Tuesday, October 23, 2012

Easy on the Eyes

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The new Accord has elegant analog instrumentation with a sophisticated and technical appearance that might remind you of a high-end chronograph (a fancy wristwatch to you and me). The centrally positioned speedometer is the largest feature in the instrument cluster. A high-contrast Multi-Information Display (MID) is positioned in the center of the speedometer and provides a range of information and trip computer functions that are controlled with switches conveniently placed on the steering wheel. Illuminated Eco Assist™ arcs on each side of the speedometer indicate when the vehicle is being operated efficiently. The speedometer is flanked by an analog tachometer, and coolant temperature and fuel level gauges.

Clean, clear and simple, Accord’s instrumentation gives you just what you need – just where you want it.

Courtesy of 2013HondaAccordLaunch.com

Monday, October 22, 2012

Honda Beat Confirmed for Production

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Honda President Takanobu Ito has confirmed that a new-generation Beat model will be heading to production, bringing back the automaker’s mini-sports car from 20 years ago.

Rumors and speculation of the Honda Beat revival began last year, and when the Japanese automaker displayed its EV-STER Concept, giving us a glimpse into its design. It’s the car that excites Honda President Ito the most and recently mentioned how his interest in the Beat came when development of the new NSX began.

“When the Beat was being built, I was on the development team to work on the NSX sports car and sports cars are something I really love,” Ito said. “I was kind of envious of the little cute sports car.”

Last year Honda confirmed that the EV-STER was heading to production, and now it appears that the production Beat model will be based on the EV-STER. The question is whether or not it’ll be a true sports car to take on the Scion FR-S / Subaru BRZ, or if it’ll be an electric vehicle. Or perhaps, given its rumored Fit underpinnings, the new Beat will be available with a choice of electric or gasoline propulsion.

Courtesy of Auto Guide

Anthony, thanks for taking the time to write this amazing review! We hope to see you soon!

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Paragon Honda - (5) Star Review on Yelp

  • I have been going to Paragon for 10 years. I had service done to my vehicle and as usual, all was perfect. They were attentive and courteous. There is something to be said for consistency . Kudos to you all. One of the service managers named Anthony is always on the job and he remembered me....that is a good enough sign for me.. -Anthony C.

Friday, October 19, 2012

Cat, thank you so much for this outstanding reflection of your time spent with us!

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Paragon Honda - (5) Star Review on Yelp

  • Yesterday I purchased the new 2013 Honda CRV at Paragon Honda. I absolutely love, love, love my new CRV.

    My experience at Paragon Honda was beyond exceptional. Most car salesmen/saleswomen are pushy, annoying and concerned about themselves rather than the consumer. I can only speak of the salesperson I dealt with at Paragon Honda and I am sure he is probably one of the few car salespeople out there that actually listens and will try to make the consumer as happy as possible!!!

    If you go to Paragon Honda, I highly recommend you ask for Edgar. I can assure you that your experience will be like no other. When I walked into Honda, he was the the first person to approach me. I already knew I wanted a Honda CRV because that was what I had had previously for about 11 yrs. He throughly explained the CRV's new features. I was satisfied and was ready to negotiate numbers. I explained to him that I also wanted to trade-in my old CRV. I told him about my experience at another Honda dealership. Edgar went back and forth presenting the offer to the manager. He 100% listened to my concern and really went to battle with the manager. NEVER gave up...even when me and my husband were ready to walk, he still tried to get us what we wanted. Definitely not the typical car salesperson!!! Long story short, he successfully got us exactly what we wanted.  

    I don't know if my experience would have been the same had Edgar not handled the transaction, but I am so grateful to him because he made the process sooooooo much easier.

    Just on a side note- I rarely write reviews, however, I truly felt compelled to write about my experience just because it completely exceeded my expectations. -Cat D.

Tuesday, October 16, 2012

Electric Power-Assisted Rack-and-Pinion Steering

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With just the right feel and less energy used, EPS steers Accord in an efficient new direction.

The 2013 Accord’s new electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering (EPS) replaces the conventional hydraulically assisted power-steering system used on the previous-generation Accord. The new system uses a rack-and-pinion steering assembly with an electric motor assist that reduces steering effort, improves feel and enhances precision and stability. It also uses less power than the previous Accord’s system, contributing to the new Accord’s increased fuel efficiency.*

EPS benefits include a more sophisticated, linear, solid and accurate steering feel, more nimble handling, and improved highway stability. Additionally, the steering column diameter has increased 27% over the previous-generation Accord, resulting in greater vibration damping and increased vertical stiffness. In a nutshell: the new EPS just feels better.

Courtesy of 2013HondaAccordLaunch.com

Monday, October 15, 2012

Maintenance Tip: Paint Care Myths and Facts

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With so much misinformation out there surrounding car care, it's no wonder people get confused about what's truth and what's fiction. Paint care is definitely one area that can raise a lot of questions. To sort the myths from the reality, we talked to Mike Pennington, director of training for Meguiar's. Active with detailing professionals, show-car owners, and amateur enthusiasts, Pennington conducts regular paint-care classes and seminars and acts as technical consultant for many auto manufacturers and their dealerships-including BMW, Lexus, Nissan, Infiniti, and DaimlerChrysler-as well as such automotive paint manufacturers as DuPont, PPG, and BASF. Here's his insight into the paint-care quagmire.

Myth: A wax made of 100-percent carnauba is superior to those using lesser amounts.Reality: Carnauba wax has been a favorite among car enthusiasts for years, but don't believe that any wax is made of 100-percent carnauba. As the hardest natural wax known, carnauba is much too hard to apply directly to automotive paint. It comes in bricks that must be melted and added to a company's formulation. If a paint protectant advertises "pure carnauba," it means the part of the formula that is carnauba is pure, not that it's 100-percent carnauba. According to Pennington, today's synthetic polymer technology actually provides better protection than carnauba.  

Myth: Avoid a silicone-based wax. If used, the vehicle can't be repainted. Reality: It's true that silicones are a bane of the auto painter. For instance, if particles of silicone are on the sheetmetal when it's painted, they can keep the paint from adhering to the surface, causing defects known as fisheye. That's why some professional cleaners and polishes intended for shop use are formulated without silicone. However, once paint is on the car, silicone is no longer an issue. In fact, virtually every wax on the market uses some kind of silicone in its formula because it enhances the product's ease of application, gloss, and durability. If repainting is necessary, a body shop can easily take off the wax as part of its normal preparation.

Myth: You can assume that a finish that looks glossy is in good shape. Reality: There are different degrees of glossiness, and a paint can dull so gradually you may not realize it's happening. For this reason, don't rely just on reflectivity to judge your paint's condition. Use your sense of touch, as well. Place your clean, dry hand flat against the paint and slowly rub it along the surface. Feel with both palm and fingertips. A well-maintained finish should feel smooth as glass. Any roughness could be due to oxidation, tree sap mist, or adhered grit, all of which degrade a paint's gloss to some degree.

Myth: Oxidation is a major problem for factory paint. Reality: Until a few years ago, this was definitely the case. Today, however, oxidation is no longer the concern it used to be. Ultraviolet radiation from the sun was once a finish's worst enemy, gradually causing the paint to deteriorate into a white, chalky dullness. In the last five to 10 years, new paint technology has come onto the scene that's much more resistant to UV, allowing new-car paint to hold up many years longer. With older cars, though, oxidation is still a problem an owner should be concerned with.

Myth: Clear-coat finishes don't require waxing. Reality: Even though today's clear-coat finishes are much more resistant to UV radiation, they're still as susceptible to other environmental contamination. A clear coat is still just another layer of paint, and is subject to the same deterioration as paint with pigment. Therefore, periodic waxing is still recommended for maximum protection against the elements. Always use a non-abrasive formula labeled safe for clear coats. "The problem today is the stuff that lands on paint," says Pennington. Contaminants ranging from bird droppings and bugs to tree sap mist, industrial fallout, and airborne pollutants can adhere to the paint and gradually cause dulling and roughness. If left unattended, it can chemically etch into the paint, causing permanent scars. A quality wax can help keep the contaminants from bonding, but the best strategy is to wash them off before they can adhere.

 

Myth: With modern "easy-care" formulas, paint scratches can be easily removed by hand. Reality: Scratches can be temporarily filled with some types of products, but they'll likely reappear after your first wash. The only sure way to eliminate scratches is to use an abrasive product-such as a cleaner-that removes enough of the surrounding paint to physically make the scratch appear less deep. Pennington notes, though, there's a wide range of scratches. Even with a cleaner, only the very lightest scratches can be removed by hand. As scratches deepen, they require more advanced methods, progressing in order from an orbital buffer, a dual-action polisher, a rotary polisher, and finally wet sanding. Scratches that go completely through a paint layer cannot be eliminated without repainting.

Myth: Machine buffing is dangerous for paint. Reality: As mentioned above, there are different types of machines designed for buffing and polishing, and all are safe when matched with the right skill level. An orbital buffer, is the least aggressive type and can be easily used by the average do-it-yourselfer. A dual-action polisher is slightly more aggressive and therefore requires more care and skill to use safely. Finally, a professional-type rotary polisher can remove paint relatively quickly, making it a good choice for fixing damaged paint. This same trait, however, also makes it easier to burn through a paint layer unless used by an experienced person.

Myth: Swirl marks or spiderwebbing are found mostly in old or abused paint. Reality: Even brand-new paint can quickly show spiderwebbing-very light scratches, often in a circular pattern, most easily seen in the reflection of a light. A number of products are designed to remove swirl marks, but Pennington emphasizes the real key is to find out what's causing them. Spiderwebbing is commonly caused by unseen dirt on a towel, sponge, or chamois, and can happen either at a carwash center (even those that handwash) or in your own driveway, while you're washing or drying your car. Even cheap towels can cause these marks. "Use a good quality terry towel with a thick nap," says Pennington, "and always use good car-care techniques."

Myth: A good paint protectant can even protect against fire. Reality: Don't be misled by sleight-of-hand. You may have seen a car wax salesman demonstrate the durability of his product by lighting a flame on the surface of a car and then pointing out that his product's "superior protection" kept the paint from being damaged at all. What he sprays on the paint and ignites is lighter fluid, which burns extremely easily and quickly. In fact, the flame doesn't actually touch the paint surface because it's feeding off rising fumes. Usually, the paint gets no warmer than it would on a hot summer day, and you can place your hand on the spot immediately after the flame goes out and not be burned. Even paint with no protection at all will survive this test just fine.
New & Notable.


If today's computer-controlled engines make you feel powerless to diagnose and repair your car's driveability problems, the new EZ-Link Scanner could be just what you're looking for. Fully compatible with all OBD-II vehicles, this engine diagnostic scanner can help you pinpoint problems with any '96 or later model, domestic or import. The EZ-Link simply plugs into the car's standard diagnostics link to retrieve trouble codes (displayed in plain English) and other data from the engine computer, monitor sensor readings, perform oxygen sensor tests, and reset an engine warning light. Suggested retail price: $299.99. An EZ-Link Pro Pack ($449.99; under $400 street price) can also be used on '82-'95 GM models and '83-'95 Ford and Chrysler vehicles, and includes OBD-I and -II cables, user manual, and carrying case. With optional PC-Link ($89.99), the EZ-Link can even be upgraded over the Internet. AutoXray, 800/595-9729; www.autoxray.com.

Going Stealth, With Escort's SR1.


While we're used to seeing radar detectors prominently mounted on a car's windshield, there are several advantages to having a permanently mounted hidden detector system in your vehicle. First, if you often use a detector in the same car, it eliminates the necessity of having to set up the dashtop unit every time you drive, as well as the theft concerns if you leave it mounted on the glass while you're out of the vehicle. Secondly, it allows you to maintain full detection in a fully stealth mode, without the telltale unit on the windshield or wire hanging down from the visor. It provides more reliable rear laser protection, without the worry of a head or headrest blocking the signal from reaching the detector. Plus, it allows you to put the detector display in a more convenient and accessible location that's more in line with your normal line of sight.
These are all benefits of Escort's new Passport SR1. Distributed through new car dealers and high-end car audio specialists, and recommended for professional installation, the SR1 consists of a front radar/laser receiver mounted in the grille or at the front bumper, a rear laser sensor mounted to the license plate holder or other convenient location to ensure a clear view out the back, and a thin, 4-inch-long remote display/control unit. This can be located in a number of accessible spots, and can be mounted either horizontally or vertically, with the readout programmable for either position. In addition, a light sensor in the display module continually monitors the ambient light in the car and automatically adjusts the brightness of the display to match that in the cabin. Alternately, the display can be set in one of four fixed brightness levels. The digital display will indicate from which direction laser is being detected, either from the front or rear. Plus, the system will warn you of a problem with the wiring to either the front receiver or rear laser sensor. Like its Passport 7500 dashtop kin, the SR1 includes such sophisticated features as Escort's ExpertMeter (shows up to eight radar sources at once), AutoSensitivity mode (lets an internal computer analyze incoming signals and adjust the sensitivity circuits to minimize false alarms), and 10 user-selectable options for personalization. The suggested retail price for the SR1 is $999.95, including installation. Escort, 800/433-3487; www.escortradar.com. Synthetic motor oils are the happening thing these days, and both Mobil and Pennzoil are trying to gain the competitive edge by getting creative with their formulas. The new Mobil 1 Tri-Synthetic, for instance, marks only the second time in the 25-year history of the product that it's been reformulated. According to the company, Tri-Synthetic combines three advanced polymers with an innovative anti-wear additive package that provides improved wear protection and lower phosphorous levels, as well as improved sludge protection and reduced piston deposits for a cleaner-running engine. Meanwhile, Pennzoil's new synthetic oil is getting help from above in the form of Pennzane X2000. This is a synthesized hydrocarbon fluid developed by Pennzoil for the space program and used by NASA since 1989. One of the major advantages of Pennzane is its ability to operate in the extreme temperatures of space, properties just as welcome in a modern motor oil. Expect both of these premium formulas to run $4 or more per quart.

Tuesday, October 9, 2012

Fighting Pain at the Pump, Honda Joins with Clean Energy to Provide $3,000 Fuel Cards to New Civic Natural Gas Vehicle Customers

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Fighting back against a spike in gasoline prices and building on momentum from record sales of the Civic Natural Gas Vehicle, American Honda today announced that it is working with Clean Energy Fuels Corp., America's largest owner of public compressed natural gas (CNG) fueling stations, and participating Honda dealers to provide a special savings to customers purchasing a new 2012 Civic Natural Gas Vehicle – a debit card pre-loaded with $3,000 that can be used at Clean Energy CNG fueling stations around the country to purchase fuel*. In addition to the fuel card savings, 2012 Civic Natural Gas Vehicle customers in California may have the added benefit of single-occupant access to High Occupancy Vehicle "carpool" lanes through January 1, 2015.**

With a combined EPA fuel economy rating of 31 mpg and a fuel cost savings of up to 40 percent compared to a typical gasoline-powered compact car, the Civic Natural Gas Vehicle can significantly reduce the pain at the pump. The Civic Natural Gas Vehicle can also be refueled in a matter of minutes, much like a conventional gasoline-powered car, and should be able to cover over 200 miles on a single tank of fuel (depending on driving conditions and style).

The nation-wide average price of natural gas fuel for vehicles in July was $2.05 per equivalent gasoline gallon, according to the most recent Department of Energy, Clean Cities Alternative Fuel Price report on fuel prices. Ninety-eight percent of natural gas consumed in North America is domestically produced.

The 2012 Civic Natural Gas Vehicle, the only OEM produced natural-gas powered passenger vehicle in the U.S, posted record sales since going on-sale in October 2011 as a new model, increasing 22 percent versus the same period a year ago, highlighting continued growing consumer interest in practical alternatives to gasoline, and natural gas in particular.

Named the "2012 Green Car of the Year" by Green Car Journal and one of the "greenest vehicles of 2012" by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE), the redesigned 2012 Civic Natural Gas Vehicle runs on cleaner, abundant and domestically sourced inexpensive natural gas.

The Civic Natural Gas Vehicle is available for purchase at 199 certified Honda CNG dealers in 36 states. It is the only dedicated CNG-powered passenger car available for retail purchase from a major automaker and is manufactured exclusively by Honda Manufacturing of Indiana, LLC in Greensburg, Indiana, using domestic and globally sourced parts.

Consumers interested in learning more about their refueling locations can visit Clean Energy's web-based station locator at http://www.cleanenergyfuels.com for a listing of stations in their area.
Customers interested in receiving a $3000 fuel card with the purchase of a new 2012 Civic Natural Gas Vehicle must make their purchase from a participating Honda CNG dealer on or before January 2, 2013; the supply of fuel cards and model year 2012 Civic Natural Gas Vehicles is limited. For more information on the fuel card promotion, visit www.CNGfuelcard.honda.com.

Honda Environmental Leadership
Besides producing the Civic Natural Gas Vehicle, Honda has developed numerous technologies to improve fuel efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions, including the Honda Fit EV and the Honda FCX Clarity fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV). Honda has also led the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) rankings of overall vehicle environmental performance since 2000, and a Honda vehicle has topped the list of America's greenest vehicles, from the America Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE), for 11 consecutive years.

About Clean Energy
Clean Energy (Nasdaq: CLNE) is the largest provider of natural gas fuel for transportation in North America and a global leader in the expanding natural gas vehicle fueling market. We have operations in compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG) vehicle fueling and construction and operation of natural gas fueling stations. Wholly-owned subsidiaries include BAF Technologies, which provides natural gas vehicle systems and conversions for taxis, vans, pick-up trucks and shuttle buses; IMW Industries, Ltd., which supplies CNG equipment for vehicle fueling and industrial applications worldwide; NorthStar, which supplies LNG and liquefied to compressed natural gas fueling system technologies and equipment, station construction and operations; and Clean Energy Renewable Fuels (CERF), which develops renewable natural gas (RNG), or biomethane, production facilities in the U.S. For more information, visit www.cleanenergyfuels.com.

Executive Quotes
"With gas prices spiking in California, Civic Natural Gas vehicles sales at an all time high, and the public gaining greater awareness of the benefits of using natural gas, we believe this a great time to launch our fuel card promotion with our partner Clean Energy." said Steve Center, vice president of the American Honda Environmental Business Development Office. "If you're looking to save money at the pump, spend less time in traffic, and reduce your environmental impact, the 2012 Civic Natural Gas Vehicle is a great choice."

"Drivers have increasingly seen a greater percentage of their dollars going down their car's gasoline tanks," said Peter Grace, senior vice president of Clean Energy for sales. "For the average driver, the $3000 Clean Energy fuel card provided by Honda will translate into two to three years of not paying for fuel. The significant cost savings, positive environmental benefits and access to car pool lanes will make new Civic Natural Gas Vehicle owners the envy of the road."

* While supply of fuel cards last. Available only at participating Honda
certified Civic NGV Dealers. See participating dealers for details. Fuel card subject to the terms and conditions set forth by issuer. Recipient is responsible for all federal, state or local taxes on the fuel card, regardless of whether the card is used in whole or in part. Clean Energy fueling stations not located in every city/state.

Courtesy of Honda Media Newsroom

Monday, October 8, 2012

Don’t you want to keep your car running smoothly as long as possible? Well here is a Monday maintenance tip to help extend the life of your car.

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Lube Your Lug Nuts

  • Lug nuts, if not lubricated occasionally, can seize or “freeze” to the studs due to corrosion. Repairing them can be expensive. Having to call a tow truck for a flat you can’t remove is even more expensive. The next time you change or rotate your tires, pick up some anti-seize lubricant at your local auto supply store. Clean the stud threads with a wire brush and wipe them with the lubricant. It’s formulated to prevent the lug nuts (spark plugs, too) from seizing and won’t allow them to loosen as you drive, the way other lubricants might. If a lug nut does freeze to a stud, try spraying the nut and stud with WD-40 or Liquid Wrench. Allow it to penetrate for 10 or 20 minutes. Use a heat gun to apply heat. Then use a ratchet wrench to remove the lug.

Thursday, October 4, 2012

Most sponsors at the Little League World Series set up a booth. Honda set up an entire baseball camp.

Many thanks to the author of this amazing review! Great job Jose!

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Paragon Honda - (5) Star Review on Edmunds

  • I recently purchased a vehicle at Paragon Honda my sales person Jose P. was a great help he listen to what I wanted and got it for me, great guy. Elsie took care of my paper work and got me going in my new car. I strongly recommend Paragon Honda they make you feel at home. -First_Lady

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

V-6: Powered-Up with i-VTEC

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In Accord V-6 models equipped with automatic transmission, the engine combines Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM®) with Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC). Together, the features are collectively called i-VTEC (intelligent Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) in the Accord’s V-6. A new switching mechanism allows each cylinder to operate with low-rpm valve lift and duration or high rpm lift and duration. In addition, the rear cylinder bank can also leave all intake and exhaust valves closed to maximize fuel efficiency during cylinder deactivation.

The “intelligent” portion of the system is its ability to vary valve operation based on the driving situation and engine rpm. At low rpm, the VTEC intake valve timing and lift are optimized for increased torque, which now allows a wider range of 3-cylinder operation (when equipped with automatic transmission). As engine rpm builds past 5150 rpm (for 6AT; 4900 rpm for 6MT) the VTEC system transitions to a high-lift, long-duration intake cam profile for superior high-rpm engine power. In cylinder cut-off mode (6AT models), the rear bank of intake and exhaust valves remain closed to eliminate pumping losses.

Accord V-6’s i-VTEC with two different intake cam profiles is a key reason that the aluminum-alloy 24-valve engine now produces 278 horsepower at 6200 rpm (an increase of seven horsepower) and that torque is markedly improved in the lower ranges below 4900 rpm where the engine typically operates. It’s a seat-of-the-pants improvement you’ll feel every day.

Courtesy of 2013HondaAccordLaunch.com

Monday, October 1, 2012

Happy Monday fans! Here is a Monday maintenance tip to help keep your car running as long as possible!

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Check Tread for Safety

  • Most states require tires to be replaced when they have worn down to 1/16-inch (1.5 mm) of remaining tire depth. Tires sold in North America are required to have “wear bars” molded into them to make it easy to see when tire replacement is legally required. However, if you’ll be driving in the rain, you should change your tires when there is 1/8-inch (3 mm) of tread left. Otherwise, water may not escape from under your tires fast enough and you risk hydroplaning — a dangerous situation in which your car loses traction and literally floats on the water. Stick an American quarter between the treads in several places. If part of Washington’s head is always covered, you have enough tread to drive in the rain. If you drive in snow, you’ll need at least 3/16-inch (5 mm) of tread to get adequate traction. Stick an American penny between the treads. If the top of the Lincoln Memorial is always covered, you’re ready for winter driving.