Car Care Tip – Oil Change Question
Alice writes: I am a long time reader and I read one of your articles last year where you were saying it is ok to go 4000 miles between oil changes. Can I go that far on my 2009 Honda Fit? I want it to last over 200k miles, so I want to do what is best in the long run. Thanks for helping us.
Mike: Alice, as long as you are using a premium brand of oil, there should not be any problem using 4k oil change intervals. Your Fit should easily last over 200k miles as long as you follow the recommended maintenance schedule. Advances in engine design and oil additives have made the old 3k interval obsolete.
Here is a tip: It seems that you never remember that you need wiper blades until it is raining and nighttime. That is why I’m reminding you now to get to your parts store or dealer and get a new set of wiper blades. In our climate, wipers need to be replaced about twice a year to be dependable. In between replacements, they can be cleaned with a paper towel soaked with Windex. Pull the wipers away from the windshield and run the wet towel along their length to remove road grime. You will be amazed at how greasy they become in just a week or so. You could do that now and see what I mean. -MH
Author: Mike Herzing publishes the website: www.letstalkwheels.com. Mike has owned Accurate Auto Center in Tomball, TX since 1979 and is a former ASE Certified Master Tech.
This Car Care Tip was brought to you by Honda of Clear Lake, if you have any questions please call us at (281) 398-6666.
Top Green Cars – 2010 Honda Insight
Green, Greener, Greenest
To help buyers find eco-minded cars, greencars.org lists their top ten greenest models, based on a “Green Score” incorporating data on tailpipe emissions, fuel consumption, and emission of gasses that contribute to global warming. Honda is usually well represented on the list, and 2010 was no exception with four Hondas making the grade. A standout on the list was our very own fuel-efficient Insight hybrid. The other vehicles on the list were the Civic, Civic Hybrid, and the Fit.
Source: American Honda Motor Co.
Website: Honda of Clear Lake
Honda Car Care Tip
2010 Honda Pilot EX-L
Jaine writes: I am a big fan of your column, and since I have a problem with my 145k 2004 Pilot, I had to ask for your opinion. I neglected to service my transmission and now I need a $2500 overhaul. I love the vehicle, but my Dad says that it isn’t worth spending money on because it has over 100k miles. My trade in value is terrible because it won’t shift, so I’ll have to almost give it away. Is the engine going to go because it has over 100k miles? With maintenance, how long should it last?
Mike: Properly maintained, your engine should easily go 250k miles before it starts to get tired. Of course there will be belts, waterpumps, seals, and gaskets to replace during that time so don’t think it will be maintenance free. I would have the shop check it over before making a decision to repair it though. If they can’t foresee any big issues, I’d fix it in a heartbeat and stay without a car payment. Maintaining your vehicle and driving the wheels off of it is always the best way to save money. Hondas are great for this.
Car Care Tip: Michael Herzing from www.LetsTalkWheels.com
Gas Saving Tips From the Pros
(ARA) – They’re up, they’re down, they’re back up. Gas prices got you down? If telecommuting and pubic transportation are not viable options for you, here’s some down-to-earth advice from the pros at the non-profit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).
It is important to keep your vehicle properly maintained and change your driving habits so as to maximize your mileage, according to ASE officials. Here’s a plan of action from the group that tests and certifies automotive technicians:
Monitor your tires. Under-inflated tires or poorly aligned wheels waste fuel by forcing the engine to work harder. Let the tires cool down before checking the air pressure. Out-of-line wheels, as evidenced by uneven tread wear, should be aligned by a professional.
Consolidate your daily trips and errands. Some trips may be unnecessary. Also, try to travel when traffic is light so you can avoid stop-and-go conditions.
Avoid excessive engine idling. Shut off your vehicle while waiting for friends and family.
Observe speed limits. Speeding decreases your miles per gallon.
Drive gently. Sudden accelerations guzzle gas. Anticipate traffic patterns and adjust your speed gradually. Use cruise control. (You’ll help your brakes and suspension system last longer, too.)
Get rid of excess weight by removing unnecessary items from the vehicle. Store only essentials in the trunk. Less weight means better mileage. After family vacations, make sure you remove all unnecessary items, including that roof-top cargo carrier.
Use windows and air conditioning wisely. Your mileage should improve if you keep the windows closed at highway speeds, since air drag is reduced. This is true even with the air conditioning on — assuming that the system is in good working order. If possible, try to avoid using your air conditioner in heavy, stop-and-go traffic such as traffic jams or holiday weekend back-ups.
Be a sensible patriot. Everyone loves the flag. But show your patriotism by affixing a decal rather than hoisting a large flapping U.S. flag, which increases air resistance.
Keep your engine operating at its “peak efficiency.” A well-maintained engine will help you maximize the gas mileage for your specific make and model. A misfiring spark plug can greatly reduce gas mileage. Follow the service schedules listed in your owner’s manual. Replace filters and fluids as recommended; have engine performance problems (rough idling, poor acceleration, etc.) corrected at a repair facility. Given today’s high-tech engines, it’s wise to have this type of work done by auto technicians who are ASE certified in engine performance.
These conservation tips will not only save gasoline, they’ll help extend the life of your vehicle and help you conserve precious natural resources. Patriotism, indeed.
The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) was founded in 1972 as a non-profit, independent organization dedicated to improving the quality of automotive service and repair through the voluntary testing and certification of automotive technicians. ASE-certified technicians wear blue and white ASE shoulder insignia and carry credentials listing their exact area(s) of certification. Their employers often display the blue and white ASE sign.
Visit www.asecert.org for more information.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive-articles/gas-saving-tips-from-the-pros-193723.html
