, 2012.  The event is held annually to bring together dealers and industry partners, as well as recognize Hamilton and Burlington’s top sales producers.

This year we are proud to announce the recipients of this award for our three locations – Image Honda, Queenston on the Mountain and Queenston on Centennial.

Image Honda proudly recognizes Rob Cahunek as this year’s HBADA sales winner for the 3rd year in a row.  Rob has been a sales expert at Image Honda since 2006 and has also been a “sales leader” with Honda Canada Sales Council in 2009/2010.  The runner up for the HBADA Sales award is Andy Hewitt.  Andy has been serving Image Honda’s sales department since 2010, but has been in the automotive industry since 2007. Originally from the U.K., Andy arrived in Canada three years ago.

Queenston on the Mountain is proud to announce Chris Hopf, as this years HBADA Sales Award Winner.  Chris has been a member of the Queenston on the Mountain sales team since 2009.  His goal is to ensure that every customer knows that he is there for them, especially for the long haul. We are also pleased to announce Bill Palmer as this year’s HBADA sales winner runner-up. Bill has 11 years’ experience in automotive sales and leasing of new and pre-owned vehicles.  He has been a member of Queenston on the Mountain’s team since 2010.  His previous work experience includes over 20 years in finance, budget and corporate purchasing. 

Queenston on Centennial’s HBADA sales winner is Billy Zych, who has been with Queenston on Centennial since 1984.  Billy has been in the car business for over 36 years, and has been a Gold GM Sales Marketing Guild member for more than 35 years.  His passions are the car business, his historic Chevy Nova and his family.  The runner up for the 2011 HBADA sales award is Mark Petz, who has been in the car business for 11 years and a member of the Queenston team since 2002.  Mark has been a GM Sales Marketing Guild member for over 5 of those years.  Known as an electronics gadget guy, Mark loves learning new things and he loves selling cars.  He has been quoted as saying, “There is no greater exhilaration then the sweet sound of a customer saying yes!”

Congratulations to all of this year’s recipients and runner-ups!

 

 

By: Amy Cochren

The All New 60/40 Fold Down Seats on the 2012 Honda CR-V

You’re running late for your child’s hockey game because “Darn it” you can’t seem to fit all of their equipment in the car.  Maybe, you’re planning a camping trip up north this coming week-end and aren’t quite sure how you’re going to get up there. How are you going to get the tent, the sleeping bags, the BBQ, the coolers and all that fishing equipment to fit in your vehicle? No wait, you’re a student heading back to university and you need to get all those boxes up to your apartment – Hmm, maybe you can get your parents to help you drive some of the stuff up in their car.  Forget all your stress and worrying when it comes to your vehicles capacity with the new all new 2012 Honda CR-V.

The new CR-V has been redesigned to make your life easier and stress-free!  One of the most compelling new features is the 60/40 fold down seat available on all 2012 models.  This feature is hassle free with the simple pull of a small lever located near the rear tailgate of the car.  All you have to do is simply pull at one of the straps and voila, your CR-V has been transformed.  To show you how simple it is, please view our video below.

Currently- If you come down to Image Honda and test drive the all new 2012 Honda CR-V, you will receive your choice of a $20 Bon Appetit Dining E-Card eligible at any Swiss Chalet, Montana’s, Kelsey’s and Milestone’s across Ontario or 2 movie tickets to any Cineplex Entertainment LP Theatre.  Don’t miss out on this limited time offer!
*Visit our dealership to learn more.

If you would like to schedule a test drive, click here or contact us at Image honda at 1-888-375-5914

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

What To Do If You’re In A Collision?

It’s something none of us care to think about, but something all of us need to be prepared for – a collision.  When this occurs, we experience a flood of emotions and it’s often difficult to think rationally.  That is why it is important that you know exactly what to do in such a circumstance so that you, your vehicle and those involved are properly protected.  First and foremost, you want to ensure that everyone involved is safe and unharmed.  If someone is hurt or you believe the other driver may be guilty of an offence make sure to call the police immediately.  If everyone safe, there are a series of steps you need to take.

  • If you are able to safely move your vehicle, move it to the side of the road or away from oncoming traffic.  If you are unable to, insure that you turn on your hazard lights and place hazard cones around your vehicle if you have them.
  • Always make sure you get the details of the accident!
  1. The make and model of other vehicle
  2. Drivers name, address, telephone number and license
  3. Date and time of accident
  4. Location
  5. How it happened
  6. Are there witnesses?  If so, get there contact information as well.
  7. Make sure to get the insurance information of all the drivers involved.

It should be noted that the Insurance Bureau of Canada provides several resources to help you in case of a collision.  They have developed an accident report form, as well as tips and quizzes on distracted driving.  These are available at http://http://www.ibc.ca/

If you are faced with damages from a collision – Image Honda, Queenston on the Mountain and Queenston on Centennial’s collision centre would be happy to service your needs.  Please contact us at 1-888-440-8577 or visit our websites at http://www.imagehonda.com/ or www.queenstonchev.com

By: Amy Cochren

Credit: Insurance Bureau of Canada http://www.ibc.ca/en/Car_Insurance/What _to_do_Accident.asp