8 Tips for Winter Driving

Winter is one of the toughest seasons on a vehicle. If you want your vehicle to continue to run well all season and make things easier on yourself, there are a few simple steps you can take. Use these tips to prep your car for winter so all you have to worry about is staying warm.

1. Get winter tires. If you live in an area that gets a lot of snow, then winter tires can help keep you safe on the slick roads. All season tires are not the same and you may even need winter tires on all four of your wheels.
2. Get a battery test. You may not need a new battery, but it is better to have your battery tested just to be sure. During the winter, your battery has to work harder than it does during other seasons and you should make sure your battery is going to be reliable all season with a free test.
3. Get some extra floor mats. This is something that most people do not think about getting before winter but they can come in very handy if you get stuck in the snow. You can use them to gain traction and get your car out of the snow.
4. Get a roadside assistance membership. You never know when you are going to need help when you are driving and you are more likely to need it during the winter. You can usually add this to your auto insurance policy but you can also get one that is completely separate and does not cost a lot of money. It is better to have this in your back pocket than find yourself stranded in the cold.

5. Create your car emergency kit. Things are unpredictable on the road and you should consider making a car emergency kit that includes things like a flashlight, a blanket, food and water, and other things you may need in the winter if you get stranded.
6. Get your oil changed. If you live in a particularly cold environment, you may need to have a different type of oil put in your car for winter. You should be getting this performed regularly but you should also know if you need a thinner oil for winter. Check your owner manual and get your oil changed before it gets too cold.
7. Get a basic tune-up. While you should also be getting this done on a regular basis, it is a good idea to get it done before winter to ensure everything is working the way it should be. The last thing you want is to fid out there is something wrong with your vehicle in the cold of winter.
8. Change your windshield wipers and fluid. You want to have fluids that can keep up with the freezing temperatures and you should have new windshield wipers that can help you maintain visibility when driving in the snow.

Your vehicle is something that you want to ensure you have access to all season long. Taking these steps will help you ensure that your vehicle will not only be safe but you will be able to take care of issues as they pop up.

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How Does HondaLink Work?

If you are planning on buying a new Honda, then you can skip the factory navigation system and level up to HondaLink. With this advanced technology, Honda is providing a less expensive option to consumers who buy a new car – one that takes advantage of something most people carry with them wherever they go. HondaLink uses a smartphone to manage the cars built-in touchscreen system and seamlessly connect you to your car no matter where you go. What is HondaLink and how does it work?

What is HondaLink?

HondaLink is a vehicle telemetric service designed to replace and update the in-car navigation system. Honda first introduced this product as Internavi in 1997. It was available only in Accords and Torneo sold in Japan, though.

The newest generation service is an application-based platform that connects you to your car via a smartphone, tablet or desktop computer. With downloadable apps at your disposal, you can customize the service to suit your needs.

Once you download the apps, you can pair a smartphone to the Honda system using your vehicle’s VIN to get the most benefit from this technology. By connecting the app to your car, you gain access to your digital address book, are able to make phone calls, can get directions and even schedule your next service appointment. HondaLink also includes an onboard service for emergencies much like OnStar.

Required HondaLink Apps

There are two required apps for HondaLink and a few options ones – each one with different benefits. The HondaLink app Launcher allows you to find and organize approved apps and even points out third-party platforms that work with the system. This app integrates your phone with the onboard touchscreen that comes with select Honda automobiles.

The HondaLink Connect app is designed to enhance your driving experience by offering convenient access to the:

• Owner’s manual for your vehicle
• Local weather updates
• Nearby points of interest
• Destination information
• Messages

The Maintenance Minder that comes with the Connect app keeps you on track with recommended upkeep for the vehicles and allows you to schedule an appointment remotely.

Optional HondaLink Apps

HondaLink comes with some options apps that enhance the experience for you. The HondaLink Aha App offers a large selection of audio content such as:

• Radio stations
• Podcasts
• Audiobooks

It also connects you to mainstream social media platforms and helps you navigate to nearby businesses like restaurants, gas stations and hotels.

The HondaLink Navigation provides a 3D navigation system and traffic program. You can use this app to search for specific addresses or to find the easiest route to wherever you are going. While the other apps come at no cost, this one you must pay to download.

The downside of using the HondaLink service is compatibility. HondaLink apps will not work with all model smartphones, so be sure to check to make sure yours is compatible. The apps are available via iTunes and Google Play for your convenience.

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Honda Dashboard Warning Lights On? Here’s What They Mean

Seeing one of your dashboard indicator lights pop on when you’re in your car can be scary. By knowing exactly what all of the dashboard warning lights mean, you can save yourself a lot of unnecessary panic. To be safe, whenever you see a warning light on in your car, be sure to stop by Honda World so that a mechanic can take a closer look at the problem.

Parking Brake
You have your parking brake on, so remember to turn it off before driving.

Low Oil Pressure
Your car may be leaking or burning oil, which could severely damage the engine if unheeded.

Charging System
There is a problem with the electrical charging system.

Supplemental Restraint System
There may be a problem with the airbags, meaning they won’t deploy in a crash.

Smart Entry System
Your car might have a problem with smart entry system or push button starting system.

Check Engine Light
This light comes on for a number of dangerous problems including a misfire in your engine’s cylinders, problems with emissions, or a loose fuel cap.

Anti-Lock Brake System
There might be a malfunction with the ALB system or you have your handbrake on while driving.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System
Your tires might be underinflated.

High Temperature
Your car is overheating.

Low Temperature
Your car is too cold.

Daytime Running Lights
Your daytime running lights are on.

Vehicle Stability Assist System
VSA is on, or there’s a problem with the VSA system.

Electric Power Steering
The EPS system is not functioning correctly.

Seat Belt Reminder
If you don’t wear your seatbelt while driving, this light will come on.

Door Open
A door is open.

Trunk Open
The trunk is open.

Low Fuel
You are low on fuel and should top off soon.

Washer Fluid Level
It’s time to add more washer fluid to your car.

System Message
This light will come on with another light and will mean there is a message on your multi-information display.

Maintenance Minder
A reminder that it’s time for routine maintenance.

Immobilizer
Your car does not recognize your key or remote transmitter, meaning you might not be able to start the engine.

VSA Off
Helps remind you that VSA is off.

Cruise Main On
Cruise main is on.

Cruise Control On
Cruise control is on.

Turn Signals
Your turn signal is on.

Fog Lights On
Your fog lights are on.

High Beams On
Your high beams are on.

Exterior Lights On
Your exterior lights are on.

ECON Mode On
Your ECON mode is on.

Lane Keeping Assist System
The LKAS is on.

Collision Mitigation Braking System
The CMBS is on.

Road Departure Mitigation
The RDM system is on.

Blind Spot Information
There is a vehicle in your blind spot.

All-Wheel Drive
AWD is on.

Auto Idle Stop
Auto Idle Stop is on.

Adaptive Cruise Control
You are using adaptive cruise control.

Auto High Beam System
Your high beam lights are being automatically controlled.

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