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Archive for the ‘Howdy Honda Safety Tips’ Category

What to do if you get caught in a flood inside your car in Texas

Monday, May 13th, 2013

Although it is rare for us in Texas to get rains that result in heaving flooding, we have been (thankfully) experiencing short burst of heavy rain every few weeks or so. Fortunately none of these weather systems have produced significant flooding, but they have produced enough water accumulation in some areas. And just like the old adage says “better be safe than sorry,” we’ve put together a safety reminder list of what to do (and not do) in the case you and your car get caught in a flood.

Do:

Stay calm

Turn the headlights and hazard lights on

Unbuckle your seatbelt

Unlock your doors

Take outer clothing off

Lower your window slowly. Climb out of your car. Reach a higher ground. Call 911

If you can’t lower your window, use the door. The door won’t open until the water pressure has equalized inside and outside of the car, so don’t try to force the door to open. Once the door is open, swim to safety and call 911.

Don’t:

Try to cross or drive on a flooded road. A couple of feet of water is enough to sweep your car.

Don’t try to drive across flowing water.

Don’t panic

Don’t try to save your possessions.

Don’t try to break the window (glass will explode inward of the vehicle)

Don’t stay with your car

Don’t stand on the roof of your car.

Don’t try to return to your car even if it looks like the water is receding

Tags: vehicle flood safety, What to do if you get caught in a flood inside your car in Texas
Posted in Howdy Honda Safety Tips, Tips and Tricks | Comments Off

How to identify break problems on Honda vehicles

Friday, May 10th, 2013

Brakes are an incredibly important part of your Honda vehicle. Please make sure yours are working smoothly to ensure the safety of every passenger.

Brake Squeal and Wear Indicator

On Honda cars, all four brakes have audible brake wear indicators. So when your brake pads need replacing, you will hear a distinctive metallic “screeching” sound when you apply the brakes. If you do not have the brake pads replaced, they will begin screeching all the time. Do note that your brakes may sometimes squeak or squeal when you apply them lightly; don’t confuse this with the brake wear indicators. The brakes will make a very audible “screeching” noise.

Low Brake Fluid & Flushing the Brake Fluid

If your brake fluid is low, it may be leaking or brakes could be worn.

Brake fluid is hygroscopic, which means that it absorbs moisture. When that moisture finds its way into the braking system, it can corrode metal and seals. Flushing the system with new fluid removes the condensation before extensive damage occurs.

When you’re flushing the system, always use Honda Heavy Brake Fluid DOT 3. If this specific fluid is unavailable, only use DOT 3 or DOT 4 from a sealed container. However, only use these as a temporary solution. The use of any non-Honda brake fluid can cause corrosion and may decrease the life of your brakes.

Honda Genuine Brake Pads

Honda Genuine Brake Rotors function the best with Honda Genuine Brake Pads. Particularly since Honda brake pads are tested extensively on Honda vehicles in the most extreme situations and environments.

Now, it’s not only for this reason that Genuine Honda Brake Pads effectively help prevent premature disc wear and minimize noise. They’re also precisely engineered with state-of-the-art materials that produce superior performance, proper wear, long life, and are specifically designed to dampen noise and reduce vibrations.

Honda Genuine Brake Rotors

Brake rotors are vital to dissipating the heat that comes from the pads every time you use the brakes. Genuine Honda Brake Rotors are built to take that heat time for lasting performance and reliability. They’re made with the optimum mix of materials and compounds to safely withstand long periods of wear and to help prevent overheating and warping.

If your brakes show any of these signs, please contact our Honda Service Center in Austin by calling 512-443-4300.

Tags: Honda brake wear indicators, Honda break fluid, Honda break pads, Honda breaks, Honda genuine break rotors
Posted in Honda Safety, Honda Vehicles, Howdy Honda Safety Tips, Service Department, Vehicle Maintenance | Comments Off

IIHS rates child booster seats for safety

Wednesday, November 7th, 2012

Keep your precious cargo safe.

You may know that the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) tests vehicles for safety. These ratings can go a long way to improving sales for vehicles getting top ratings. But did you know that the institute also rates child booster seats for safety? The IIHS recently evaluated 91 different seats for 2012, listing 47 of them as “Best Bets.”

Booster seats are for children who have outgrown their child-safety seats but aren’t yet big enough to sit in a regular car seat. Because of this, the category covers a wide range of children. When testing, the IIHS uses a test dummy that represents an average 6-year-old. The institute then fits the lap and shoulder belts on the child and seat as would be done on a real child.

The IIHS gave out rankings for “Best Bet,” “Good Bet,” and “Check Fit” with the last ranking meaning that the seat may work for some but not all children. There actually were also two seats that were not recommended by the IIHS at all.

The IIHS “Best Bet” booster seats are:

Britax Frontier 85
Britax Frontier 85 SICT
Britax Parkway SGL (high-back mode)
BubbleBum
Chicco KeyFit Strada (high-back mode)
Clek Oobr (high-back mode)
Cosco Pronto (high-back mode)
Diono Monterey (high-back mode)
Diono RadianR100
Diono RadianR120
Diono RadianRXT
Eddie Bauer Auto Booster (high-back mode)
Evenflo Big Kid Amp
Evenflo Big Kid Amp High Back (backless mode)
Evenflo Big Kid Sport (backless mode)
Evenflo Maestro Evenflo Secure Kid LX/DLX
Evenflo Symphony 65 e3
Ferrari Dreamway SP (high-back mode)
Graco Argos 70 (high-back mode)
Graco Backless TurboBooster Graco Nautilus (high-back mode)
Graco TurboBooster (high-back and backless modes)
Graco TurboBooster Colorz Graco
TurboBooster Elite (high-back and backless modes)
Graco TurboBooster Safety Surround (high-back and backless modes)
Harmony Carpooler
Harmony Cruz Youth Booster
Harmony Dreamtime Booster (high-back and backless mode)
Harmony Olympian
Harmony V6 Highback Booster (high-back and backless modes)
Harmony Youth Booster Seat
Kiddy Cruiserfix Pro
Kiddy World Plus
Kids Embrace Dale Earnhardt Jr.
Maxi-Cosi Rodi XR (high-back mode)
Recaro ProBooster
Recaro ProSport
Recaro Vivo
Safety 1st Boost Air Protect (high-back mode)
Safety 1st S1 Rumi Air/Essential Air
The First Years Pathway B570

You can also come in to Howdy Honda and try out your seats in a new Honda in Austin. That way you can see how the whole family will fit.

Tags: best booster seats, new honda austin tx
Posted in Honda Safety, Howdy Honda Safety Tips | Comments Off

Deer Driver: November is the most dangerous month for car vs. deer collisions

Monday, November 5th, 2012

Watch for these guys on the roadways this month.

While the probability is lower in Texas, car vs. deer collisions still happen often enough here. And the fact is, November is the most dangerous month when it comes to dealing with deer on the roadways. According to research done by State Farm, car vs. deer accidents are actually three times more likely to occur in November than any time between February and August.

With November being a risky month to be on the roads – and the fact that car vs. deer accidents are up in general this year – claims are no doubt higher as well. So now is a good time to avoid hitting a deer with your car – even more than usual. In that spirit, and as one of the leading car dealerships in Central Texas, here are some tips to remember when dealing with deer on the roads.

Deer travel in herds, so if you see one, keep in mind that more could come running out behind at any moment.
Deer are at their most active between 6 and 9 p.m.
Using high-beams at night is recommended, especially on country roads. This will give you the best chance of avoiding a collision with a deer.
If you can’t avoid a collision, stay in your lane as swerving can cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
Watch for posted deer crossing signs – as these are obviously high traffic areas for deer.

While you can do your best to avoid car vs. deer collisions, please don’t swerve if a deer collision seems inevitable. You could loose control of your vehicle all together. If it does happen, remember that Howdy Honda offers the best Honda auto repair service near Buda TX and in Austin. We can get your car fixed up right and get you back on your way in a hurry.

Tags: car dealership central texas, honda auto repair
Posted in Howdy Honda Safety Tips, Howdy Honda Service, Service Department, Tips and Tricks | Comments Off

3 Safety tips for when your car leaves you stranded

Tuesday, October 23rd, 2012

What will you do when this happens?

As much as I hate to admit it, most of us will very likely experience a vehicle failure and get stranded by the side of a road at some point in our lives. Of course, as humans we make mistakes, like running out of gas (a gas station must be close by, right?), but the fact is that no matter the cause you need to be prepared if and when a breakdown does happen.

1. Prevention

By making sure you keep your Honda on its regular Honda maintenance minder schedule and up to date mechanically (think properly inflated tires, fluids are at correct levels, etc), you give yourself the best chance of avoiding a breakdown situation altogether. Mapping your route, knowing the terrain and road conditions, and having other people aware of your whereabouts is also helpful in avoiding a dangerous situation. And just because you have a cell phone doesn’t make you’re immune to being stranded. Batteries can go dead and some remote areas may not have service.

2. Emergency kit

Having an emergency kit in your vehicle is essential to getting through a breakdown situation. A while back, we blogged about the importance of keeping an emergency kit in your vehicle; give it a read as it will give you ideas on how to prepare and what to include in the kit. In addition to some obvious items (like flashlight, gloves, jumper cables, tools, etc.) it’s also a good idea to carry some snacks and bottled water – as depending on your situation – you could be stranded for some time.

3. While stranded

If your vehicle begins to break down, it’s a good idea to slow down gently and get to the side of the road or a safe parking place as soon as possible. Make your vehicle noticeable by turning on the hazard lights and leaving the hood up so people know you need help. If you are in a safe zone, you can attempt quick repairs like a tire change. However, if the situation is beyond your knowledge, call the police or a tow truck, or wait for assistance if cell phone service is unavailable. This is when having an emergency kit and letting people know your route really comes in handy. You may also choose to walk, but be sure that you are in a safe area and that the weather isn’t inclement before you do so.

All in all, it’s best to be prepared and always carry your cell phone charged. If you find yourself stranded during the day, give us a call at 443-4300 and we’ll be happy to help you get back on the road. If your vehicle needs more extensive repair, have the towing company drop it off in our Honda Service Center in Austin. We’ll get our expert technicians working on your vehicle right away.

Tags: auto repair austin, honda service center austin, roadside assistance austin
Posted in Howdy Honda Safety Tips, Tips and Tricks | Comments Off

5 Ways You Can Know It’s Time To Replace Your Tires

Saturday, July 7th, 2012

The penny test is a great one to remember.

Ensuring your tires are road-worthy is an obvious safety concerns, but your tire health can also have an effect on fuel mileage and how your car drives overall. Following are some pointers about tire wear and how to know when it is time to kiss your rubber biscuits goodbye and invest in a new set.

Replace your tires if any of the following occur:

1. They fail the penny test. A good test for tire wear is sticking a penny into the tread. If you can see President Lincoln’s entire head, then it is time to get a new set.

2. Metal is exposed. If you can actually see the metal wires in your car’s tires, it is time to change them immediately.

3. Your car pulls to one side or the other. While this is likely an alignment issue, the tires have been wearing unevenly while this has been going on. Have your tires checked as well as getting your car aligned properly.

4. The tires are 10+ years old. If tires have actually been on a vehicle this long, it is difficult to trust them anymore, as they can damage much more easily.

5. The season of your tires doesn’t match the outside. If it’s winter and you have summer tires on, you are going to want to make a change. If you don’t, you could find yourself out of control when the first storm hits. All-season tires are a good bet, as they are rated for all four seasons, as long as they aren’t worn out.

To keep yourself safe and improve longevity, make sure to check the tire’s air pressure. Underinflated tires are the leading cause of wear on tires. If you keep them at proper inflation, not only will they last longer, but your car will drive its best as well. Remembering that having your tires rotated will also increase their life, as front tires wear more quickly than rear. Keep these tips in mind – and remember – we carry tires at Howdy Honda, so you can purchase and install them in just one stop.

Tags: honda tires, tire pressure, tires for honda austin, tires for sale austin tx
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Everything You Ought to Know About Your Engine’s Timing Belt

Thursday, July 5th, 2012

Honda Service Center in Austin While many people do a good job changing their own oil or tires, there are important vehicle components, such as the timing belt, that need to be left to the professionals.

The timing belt is what allows the crankshaft to drive the camshaft, which opens and closes the valves, and without it, the engine can’t run.

For this reason, changing the belt when recommended is crucial to your Honda’s maintenance. For Hondas manufactured after 1997, this is every 105k miles (not 60k miles like many other cars). DO NOT try to squeeze the life out of the timing belt because it will eventually break and potentially damage your entire engine; meaning hundreds of dollars worth of auto repairs and possibly an entire new engine.

Your safe bet is to replace the belt every 105k miles. However, if you hear slapping sounds coming from the engine, bring the car in because the timing belt might be loose. You can also visually inspect the belt from time to time; you should look for cracks, shredding, excessive slack, or oil leaks from adjacent seals.

Rest assured that the small price you will pay to have the belt replaced could ultimately save your engine and save you a lot of money. Check your mileage and if your Honda is near the 105k, 210k, etc. -mile mark, bring it to the best Honda Service Center in Austin to get your timing belt replaced.

Tags: Honda maintenance, honda service center austin, Honda TIming Belt
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6 Things You Must Have In Your Car This Summer

Monday, June 25th, 2012

With summer in full swing, you have to be prepared for everything that the season may bring. And while many people prepare well for it, getting the car prepped is something that is often forgotten. Traveling (down the street or long distances) is an essential part of summer, so it’s a good idea to be well prepared for the anything that could pop up. For that reason we’ve compiled a list of important things to pack in your car when the summer sun is shining.

Maintenance kit: Breakdowns don’t just happen in the winter months, so it’s important to be prepared. This includes having items like fix-a-flat, coolant and protectant wipes.
Sunscreen and bug spray: The sun’s UVA rays go through window glass and affect your skin if you don’t have any protection. A bottle of sunscreen doesn’t take up much space, but it can be a lifesaver, just like bug spray. Mosquitos and insects love warm weather so make sure to be prepared because nothing ruins an outing like a swarm of bugs.
First-aid kit: When traveling with kids, this one can come in handy in many instances. This item also doesn’t take up space but could be huge.
Towels: Water adventure is synonym with summer life. Whether it’s the pool, spray park, beach, or natural stream, you can never have enough towels. Pack a few extra just in case.
Umbrella: Packing an umbrella has a two-fold benefit – shelter from rain (obviously), but also from the sun.
Cash stash: With so many options in the summer, it’s a good idea to have some cash handy for those extra stops.

So there it is; if you have other ideas of summer must-have items let us know on Facebook or Twitter!

Tags: central texas summer, things you must have in your car for summer
Posted in Car Accessories, Howdy Honda Safety Tips, Tips and Tricks | Comments Off

How years of driving can change your skin

Wednesday, June 20th, 2012

Driver's Face | Howdy Honda Blog | Honda Central Texas

Photo: New England Journal of Medicine

This picture is of a 69-year-old man whose left side makes him look 20 years older because of the deep wrinkles caused by long-term exposure to the sun. You see, this man was a truck driver for more than 25 years and spent countless hours a week with the sun beating down on just one side of his face.

This is what some speculate will be known as “driver’s face” and it’s the first of its kind to appear in a medical journal (this case was just published in the New England Journal of Medicine). Two doctors that treated the man at Northwester University of Chicago, say that the affected skin is a result of exposure to UVA rays, which penetrate skin more deeply than UVB and can go through glass.

To reduce the effects of UVA, experts advice drivers to use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily before the morning and afternoon commute. However, the amount of UVA that enters through a car’s window also depends on the tints. Honda, for example, uses green glass, which contains a light transmissivity of at least 75%, on sedan, windshields and front-row windows. For rear windows, Honda used gray glass which looks tinted and has a light transmissivity of only 20%.

Chuck Schifsky, spokesman for Honda, said, “As light transmissivity decreases, UV protection increase;” meaning that front-row passengers aren’t as protected as people in the back seat and need to remember the importance of applying sunscreen.

“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” –Benjamin Franklin

To read the article in MSNBC, click here, and to read the article on Kicking Tires, click here.

Tags: driver's face, honda glass, honda window tint, How years of driving can change your skin
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5 Ways to improve your driving when it’s raining

Friday, March 9th, 2012

: Tips on How to Drive Safely in the Rain

Last year Austin barely saw water fall from the sky. Now it’s only been about 8 weeks of 2012 and already we’ve had record amounts of rain. I think. If it’s not record amounts, it’s A LOT. Enough to make me stop what I’m doing and blog a little bit about safe driving in very rainy conditions. So here are a few tips to safely drive in heavy rain and make it to wherever you’re headed. See, there’s a reason we’re the most awesome Honda dealer in Austin!

Tip #1

As most of you I’m sure have experienced these last few days, driving in a torrential downpour is not the definition of fun. So the first thing that you should do is SLOW DOWN. No need to be in a hurry when cats and dogs are falling from the sky. Not only will slowing down provide you with more traction on the road, but it will also reduce the chance that you hydroplane should you drive over a large puddle.

Tip #2

Wet road conditions make sudden stops take longer, so make sure to keep a safe distance from the car(s) ahead of you.

Tip #3

When was the last time you replaced your windshield wipers? If it was more than a year ago, drive straight to a shop and get a new set. You’ll notice the difference and will be able to see much better. Wipers should be replaced about once a year; and while we might not use them in Austin very often, when we need them, we really need them!

Tip #4

Turn on your lights. You want to make sure that all the drivers around you can see your car.

Tip #5

Lastly, tires. Now, I know tires can get pricey, but, next time that you need to replace your car’s tires select ones with a tread design that also features rubber compounds. These perform really well in wet conditions. However, something that you can do right now is to check your tire’s air pressure and ensure they’re at optimal levels. I blogged about tire pressure a few months ago, so give it a read to make sure what to look for.

So here you have it: 5 ways to make sure you are driving as safely as possible during horrible weather. If you need new wipers or tires, come by our Parts Department and we’ll help you out!

Safe driving!

Tags: honda dealer austin, honda parts austin, parts for honda austin, rain safety driving, tires honda austin
Posted in Howdy Honda Safety Tips, Tips and Tricks | Comments Off

Howdy Honda Blog

Archive for the ‘Howdy Honda Safety Tips’ Category

What to do if you get caught in a flood inside your car in Texas

How to identify break problems on Honda vehicles

IIHS rates child booster seats for safety

Deer Driver: November is the most dangerous month for car vs. deer collisions

3 Safety tips for when your car leaves you stranded

5 Ways You Can Know It’s Time To Replace Your Tires

Everything You Ought to Know About Your Engine’s Timing Belt

6 Things You Must Have In Your Car This Summer

How years of driving can change your skin

5 Ways to improve your driving when it’s raining

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