Thursday, August 30, 2012
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Should Honda Build a 2013 Honda Accord Convertible?
When the 2013 Honda Accord was revealed a few weeks ago it got us thinking. The Accord has been one of the best-selling models in America for years, yet Honda has been hesitant to expand the model lineup beyond the basic coupe and sedan. Sure, there was the original hatchback, a wagon in the early '90s and even the recent Accord Crosstour experiment. But what about something a little more interesting? Something that might inject some life into Honda when it needs it the most? What about a 2013 Honda Accord Convertible?
With that in mind we asked some of our industry sources if such a vehicle had been considered for the latest Accord lineup. Sure enough, they said there was some internal discussion about just such a car. But as far as they could tell, that's about as far as the convertible got.
In fact, when we asked a Honda official if any Accord convertible prototypes existed, he responded with a light-hearted, "Yes! And the really cool thing about them is that at speeds over 60 mph, the wheels retract and high-efficiency jets pop out." We took that as a no, and he confirmed that rumors about such prototypes are "purely fictional."
The idea stuck in our heads, though, so our in-house Photoshop artist created a couple renderings of what an Accord convertible would look like. The result is an attractive look for the new Accord, with clean lines and a refined shape that convertible buyers in this category would likely find enticing.
And let's face it, the category is ripe for the taking. Consider what a Honda Accord convertible would be up against. The Camaro and Mustang convertibles are most often considered performance cars or kids convertibles, while the Chrysler 200 is either a rental car or an old person's car depending on whom you ask. Sure, there are more refined drop tops for more money (G37, Lexus IS 250 C, etc.) but an Accord convertible would appeal to those looking to have a little fun without appearing like they cashed out of their kids' college funds to do it.
Seems reasonable to us. Then again, we don't have to engineer the thing, but a basic soft-top mechanism shouldn't be that hard to work up. Honda did a fine job with the S2000's lid. Speaking of which, that car has been out of production for a few years, so it's high time Honda gets back into the convertible game once again. What do you think? Would this convertible be a good addition to the Accord family?
Source: InsideLine
Monday, August 27, 2012
Monday Maintenance Tip: Cleaning Your Air Filter
What is it?
The air filter stops airborne contaminants from getting sucked into your car's engine. It's a paper filter that stops debris such as dust, leaves and wayward pelicans before they get inside the engine and do damage.
Should I do this service when it's recommended?
Yes.
Why do I have to do this?
Because, eventually, your air filter will get plugged up.
What happens if I don't do this?
If your air filter gets too dirty or clogged, your engine won't be able to suck enough air into the combustion chambers. The engine will then run rich (i.e., too much gas and not enough air). When this happens, your car will lose power and run roughly. Your Check Engine light also may come on.
If you really neglect the air filter for a long time, your car may stop running altogether. While permanent damage is unlikely, it is possible. If an air filter were sufficiently dirty and damaged, it could allow harmful, abrasive contaminants into the combustion chamber.
Is there any maintenance required between intervals?
If you operate your car under severe duty, such as frequent driving on dirt roads or a lot of stop-and-go driving around town, then you should halve the recommended service intervals for the inspection and replacement of the air filter.
Car Talk Tip: Inspecting and replacing your air filter is an easy task. Almost anyone can do it ... with the possible exception of Jerry Springer. By purchasing the filter directly from an auto parts store, you can sometimes save $10 or more, in addition to the labor costs.
Courtesy: CarTalk.com
Thursday, August 23, 2012
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
"Car Tip of the Week": Checking Your Brake Lights
Hey fans, this week’s “Car Tip of the Week” really comes in handy when you want to check your brake lights but there isn't anyone around to help.
This tip will make it surprisingly easy if you want to check your brake lights without the help of someone else. All you have to do is take one end of a broomstick and depress the brake pedal while propping the other end firmly against the seat cushion. Now you can walk around back and check your brake lights!
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
First 2013 Honda Accords Rolls Off Production Line at Marysville Plant in Ohio
It’s a big week at Honda’s Marysville Auto Plant, where production of the 2013 Honda Accord has now begun. With the new midsize sedan now rolling through the assembly line, Honda has been manufacturing in the U.S. for 30 years.
The ninth-generation Accord is the latest Honda since the second-generation Accord to be produced at the Marysville facility since the company since 1982. The 2013 Honda Accord will go on sale in September, using an Earth Dreams 2.4-liter four-cylinder paired to a new CVT or a six-speed manual. The 3.5-liter V-6, which will debut after the four-banger, will be coupled to a new six-speed manual or automatic transmission.
In addition to the Accord’s redesigned exterior and interior, Honda is banking big on its new transmissions. The automaker invested $220 million to launch production of the parts in the U.S. The transmission plant, which started building the CVTs for the Accord last week, operates on a new, “highly automated” assembly line that was part of a $70 million, 200,000-sq-ft expansion. Another $50 million has been invested in the same facility for extra aluminum casting operations.
The Anna engine plant, which is where the engines are paired to the transmissions, is also currently under construction to make more space for CVT pulley component production. Currently produced in Japan, the CVT components will start production at the Anna engine plant next year. With capacity to build 1.2 million I-4 and V-6 engines a year, the facility is also the largest auto engine factory in Honda’s global production network.
The 2013 Honda Accord will launch with available features including a forward collision warning system, LED daytime running lights, and a blind-spot monitoring system. Whether you opt for a 2013 Accord with the I-4 or V-6, Honda will offer an available six-speed manual transmission.
Source: Honda Media
Monday, August 20, 2012
Monday Maintenance Tip: Rotating Your Tires
What is this?
We know that all tires rotate. But we're talking about another kind of rotation -- rotating tires to different corners of the car and maybe even reversing the direction in which they turn.
Many tires are rotated front-to-back and side-to-side, but some tires are directional, which means they're only supposed to turn in one direction. They have to stay on the same side of the car. Directional tires often have arrows on the tire's sidewall to show you the direction in which they should turn.
If you're not sure which kind of tires you have, check with your mechanic.
Should I do this service when it's recommended?
You should do this service only if you can do it for $20 or less, in our opinion.
The financial benefit of rotating tires is that you'll increase the useful life of the tire. But if you pay more than about $20, you'll probably wipe out any savings you might have gained.
Instead, ask your mechanic to rotate your tires when they're already off your car for another service, such as a brake repair. That way, you won't have to pay extra -- unless your mechanic is a jerk.
Why do I have to do this?
You don't have to rotate your tires. But by rotating them, you will increase your tires' life because they'll wear more evenly.
What happens if I don't do this?
Nothing bad will happen, but you'll get fewer miles out of your tires.
Is there any maintenance required between intervals?
No.
Car Talk Tip: Don't forget Newton's Seventh Law: Tires in balance tend to stay in balance. If you're having your tires rotated, don't pay extra to have them rebalanced. You probably won't need it. Have your tires rebalanced only if you feel a shimmy or vibration.
Courtesy: CarTalk.com
Thursday, August 16, 2012
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
Russell & Smith Honda has the perfect new car for you!
Honda has distinguished itself as one of America's favorite automotive brands by delivering unwavering dependability and efficiency through its one-of-a-kind innovation and design. Join the millions across the world that are in love with their Honda.
Click here to find the Honda that suits you bestTuesday, August 14, 2012
All-New 2013 Honda Accord Will Debut with Premium and Sophisticated Exterior Styling
Honda today revealed the first images of the much anticipated all-new 2013 Honda Accord Sedan and Accord Coupe, set to go on sale this fall. The most sculpted Accord ever delivers an even more spacious and luxurious passenger cabin wrapped in an upscale, sophisticated exterior designed to stand the test of time.
The 2013 Accord's styling is expressive, sophisticated and premium. Starting in the front, a bold new grille imparts a distinctive and dynamic tension that complements the powerful look of the hood's multiple styling lines. A strong side character line flows through the door handles and flares upward toward the rear of the vehicle to further convey a sense of motion. A deep contour in the rocker panel firmly grounds its visual presence to the road and smartly turns upward to convey a sporty attitude. In the back, the inward slope where the fenders taper into the trunk and C-pillars is designed to convey a powerful, athletic stance from the rear.
True to the spirit of Honda and every Accord before it, the ninth-generation embraces a customer focus from the inside out. Smart interior packaging allows for increased passenger and cargo space in both the sedan and the coupe, while the overall exterior lengths are noticeably shortened, contributing to a sportier driving character and easier parking. An expansive greenhouse and generous rear seating area provide excellent levels of visibility and comfort for the driver and all passengers.
"This car is the most sculpted and the most dynamic Accord yet," said Vicki Poponi, assistant vice president of product planning for American Honda. "Following Honda's long-held philosophy of 'man maximum, machine minimum,' the beautiful exterior evolved from a focus on interior space and the needs of the people inside it."
On the road, an overall aerodynamic shape combined with low-drag exterior surfaces including nearly flush windshield glass, flush-mounted windshield wipers and careful under-body tailoring promise enhanced fuel efficiency. Premium details like available LED daytime running lights, headlights and taillights hint at the sophisticated technology and luxury available inside.
Courtesy: hondanews.com
Monday, August 13, 2012
Monday Maintenance Tip: Changing Your Brakes
What is it?
Brake pads, linings and rotors are parts of your car's brake system and are housed next to each of the wheels. They push against one another to create friction, which stops the car.
There are two kinds of brake systems: disc brakes and drum brakes. Disc brakes are the most common system in use today, and they're very much like the hand brakes on a bicycle. When you step on your car's brake pedal, the brake pads squeeze a spinning disc rotor that's attached to the wheel. The resulting friction, when applied to each of the wheels, slows the car.
The second type, drum brakes, involve brake shoes that push out against a spinning brake drum, which is attached to the wheel. This friction slows the car.
Both systems work by creating friction, so brake parts are expected to wear out. The questions then are, how worn out are they? And are they worn out enough that they need to be replaced?
That's what this service is all about checking these components for wear and other potential problems.
Should I do this service when it's recommended?
Absolutely.
Why do I have to do this?
In short, you do this service so you don't crash into a cabbage truck.
What happens if I don't do this?
If you neglect your brake pads and shoes, your brakes will ultimately fail. Even before that happens, however, you can cause damage to other, more expensive brake parts, such as rotors, drums and calipers. In other words: a stitch in time ... saves you from helping your mechanic with a boat payment later on.
Is there any maintenance required between intervals?
If you notice any of the following signs and symptoms when you brake ...
- flashing brake warning light
- squealing, chirping or grinding noises
- pulsations in the brake pedal
- shaky steering wheel
- increased stopping distance
- car pulls to one side when you stop
... your brakes may require servicing. Make an appointment with your mechanic right away.
Car Talk Tip: Most cars have disc brakes in the front and back. A few economy vehicles and many light trucks have disc brakes in the front and drum brakes on the rear wheels.
Courtesy: CarTalk.com
Friday, August 10, 2012
Thursday, August 9, 2012
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
American Honda Reports July Auto Sales: CR-V Sets Seventh Consecutive Monthly Sales Record
American Honda today reported July 2012 U.S. sales of 116,944 units, an increase of 45.3 percent compared with July 2011 (an increase of 57.4 percent based on the daily selling rate*). The Honda Division posted July 2012 sales of 104,119 units, an increase of 46.4 percent compared with July 2011.
Honda
- Honda division posts best seventh-month year-to-date sales total since 2008
- Accord sales pace strong at 28,639 units, up more than 70 percent; Civic sales up more than 78 percent with 25,004 units sold
- CR-V sets seventh consecutive monthly sales record with a new July record (20,554 units), up more than 47 percent from July 2011
- Odyssey sales up more than 88 percent from July 2011, with 11,953 units sold in July
"As our sales momentum continues to build through the summer, Honda is experiencing its best year-to-date sales in four years," said John Mendel, American Honda executive vice president of sales. "With success growing along with inventory, it's wonderful to once again be able to meet the strong retail customer demand for our great Honda products."
Courtesy: Honda Media Newsroom
Monday, August 6, 2012
Monday Maintenance Tip: Rotating Your Tires
What is this?
We know that all tires rotate. But we're talking about another kind of rotation -- rotating tires to different corners of the car and maybe even reversing the direction in which they turn.
Many tires are rotated front-to-back and side-to-side, but some tires are directional, which means they're only supposed to turn in one direction. They have to stay on the same side of the car. Directional tires often have arrows on the tire's sidewall to show you the direction in which they should turn.
If you're not sure which kind of tires you have, check with your mechanic.
Should I do this service when it's recommended?
You should do this service only if you can do it for $20 or less, in our opinion.
The financial benefit of rotating tires is that you'll increase the useful life of the tire. But if you pay more than about $20, you'll probably wipe out any savings you might have gained.
Instead, ask your mechanic to rotate your tires when they're already off your car for another service, such as a brake repair. That way, you won't have to pay extra -- unless your mechanic is a jerk.
Why do I have to do this?
You don't have to rotate your tires. But by rotating them, you will increase your tires' life because they'll wear more evenly.
What happens if I don't do this?
Nothing bad will happen, but you'll get fewer miles out of your tires.
Is there any maintenance required between intervals?
No.
Car Talk Tip: Don't forget Newton's Seventh Law: Tires in balance tend to stay in balance. If you're having your tires rotated, don't pay extra to have them rebalanced. You probably won't need it. Have your tires rebalanced only if you feel a shimmy or vibration.
Courtesy: CarTalk.com
Friday, August 3, 2012
Kudos to our Team for Receiving This Great Review!
To read more reviews on DealerRater click HERE
Thursday, August 2, 2012
Honda Accord Crash Test 2012 - NHTSA Full Length Test - High Speed Camera
Vehicle Test Weight: 3265 lbs.
Overall: 5 Stars
Frontal: 5 Stars
Side: 5 Stars
Rollover: 5 Stars
Crash test dummies representing an average-sized adult
male and a small-sized adult female are placed in the
driver and front passenger seats, respectively, and are
secured with seat belts. Vehicles are crashed into a fixed
barrier at 35 mph (56.3km/h), which is equivalent to a
head-on collision between two similar vehicles each moving
at 35 mph.
Overall vehicle score and frontal crash ratings should ONLY be compared to other vehicles of similar size and weight.
Congrats to Our Team on Earning This Outstanding Review!
To read more DealerRater reviews click HERE
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
The Honda Summer Clearance Event is at Russell & Smith Honda!
Enter the Honda Summer Clearance Event Promotion for a chance to win free gas for a year! Get started by entering now for a chance to win the $5,000 grand-prize gas card and daily $100 instant-win gas cards. To increase your odds, click on the multiple links to submit up to 5 entries per day.
Get all the details here
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