For the majority of the year, driving conditions are pretty tepid. But the true test of your integrity as a car owner, and the quality of your car comes during the winter months. This is when you can truly get punished for not taking care of your car unless you take care of the necessary winter car prep. Between harsh winter weather and the toll the cold, ice, snow, and salt can take, you really have to step up your winter car care game to get your vehicle winter ready.
We don’t want to see you or your car on the side of the road this winter season. The best way to avoid any issues is to make sure your car is ready to take on whatever the next few months have in store. So before things get really rough, here are 5 simple winter car care tips that will help you and your car be ready for the colder months ahead.
Having to wait for a jump in the middle of the cold and possibly snow is up there with the worst things to happen in winter. If you don’t check your battery before the cold weather sets in, you’re really taking a gamble. The extreme cold that we tend to see can make it difficult for your battery to operate. And the last thing you want is to come back to your car left in a cold parking lot and find it dead leaving you with no heat. The best advice you’ll get today is to get a volt test on your battery now. This will tell you what the health of your battery looks like and whether or not you should invest in a new battery.
When it comes to driving in winter, the quality of your tires is paramount. But it’s not just about what kind of tires you have but keeping an eye on your tire pressure as well. Investing in winter tires or all-season tires is a great idea and one we highly recommend. You want something that you can rely on for snow, rain, mud, and anything else you may encounter this year. However, something that gets overlooked often is tire pressure. As the air gets colder, tire pressure can drop up to one pound per square inch with every 10-degree drop. Keep an eye on your tire pressure and make sure you fill them if they are looking low.
Every fluid in your car is going to help it perform the best it can during the colder months. For this reason, it’s very important that all of your fluid levels are good and fresh. Change your oil and filters if it’s coming near time, flush and refill your coolant/antifreeze, and fill your windshield wiper fluid. Doing all of these now will ensure that your car works the way it should even when temperatures drop.
This may seem like a weird thing to do, but it’s surprisingly important. However, this is something that you should do throughout the winter months. As more snow hits the roads, the county will salt those roads in an effort to keep them as clear as possible. But that salt will also end up on your car, especially all over your undercarriage. While the salt really helps the roads, it can wreak havoc on your car and cause rust. That is unless you give it a good wash after a big snow. Both an automatic and manual wash will work, as long as you can hit your undercarriage well.
Everything is all fun and games until your car dies in the middle of a snowstorm. Whether you slid on ice or something happened with your engine, or maybe even ran out of gas, having an emergency kit may just save your life. Depending on the weather and where you are, you definitely need to be prepared for anything. Here are some things you should have packed:
Winter can be a crazy time, but making your vehicle winter ready ahead of time can go a long way. These are just a couple of things you can do, but there’s always more. Do your research and talk with our fantastic service technicians about what you should have done before the colder months are on top of us. Be smart and stay safe this holiday season!
Teachers are some of the hardest working and underrepresented people in our community. It’s about time we recognize them for everything they do for our kids and community. We are happy to partner with Union County Public Schools (UCPS) for its Influencers Program!
The UCPS Influencers Employee Recognition Program began back in December 2019 and was interrupted by COVID-19 in March 2020. The program returned in 2022 with nominations from across the community.
Every month, staff members, parents, and students nominate UCPS employees to receive an award of recognition for the positive work they do in our schools.
In November, we honored Ms. Lana Funderburk the media coordinator at Piedmont Middle School, as well as the receptionist at Health Sciences Academy at Monroe Middle, Beatrice Salas. Both have shown undeniable dedication and positivity and we are so proud of the work they do for our kids. They were recognized at the Board of Education meeting so the entire county could be there to celebrate their accomplishments.
So what was our role in all of this? To show our support, we partnered with UCPS to provide lunch or breakfast for the instructional winner. In November, we provided breakfast for Ms. Lana Funderburk and the entire school staff at Piedmont Middle School.
Our small sign of appreciation for these incredible people is nothing compared to the work they do. It is our honor to recognize teachers and educational staff everywhere. You all deserve more recognition for the dedication and patience you bring with you. Thank you from everyone at Honda of Indian Trail! To learn more about the UCPS Influencers Program, visit https://www.ucps.k12.nc.us/influencers
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Fall is finally here! The weather’s getting cooler, leaves are changing color, all signs that winter is not far behind. And while we may not be able to get you mentally ready for the change of the seasons, we can certainly help you prepare your car for fall and winter! Welcome to Fall Car Care Month at Honda of Indian Trail!
Fall is the perfect time to start checking up on your car. The weather isn’t entirely too cold yet, the Holidays are still a ways off, and you aren’t facing any severe weather conditions. The autumn season is prime for getting out in the garage or bringing your car to our service centers to get everything checked out before the real test of your car’s performance comes.
Now you may be asking yourself, why is it important to check up on your car before winter? Well, dealing with car problems when it’s cold out is just not a great time. And we want you to always have a good time driving your Honda. And while these tips may seem like common sense, you’d be surprised just how often these can fly under the radar and end up causing much more serious problems down the line.
It may seem like a lot to keep track of, but if you follow this Fall car care checklist, you’ll be more than prepared for when the colder months roll around. And if there’s anything you need to replace or you can’t check out yourself, you can always make Honda of Indian Trail a part of your winter car prep by scheduling an appointment with our service center in Charlotte. Make sure you prepare your car for winter right with Honda of Indian Trail!
Summer may be over, but we’re still in the thick of hurricane season. While Florida usually gets the brunt of the storms, there are good chances that those strong residual winds, rains, and other terrifying weather will affect the Charlotte area as well. And when that happens, it’s crucial to protect your Honda from the damage these strong storms can cause.
Storms can cause a lot of damage, especially if you’re unprepared. Falling trees or limbs, hail, debris blown around by the strong winds, and all of this and more can pose significant risks to a car sitting out on the street unprotected. And there’s nothing worse than waking up after a crazy storm to see your car dented or windows cracked or broken as a result. While your favorite local Honda experts at Honda of Indian Trail are here to help repair any damage, we’d rather you avoid that situation completely. So here are some things you can do to keep your Honda out of harm's way!
Strong storms like hurricanes or even severe thunderstorms can produce some crazy weather conditions. These can include hail the size of quarters or larger that can fall at speeds faster than 100 miles per hour, fast and strong winds sometimes reaching speeds of 74 miles per hour, and incredible amounts of heavy rain averaging around 16 inches, all resulting in flooding from storm surges, personal and property damage, and more. If you’ve left your car out on the road in the middle of a hurricane, tropical storm, or even a severe thunderstorm, there’s a good chance that your car will be on the receiving end of some crazy damage from trees, debris, water, and a lot more. We’re here to help give you some tips on how to protect your car in the event of severe weather events and future-proof yourself a bit in the process.
Protecting your car from any potential damage is definitely the first thing you should be thinking about. There are a handful of things you can do to prep your car from the barrage of wind, rain, and more that is bound to come during any severe weather event.
The number one thing you want to do is secure any and all documents as well as personal items. This can include your insurance cards, registration, and any other important papers you may be keeping in your glove box. In the event of flooding, you definitely don’t want any of those papers to receive any severe water damage. Once you’ve got all you wanted to out of your car, you can begin adding layers of protection. Placing foam against the windows secured with duct tape will support your windows during intense winds. Setting your parking brake gives your car something to brace against in the event of flooding and winds. And of course, covering your car with a heavy blanket paired with a tarp will help protect against falling debris or hail. Filling your gas tank is a really good way to give yourself an out if you suddenly need to move your car or evacuate from your house or apartment. All of this, as well as anything else you come up with, will be great ways to protect your car the best you can from damage during a storm.
Knowing where to park your car during a storm can give you a huge advantage and help you avoid serious damage. It should come as no surprise that parking under a tree or next to the water is probably not the greatest idea during an intense storm. You want a place that does more to protect your car and avoid anything that may easily break off and land on said car. Places like covered parking garages are very ideal, as they provide not only nearly complete coverage on all sides but often place your car at a higher elevation which can protect your car from flooding. You definitely want to avoid basement or low-level parking areas, as those will be the first places to flood during heavy rainfall. However, any enclosed parking space will be more ideal than an open-air parking lot, so if you have a parking garage best make use of it. And even if you’re car is protected on all sides, it’s still a good idea to implement all of the layers of protection. More protection is always a good idea.
Before any serious storm, if you’re expecting the chance that your car may be damaged, it may be a good idea to take pictures of the condition of your car BEFORE the storm. Most car insurances do provide a level of natural disaster coverage. However, insurance also typically will look for any reason not to pay out that coverage. If you take pictures of the condition of your car before the storm, you have a solid baseline to compare any damage that may have taken place during the storm. And photo evidence is irrefutable in most cases.
Obviously, it’s not a great idea to head out on the road in the middle of a hurricane or other severe weather event. However, some situations are unavoidable, like having to evacuate from your home or apartment building, or driving back home and you get stuck in a storm. So if you’re going to be driving in the middle of one of the worst situations possible, be smart about it.
The number one thing to avoid is any flooded roads or washed-out bridges. Even if you have a decent off-road vehicle that’s prepared for situations like that, you likely don’t have the necessary training or experience to come out of that unscathed. Find a new route that takes a higher road. Another road hazard to watch for is fallen objects or downed power lines. Storms can bring down a whole manner of branches, whole trees, telephone poles, and power lines that can pose a great risk to you on the road. Don’t take the risk of trying to move the branch and definitely don’t touch downed power lines as they are likely still live and extremely dangerous. Stay in your car and find a way around or a completely new route.
The way you drive will also change depending on the situation. During low visibility and high winds and rain, it’s best to slow down as much as you can. Driving slow allows you to have more time to respond to stalled vehicles or road hazards, while also giving you more control against strong winds.
Hurricanes, tropical storms, and other forms of severe weather are no joke. They’ve accounted for billions of dollars of damage and countless deaths over the years and we don’t want you to fall victim to the increasing danger these severe weather events bring with them. While these tips are not a guarantee that you’ll avoid any and all danger or damage by any means, they are certainly a good start to protecting yourself and your property. To learn more, please visit https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes and stay safe out there! Remember, a car is replaceable, you are not.
The efficiency of your car's braking system is critical when it comes to vehicle safety. One of your car's most critical safety features is its braking system, and properly maintained brakes can mean the difference between preventing an accident and a possible accident. Since your brakes are so critical, the last thing you want to do is put off maintenance or let them deteriorate.
While most people believe that your car's brakes are responsible for stopping it, the truth is a little more complicated. The friction between your tires and the road is what causes your car to slow down and stop. The brakes are in charge of preventing the wheels from spinning uncontrollably. The brake pads and brake discs are responsible for creating the resistance required to induce this action, and the discs wear out each time your vehicle brakes.
Any time you step on the brake pedal, thousands of pounds of rapidly moving metal are stopped by these machines. As a result, they will finally wear out, just it's a question of time. Knowing the following warning signs will help you avoid costly brake service costs.
Brakes are known for making noise because they consume a huge amount of energy. However, if the unit squeaks, squeals, or grinds regularly, it will need to be changed or replaced. Grinding noises are especially worrying, as they frequently mean that the brake pads are worn out and should be replaced as soon as possible. Failure to do so may result in irreversible rotor damage, which is much more costly than the pads.
If you attempt to stop and your pedal, steering wheel, or entire vehicle vibrates or shakes, your rotors can be bent and need to be replaced. It may also be necessary to get them resurfaced, which can significantly reduce brake service costs.
If your foot brake does not feel solid when applied or begins to sink to the floor when you come to a complete stop, there's a fluid leak robbing your hydraulics system of the pressure it needs to work properly. It's also possible that your master cylinder is worn out or leaking, necessitating replacement. In any case, a brake repair specialist should be contacted right away.
When you come to a halt, if your car pulls to one side or the other, the stopping mechanism may be misaligned. The good news is that fixing this issue is quick and inexpensive. A brake service specialist must change the unit. However, if you ignore the issue, it will almost certainly result in uneven wear, which will affect the operation of your vehicle and lead to more expensive future repairs.
When you ride your brakes hard, such as down a steep, winding slope, you can find a burning smell coming from the vehicle. However, if you detect a foul odor while driving regularly, there may be a serious problem. The problem is usually a seized caliper piston that causes the stopping system to drag. To correct the hitch before permanent damage occurs, immediate brake service is needed.
Brake service is essential for the safety and performance of your vehicle. Whether you need a routine inspection, a fluid flush, or a complete replacement, you can trust the experts at Honda of Indian Trail to provide quality service at a fair price. Schedule your appointment today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with having reliable brakes.
What to Bring to the Dealership when Buying a Car
Are you unsure what to carry when purchasing a vehicle? What happens if you're about to sign a lease? You'll be in a great place to get the price you want and get back on the road if you arrive at your local dealership with all of the appropriate paperwork.
Bringing all the necessary documents to the dealership will help speed up the purchase or lease process and get you back home with a new vehicle. What you'll need depends on what you want to do at the dealership, but it's never a bad idea to carry something just in case.
You eventually settle on the car you want to purchase after much study and deliberation. Following the contract's signing with the car dealership, the registration and insurance procedures must be completed. The amount of paperwork involved in registering a car can be overwhelming. This contains the following:
Here's a short rundown of what you'll need on the day of the sale's conclusion.
This is important for a couple of reasons. To act as identification, you'll need your driver's license. Second, you're probably going to drive the car off the lot. It is not recommended that you leave your driver's license at home.
Some dealerships recommend that customers have vehicle insurance on hand. Bring all necessary paperwork with you and contact your agent to find out how your new car's insurance process will work.
To complete the transaction, the buyer must have a piece of mail from their current address. A utility bill or your home's lease or mortgage agreement are the most popular forms of proof of residence. This is to demonstrate that the bills will be sent to the correct address every month.
Obviously, you won't be able to drive your new car off the lot without first paying for it. Be certain to ask the dealer about their preferred payment form. Some establishments do not allow checks, so it's a good idea to inquire ahead of time.
It's best to have all of your old car's paperwork available if you're looking to trade it in for a new one. Since all the paperwork can be done in a single day, the process is sped up, and delays are avoided. Now is the time to clean out your old car. Don't wait until you've arrived at the dealership or used car lot to begin removing your personal belongings from your old vehicle.
Buying a car comes with its own set of issues due to different rules and regulations. There is a protocol that must be followed to ensure that you are safe in the event of any mishaps. The documents needed to purchase a new car in India must be carefully examined. All the information is, however, available online, and the dealers are extremely helpful. This means that you have more choices when purchasing a new vehicle, whether it's selecting a dealer, negotiating the best price, selecting the best insurance plan, financing, and so on.
How to do your Part to Support Environmental Protection
Saving and protecting the environment is not something that can be done fast but requires several years of pain-staking efforts to do so. Unfortunately, it takes very little time to ruin the efforts made. There is no age group or segment of the population that is significantly responsible, everyone’s effort counts.
Here are several ways you can take care of your own destiny while still protecting our climate and ecosystems:
Taking environmental protection initiatives can go a long way, whether it's something small like starting a neighborhood clean-up group or creating a broad social organization with substantial scope and effect. Many active youth-led environmental organizations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are leading by example today. If you don't feel up to it, you can always help the environment by volunteering with local non-profits and supporting environmental community groups. You can contribute several ways, from running online awareness programs to providing practical assistance such as beach clean-ups and fundraising activities.
What do you do with your no-longer-needed textbooks and novels? Why not give them to juniors, local kids, or send them to countries where children have little or no access to educational resources? Although books on a bookshelf aren't doing any harm, why not save money by repurposing them?
Similarly, recycling unwanted paper reduces the demand for raw materials in the paper industry, preserving trees and forest habitats. Paper is no longer needed for anything, from online assignments to writing exams, thanks to technological advances. We can easily move away from paper-based operations at all levels by using smart technologies currently available.
Recycling is an easy but efficient way to save energy and lower your personal carbon footprint. Separate your plastic, paper, and metal waste and place it in a recycling bin instead of dumping it all in the garbage. Recycling contributes to a circular economy by reducing landfill emissions, raw material usage, and fossil fuel consumption.
Did you know that freshwater makes up just 0.03 percent of the 70 percent of the water available to us? As a result, conserving water is important for freshwater habitats. You can save gallons of water by doing basic things like taking shorter baths, avoiding small clothes washers, and turning off your taps while brushing! Similarly, it's important to be aware of your electricity use and make adjustments to minimize the demand for energy production and conserve fossil fuel resources. Although public and private agencies prepare to transition to sustainable alternatives, we can reduce our dependence on fossil fuels by doing our part at home and work.
Finally, consider your buying patterns. Do you have a habit of buying too many things? Will you do without any of the things you buy regularly? Are you a conscientious shopper? Buying more to take advantage of enticing deals or discounts would cost us and the environment more. Whether it's groceries, clothing, shoes, or home goods, buying only what you need eliminates waste production and, as a result, emissions. Since natural resources are small, our unsustainable consumption can backfire and jeopardize the biodiversity of our planet.
It is never too late to make efforts towards environment preservation. For Volunteering opportunities go to https://volunteer.appalachiantrail.org/s/volunteer-project-search for more information.
Honda Civic Hatchback Compared to the Honda Civic SI Sedan
Compared to the outgoing model, the new Civic, both in hatchback and sedan avatars, appears to be miles ahead. Many updates can be seen on the new vehicle, and this write-up will give a closer look at how the newer versions mark the birth of a new generation. There will also be a comparison between the Honda Civic hatchback and SI sedan here.
Trims:
Trims in the hatchback are expected to be EX, EX-L, Sport Touring, Type R, LX, and Sport. The sedan will be available as LX, EX-L, EX, Touring, and Sport. The Honda Civic hatchback is one of the bestselling compact cars of al l time, especially in the US. Interestingly, the SI is lighter than the hatchback in terms of curb weight.
Engines and Performance:
Expect both vehicles to be fitted with the same 1.5 liter, 4-cylinder turbo engine. However, transmissions are different; while the hatch comes with CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), the sedan is available with a 6-speed manual gearbox. As expected, the hatchback is more fuel efficient than the latter.
While the 2021 Honda Civic hatchback engine can generate the 174 hp of power, the 2020 Honda Civic SI gets a higher power figure of 205 hp. Both cars work as per front wheel drive. Incidentally, SI stands for Sports Injected, and this version has been discontinued for 2021.
Adaptive dampers have been fitted on the 2020 Honda Civic SI. This is meant to change when one gets into Sports mode on this vehicle, thereby ensuring better handling and ride quality. Braking distance from 60-0 on the 2021 Honda Civic hatchback is only 111 feet.
Exterior Appearance:
Other than one being a hatch and the other a sedan, there aren’t many exterior differences between the cars. Black inserts around the grille and the lights separate the SI sedan from other Civic models. Projector beam headlights are standard across all trims on both cars. LED daytime running lamps are also standard.
The front is nicely rounded to give the two vehicles great aerodynamics and a sporty appearance. EX and Sport Touring trims in the hatch get body colored heated mirrors. The radio inside can be used easily with the help of a shark fin antenna. The hatch’s Sport trim also gets dual exhausts with chrome tips at the rear.
Interior Appearance:
Excellent sound is the hallmark inside the Honda Civic SI. It comes with a 10-speaker, 450W sound system to make every drive a pleasurable one. Hard plastics have been used on the doors of the Honda Civic SI. Manually adjustable cloth seats are available on the hatchback, and taller passengers may wish to get better legroom here.
An 8-way powered driver’s seat is available on the EX trim and above of the hatchback.
Safety Features:
The Honda Civic SI comes with several Honda Sensing safety technologies. Safety features listed below are common for both vehicles:
It’s hard to choose one vehicle from the above based only on space. However, those who want sporty handling and do not mind choosing a vehicle that is a year old should look at the Civic SI, since Honda doesn’t make it anymore.
St. Patrick's Day 2021 in Indian Trail, NC
St Patrick’s Day is regarded as one of the most important events for Irish Americans. It is held in reverence of the foremost patron saint of Ireland. Although original to Ireland, it is now celebrated across multiple cities in the Anglosphere.
There are several events lined up on St Patrick's Day in Indian Trail in North Carolina. The events allow the participants to taste authenticity and culture. You also experience an entertaining time out there with regular parties and bar crawling. The day also marks visitors to attend the St Patrick's Day Cruise Parties in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Here are some celebrations available on St Patrick's Day in 2021 in Indian Trail, North Carolina.
Drinking gets more fun with you hopping from one place to the other. The official St Patrick’s Bar Crawl event allows you to sip on your favorite drinking buddies, cast some greens, and join the Shenanigans at the Bar Crawl. You get to taste beer and delicacies of authentic Irish descent. Explore a wide range of beers and other alcoholic drinks and enrich your celebration to making it a memorable one.
Day crawl is the opportunity to start enjoying early in the day, i.e., without having to wait too long for the evening to begin sipping on your favorite malt beverage or alcohol. Lucky's St Patrick's Day Crawl brings you the option of celebrating the event before nightfall and makes the best of the occasion by drinking in multiple pubs.
In the event, you also get free drinks with ticket purchases, custom lucky badges, lanyards, bottle opener key chains, and a lot more. Professional photography is something that will add a lot of value to your visit there.
The pub crawl is the most celebrated event on St Patrick's Day in Indian Trail, North Carolina. The 20th Annual St Patrick Day Pub Crawl is another option for those who wish to hop and from one bar to another, sipping on their favorite alcoholic beverage.
On this year's occasion, Rich and Bennett are going to paint the town green. Built-in 2001, a period of two decades have elapsed, giving the participants an immense amount of opportunity for the celebration.
The pub has grown to become the world's largest pub crawl. Not only locals but also visitors from Brazil and Ireland visit the place to celebrate the event and take their celebration to the next level.
What's new for the 2021 Honda Pilot?
Anyone who likes good looking vehicles must consider the 2021 Honda Pilot, which has been given excellent exterior and interior features in its latest avatar. This crossover SUV presents the best combination between style and comfort, especially on the outside. A few new developments in the 2021 range are available, which will be visible during this write-up.
An excellent mix of ruggedness and refinement can be seen in this crossover. It is surely a modern SUV for many families in the US.
Variants on Offer:
Buyers will be able to select from the following variants of the 2021 new Honda Pilot:
Among these, the Special Edition is an all-new trim, meant to offer buyers several modern features.
Available Colors:
Black Edition and Elite variants get All Wheel Drive (AWD) as standard, while it is optional on the others. The following colors are on offer:
Maximum Power and Engine Performance:
The engine being used here is the 3.5 liter Direct Injection i-VTEC V6 petrol powerplant, same as that in 2019. It can generate 280 hp of power and 262 pound feet of peak torque. A new change in 2021 is that all variants now come with the same 9-speed Automatic Transmission.
Exterior Outlook:
The Honda Pilot already got several changes in 2019, which included:
Due to these, no changes have been made to the exterior style for the 2021 editions. New fog lights, a trapezoidal grille, and newly designed headlights are visible in the front. Its reverse lights illuminate in a U-pattern, and higher trims get a new rear garnish.
LED headlights enhance the presence of the Touring and Elite models. 20 -inch alloy wheels can also be seen here. In comparison, one can see the base LX trim comes with 18-inch alloys.
Interior Outlook:
The latest features that have been made standard across all trims of the 2021 Honda Pilot, and they are:
The steering wheel used in this vehicle in 2019 was brand new and will also be present in 2021 models. Other interior features are as follows:
Safety Technologies:
According to Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the 2021 Honda Pilot gets a top safety rating. Honda comes with a safety program titled Honda Sensing, which consists of:
The car’s own safety features include a Rear Privacy Glass and Auto high beam headlights.
21 Influential African American Leaders Near India Trail, NC
You must have read about African American History and its leaders. Going back into the pages of Black History gives us a chance to reflect on the past. Here are 21 of the most influential African American leaders for you to know and keep yourself motivated throughout your lives:
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How Often Should You Rotate Car Tires?
Whenever you are driving on the road, the tires rotate, so what exactly does tire rotation mean? How frequently should a tire rotation be done? Tire rotation implies where you have taken off all four tires of your car and put them into a different position. This straightforward activity significantly affects your tires’ longevity and even has a well-being advantage, making it a vital necessity for all vehicle owners. If you're interested in knowing how often your tires should be rotated and why, keep on reading.
Do you really need to rotate your car tires?
Yes, tire rotation is an essential part of vehicle maintenance. The tires suffer wear and tear differently, depending on which wheels the engine and transmission are driving, which could be the front wheels only (front-wheel-drive or FWD), or the wheels at the back (rear-wheel-drive or RWD), or some variety of all four (all-wheel-drive or AWD), depending on your vehicle. Regardless of the wheels on which the car is driven, tire rotation naturally increases comfort, well-being, and your tires' longevity. These advantages signify a superior vehicle ownership experience, which is essential for why it's so critical to do it routinely.
How many times should you be rotating your tires?
This answer to the question will depend on whom you are asking. For a few specialists, it’s ideal to do every 3,000 miles, while others may say you can drive till 8,000 miles before thinking about rotation. No matter how many miles your drive, rotating your tires once every six months is a good option.
Tires wear somewhat better depending on the tire itself, your driving style, and a couple of other different variables. You should check your tread depth at around 5,000 miles if you really want to avoid any risks. If your front tire’s tread depth has a big difference compared to your back tires, or the other way around, consider rotating them. However, if there is a minor difference or even unnoticeable, your tire rotations can wait for the time being.
The tread depth can be checked with a little apparatus you can find at any automotive parts store that can fit into your glove box or even a penny is good enough; place the penny upside-down in your tire’s middle tread, check how far up the tire rises, and visually contrast that depth with the remaining tires.
If you are in doubt — or if you haven't been monitoring how many miles you've driven since the last time you rotated your tires— get your tires rotated each time you get an oil change. By doing so, you don’t need to revisit the shop if these two jobs are done together; thereby, you can save your time and your money, in the long run.
Final Thoughts: Something about the AWD:
The AWD has become normal, so drivers often think whether tire rotation is necessary if your vehicle or SUV has AWD. The appropriate response is yes, you need to because most AWD frameworks aren’t driving all four wheels all the time. Most of the AWD’s are "part-time," which implies they favor either FWD or RWD until the framework identifies a requirement for more traction and turns on the other wheels temporarily when necessary. Similar practices utilized for tire rotation on a 2-wheel-drive vehicle should be utilized on an AWD vehicle to guarantee an even wear design on every tire, thereby increasing their tread life.
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How do you normally spend time during the holiday season in winter? The first thought that comes to the minds of a lot of people is travel. Then there is the practice of drinking hot chocolate in the morning, along with sitting next to fires after dark, which could happen at a new destination. So, assuming that you will be traveling this winter as well, ensure that you practice caution while driving in the cold.
How to drive safely in winter
Severe weather can be difficult and frightening for many travelers. You need to be prepared for any kind of eventuality during this season. Although it isn’t possible to anticipate everything, the following basic precautions will keep you safe more often than not:
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Winter has arrived in the Northern Hemisphere, and individuals will have to pay more attention to their cars than they do in summer. When the temperature becomes cold, there can be a few pestering issues such as frozen fuel lines and dead batteries. Make sure you keep the following tips in hand for a trouble-free winter:
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The exterior and interior features of the 2021 Honda Pilot make it one of the best crossover SUVs in the US. Interiors showcase the marriage between comfort and style, while the exteriors help create a positive impression while arriving at any location. An excellent mix of ruggedness and refinement can be seen in this crossover. It is surely a modern SUV for many families.
Different variants
The new Honda Pilot will be available in the following variants:
AWD (All Wheel Drive) are standard in the Elite and Black Edition trims and are an option on all the others. You can choose your shade of the Pilot from the options given below:
Power and performance
Power in the 2021 Honda Pilot is delivered by the same engine as the 2019 model. This is the 3.5-liter Direct Injection i-VTEC V6 petrol engine that generates 280 hp of power and 262 feet of torque. For 2021, engines in all variants will be mated to a 9-speed Automatic Transmission with paddle shifters, making it a lot of fun to drive this vehicle.
Exteriors
The Honda Pilot last went in for a design change in 2019, and the changes included updated rear and front designs, a brand-new infotainment system, and a revamped cabin. No styling changes have been made, although its design last year received mixed reactions from viewers and buyers.
At the front, you will see a trapezoidal grille and new fog lights, as well as updated headlights. The back of this vehicle showcases repositioned reverse lights that light up in a U-pattern and a brand-new rear garnish on the higher trims.
LED headlights have been made available with Touring and Elite models. These are also fitted with 20 -inch alloy wheels, while the LX trim comes with 18-inch alloys.
Interiors
In 2019, the Honda Pilot got a brand-new steering wheel, and the same one will be used for 2021. Apart from this, other interior features in this crossover SUV include:
Safety technologies
Honda’s safety program is called as Honda Sensing. It consists of the following revolutionary technologies:
As per IIHS, the 2021 Honda Pilot has received a top safety rating.
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Indian Trail is one of the most highly regarded suburbs surrounding the Charlotte metropolitan area. Listed below are a handful of activities available in the area to travelers and locals alike. Read on and experience something new this weekend.
If you are in the market for a sleek new car or a quality used vehicle to explore the greater Charlotte area, look no further than our online inventory. We look forward to helping you get behind the wheel of your new car.
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Q: Where can I find my radio code?
A: Your radio code is located in your owner's manual. You may also find it on a sticker located in your glove box. Unfortunately, the easiest way to get a new radio code if you cannot find yours is to set up an appointment with our service department. Luckily for you, our technicians work fast to get our customers in and out quickly, so something like a radio code should take no time at all with an appointment.
Q: How is it possible to contact Honda Financial Services?
A: Customer Service Reps can be contacted at 1800-708-6555, five days a week from Monday to Friday from 9 to 5 local time. To obtain the contact information for the regional office, you need to choose your exact product and the state from which you originally made your purchase.
You can log into your HFS account to make payments, view history, change account details, check online statements and much more.
Q: How often should you do an oil change?
A: This largely depends on the type of car you drive and the type of driving you do. However, a good rule of thumb is to get your oil changed every 3,000 - 4,000 miles (4 - 6 months). You should be able to find the manufacturer recommendation for your specific vehicle in your owner’s manual.
Q: How do I use Honda Roadside Assistance?
A: Honda Roadside Assistance is a 24-hour emergency service available to you in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico throughout your 3-year/36,000-mile warranty term. This coverage starts with 2015 vehicles, or 3-year/unlimited miles for Clarity Fuel Cell and Electric owners.
To make use of these services, call 1-866-864-5211. If you are a Clarity Fuel Cell or Electric driver, call 1-866-372-5139.
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It's Halloween, and all throughout the world, pumpkins are being cut, kids are creating homemade costumes, and loads of candy is being eaten. With so many spooky things to catch the eye this time of year, it can be easy to forget about the iconic cars that have come from previous Halloween-time blockbusters.
What follows is a collection of four of the most iconic cars featured in spooky films over the years.
The Munsters’ Koach
The Munsters’ “Koach”, which was produced using 3 Ford Model T bodies and was more than 18 feet in length, continued to be a popular show that ran over two years for 20 episodes. The characters were defined as being very spooky and odd. Obviously, the concept was that they were a typical American family, so it seemed well and good for the Koach to be something extraordinary. The V8 motor was pulled from an AC Cobra to add a little more power. So, behind all the bells and whistles, the Koach really was the real deal!
Ghostbusters’ Ecto-1
The Ecto-1, similar to the Ghostbusters franchise, was the ideal vehicle for busting phantoms and different supernatural entities. If you think about utility cars, this was a prime example. This vehicle was a combo of an ambulance and traditional car and was the ideal kind of auto for the group, with enough space to carry all the vital gear, including Ecto Goggles, P.K.E. Meters, and Proton Packs! While the original plan was to make the vehicle black, with several of the movie scenes being recorded around evening time, the vehicle was changed over to white, and film history was changed forever.
Scooby Doo’s Mystery Machine
One of the most conspicuous television and film vehicles ever, the Mystery Machine, was the vehicle picked by 'Puzzle Inc' for this adventure series. The van, owned by Fred, is a blend of a couple of sixties-style vans, while still remaining timeless in its design. The vehicle can be seen full of all sorts of gears; however, they have a full table and seats set up in the back for the entire group to kick back and solve crimes. While the general tone of the show was more satire than dreadful, the otherworldly components of the arrangement, and the unbelievable status of the van itself, earns the Mystery Machine a spot on this elite list.
The Creepy Coupe from Wacky Races
Wacky Races is a very much cherished kid's show of the past. The show itself isn't unpleasant or creepy by any stretch of the imagination. However, one machine, the Creepy Coupe, is amongst the eleven cars participating in the race for “The Wackiest Racer” title. The vehicle is a funeral wagon that consists of loads of creepy animals, including bats, phantoms, and obviously, a huge mythical dragon up top, which blows fire towards any unfortunate racer in front of it. Wacky Races only ran for an unimpressive seventeen episodes. However, the Creepy Coupe is, by a wide margin, the spookiest vehicle in the race and on the screen.
We may not have the Mystery Machine or the Creepy Coupe, but we do have one of the highest quality selections of new and pre-owned vehicles in the greater Charlotte, NC area. Reach out to one of our representatives today to get behind the wheel of your next ride.
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There is no Halloween without jack-o-Lanterns littering the streets. While it is relatively easy to carve a pumpkin, having a clear plan certainly helps, particularly when it is your first time. That’s why we prepared this guide, to help you carve the perfect decorative pumpkin.
Buying the Right Pumpkin
Pumpkins come in different varieties, and, believe it or not, the one you buy to carve makes a difference. During Halloween, you will get pumpkins labeled “carving pumpkins.” These are not only sturdier than pie pumpkins but also have fewer seeds. Moreover, the graininess of carving pumpkins seeds make them easier to clean on the inside.
When looking for carving pumpkins, make sure you pick one that is sturdy. To check the sturdiness of your pumpkin, simply tap on the surface; if you hear a hollow sound, then you have chosen the right pumpkin.
Pumpkin Prep
No matter how organized you are, things will get a little messy at some point during this process; therefore choosing a workstation that can get a little dirty is key. Regardless of whether you chose to work on the ground or on a table, layering your surface up with butcher paper or newspaper is always a good idea. This way, all the mess will be collected on the layered surface, making it easier for you to clean up at the end.
The next step is to get all the tools ready so you do not need to keep moving back and forth with your messy hands to get the tools from a separate area. To properly carve a pumpkin, you will need:
Cleaning Out the Pumpkin
To clean the pumpkin, you have to make an opening on the top. Using a sharpie or marker, outline a round lid around the stem with a diameter of around 4 to 5 inches. In order to make it easier, you can add a notch at the back. Then, using a slim carving knife or serrated knife, cut along the drawn circular line. Ensure to slice through at roughly a 45-degree inward angle to make it easier to take off the lid once you’re done.
Put your hands inside and remove the seeds and put them in a bowl. Now, scoop out the remaining guts of the pumpkin using a scraper or ladle. Clean it out until no stringy bits are left inside. Lastly, take a kitchen towel and wipe the outer surface of the pumpkin. This will make it easier for you to carve on it.
Carving Out the Design
Similar to the above step, use your sharpie or marker to draw the design on the pumpkin. This will make it easier to cut out the shapes. Using a sharp knife make straight cuts along with the drawn surface and remove the pieces as you go.
Additionally, using your wire tool or X-ACTO knife scrape out the jagged lines or stringy bits that may have occurred while carving. In the end, you should have a clean design.
Your jack-o-lantern is ready; all you have to do is light it up. Open the lid and place the tea light candle at the bottom and light up using your lighter or long match.
Remember, pumpkin patches aren’t always easy to get to. If you are in the market for an ultra-capable SUV, a sleek sedan, or anything any between, reach out to one of our representatives today to get the ball rolling.
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Service and parts may not be cheap, but they don’t have to be as expensive as you think. Honda in Indian Trail offers its customers some of the most creative services & parts financing options in the greater Charlotte area.
The financing options found at Honda of Indian Trail make it really simple to purchase parts. Simply follow the steps below and you are good to go.
What Are the Requirements to Receive Financing?
First, a prequalification assessment is done to see if you qualify for financing parts or services. In order to complete this, you will need to give the following information to Honda in Indian Trail:
One of the other prequalification requirements is that you must be of age 18 years or older. It is also a necessity that customers possess a physical street address or an AFO/APO address. Successful prequalification will enable you to see monthly payments, APR, and your complete list of charges. A fully completed prequalification assessment will remain valid for 14 days.
Financing Parts or Services Before Your Prequalification Expires
This can be done by presenting your driver’s license or state ID, making the necessary down payment with your debit card, and choosing a method by which to make your recurring payments. Terms presented at the start of the prequalification period have to be consistently met throughout the duration of your financing agreement.
A Couple of Things to Remember While Filling Out Your Financing Forms
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