Everyone knows that buying a used car is a great way to save money. However, the real key to frugal car ownership is performing your own maintenance at home. You can save hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars simply by performing your own routine maintenance on your vehicle.
When it comes to owning a car, there is no better way to ensure it has a long lifespan than with routine maintenance. However, not everyone is a trained mechanic — that’s why we put together this list of five valuable car maintenance tips that make your life easier. Whether you’re an expert mechanic or new to wrenching, you’re sure to find a useful tip on this list.
Keep Cardboard Boxes
While most people look at empty cardboard boxes as trash, us DIY mechanics look at them like they’re gold — and they kind of are. Cardboard boxes are perfect for repurposing in the garage since you can use them for a variety of jobs.
Don’t want to lay on a cold concrete floor? Put down a flattened cardboard box. Doing an oil change and don’t want oil on your garage floor? Easy solution: put down a flattened cardboard box. See where we’re going with this?
When you use cardboard boxes in your garage — you’re not just being savvy — you’re making a positive impact on the environment too. Why not save the environment while also saving your back from the cold concrete floor?
Get a Magnetic Dish
Staying organized is one of the most important parts of working on your car at home, that’s why this is one of our favorite tips to share. If you want to keep track of those pesky nuts and bolts that want to roll away on you, there is no better way to do it than with a magnetic dish.
A magnetic dish is exactly what it sounds like, a dish that is magnetized so you can easily store objects within it. You can attach the dish to your car so it is always within reach while you’re working, helping you keep track of things with ease.
If you’re looking for a magnetic dish, you can find them at your local hardware stores like Home Depot or Harbor Freight. Magnetic dishes are fairly inexpensive and their use will far outweigh any money you spend on it, so get one today!
A Little Light Goes a Long Way
Another great way to make life easier in the garage is to have a great light source. When you’re working on your car, things can get tough to see, especially when they’re covered in motor oil and dirt. That’s why we suggest having at least one good source of light handy in your garage at all times.
We recommend a headlamp as it’s a hands-free way to get light in the exact places you need it. However, if you don’t want to look like an angler fish, there are plenty of great shop lights out there to choose from. There are magnetic lights that you can attach to the car, old school “trouble” lights and fancy LED strip lights — all of which work great in the shop.
Don’t work on your car blind, stop by your local Harbor Freight and pick up a shop light today. No matter which light you choose, you’ll be glad you did it!
Take Pictures as You Go
Cars are complex pieces of machinery and while anyone can work on them, there are some best practices you should follow. This tip is an absolute must for any mechanic, be it experienced or not. If you want to make performing your own vehicle maintenance simple, taking pictures with each step is the best way to do it.
While you’re working on your car, keep your smartphone handy and snap pictures as you go. Chances are you’ll need to reference the pictures at some point during your repair, so it’s best to have them than not. If you’re ever unsure about how something goes back together, having a picture on hand really comes in handy.
Another bonus of taking pictures is being able to reference them down the line during other repairs. Need to take that manifold off again but can’t remember how? Just reference your tear-down photos from the last time and you’re off to the races. This simple tip will save you hours in the shop and endless frustration — so don’t forget it!
Replace Things in Pairs
Whenever you’re replacing an item your vehicle has more than one of, always replace all of them at once. There is no bigger annoyance than replacing an item on your car, only to have to do it all over again just a few short days or weeks later. That’s why we recommend always replacing things in pairs if they come in them.
Whether its brake pads, headlights, tires or anything else on a car — replacing both or all at once saves you time and frustration. The best part of this method is that you’ll never have to play the “when was that last replaced” guessing game!
When In Doubt, Visit Avalon Honda
Still unsure about your ability to work on your car? That’s okay, simply bring it to our service center here at Avalon Honda and our expert technicians will handle the rest. Whether you just need an oil change or a full engine rebuild, the expert technicians here at Avalon Honda can do it all.
If your car needs maintenance and you don’t want to do it at home, come on down to Avalon Honda and we’ll take care of it for you. At Avalon Honda, we make servicing your car a breeze. Simply stop by our service center or schedule an appointment ahead of time on our website — it’s really that easy.
Honda Increases Focus on Hybrid Models
As the world adopts more and more alternatives to fossil fuels, Honda is leading the way with its innovative lineup of hybrid and electric vehicles. With this global focus on finding fuel alternatives, Honda has committed to expanding its hybrid vehicle lineup — aiming for 100% zero-emission vehicle sales by 2040.
This plan will see two new CR-V Hybrid models introduced later this year, with an Accord Hybrid to follow shortly after. If you love Honda vehicles and want to cut down your fuel emissions, you won’t want to miss these exciting new hybrid models.
Keep reading to find out more about Honda’s plan for a fully-electrified future, then stop in at Avalon Honda. At Avalon Honda, we stock Cape May Court House’s largest selection of new, used and certified pre-owned Honda vehicles — all at the best prices. Stop in and test drive the CR-V Hybrid today!
An Electrified Future
The plan for Honda’s electrified future was laid out by global CEO Toshihiro Mibe in April 2021, and it was underway soon thereafter. Mibe’s plan is one part of the larger picture at Honda, with the corporation looking to achieve carbon-neutrality by 2050.
Honda aims to have 40 percent of its North American sales to be of battery-electric and fuel cell electric vehicles by 2030. From there, Honda hopes to have 80 percent of its sales from electric vehicles just five short years after, in 2035. By 2040, Honda will have reached its goal of 100 percent electric vehicle sales.
As a part of the plan to be carbon-neutral by 2040, Honda has announced it will release a new battery-electric vehicle in 2024 — the Prologue SUV. The Prologue was co-developed with GM and is based on their Ultium platform, a flat-cell battery platform developed for maximum range. Honda hopes to sell around 70,000 Prologues with their initial sales target projections.
After the Prologue is introduced, Honda has plans to work on introducing a series of electrified vehicles by 2026. This series of electrified vehicles will be built on the Honda e: Architecture platform, with vehicles being produced all throughout North America. Honda is targeting the release of 30 EV models by the year 2030, with many of those models available in both China and North America.
With this push toward electrifying its lineup, it is clear that Honda has its focus shifted toward a better, cleaner and greener future. If you want to become a part of the change, all you need to do is stop by Avalon Honda and buy one of Honda’s new electrified vehicles. Stop by our Cape May Court House location to test drive the electrified CR-V Hybrid today!
Your Honda Dealer
Are you looking for one of Honda’s new hybrid vehicles? If so, Avalon Honda is the Honda dealership for you. Located in Cape May Court House, we carry a huge selection of new and used Honda vehicles here at Avalon Honda — including the new CR-V Hybrid.
At Avalon Honda, you’ll always find the best prices on Honda cars, trucks, and SUVs — both new and used. If you don’t want to pay too much for your next Honda, there is only one place to shop, and that is Avalon Honda located in Cape May Court House.
The Definitive Guide to EV Charging
There are Levels to This
Ever since the first car was produced in 1886, internal combustion engines have been the driving force of vehicles. However, the search for an alternative has been underway for just as long and finally, we have an answer. Electric vehicles with electric motors.
Now, when most folks think of electric vehicles they imagine some futuristic-looking vehicle that will leave them stranded on the side of the highway with dead batteries — this couldn’t be more of a myth!
Electric vehicles, or EVs, have come a long way since the 1870s. They’re stylish, powerful, exciting to drive and most of all — reliable. Despite advances in EV technology, many people still doubt their practicality and cite range anxiety and lack of charging infrastructure.
This definitive guide to EV charging will teach you everything you need to know about EV charging, including how simple it is. Give this a quick read and then make sure to pay a visit to Avalon Honda to check out the electrifying Clarity Plug-In Hybrid.
Level 1 Charging
The most accessible level of charging, Level 1 charging stations allow you to charge your EV by plugging it into your household 120V outlet. This means you’ll be able to use your vehicle’s charger on any outlet in your residence, making charging a breeze.
Commonly referred to as “trickle charging”, level 1 is the slowest charging method available for EVs albeit one of the most convenient. You will see around four miles of range added to the vehicle each hour when using level 1 charging.
With a slow charging time, Level 1 is best utilized when you’re able to let your EV charge up overnight. That being said, there are a few other methods of charging that are faster if you’re in a rush, keep reading to find out what they are.
Level 2 Charging
One of the most common forms of EV charging, Level 2 charging can be found in both residential and public areas. It provides a much quicker charge than Level 1 chargers, adding up to 12-30 miles of range per hour. A full charge can be completed in 6-12 hours — depending on battery size — when using a Level 2 charger.
If you want a Level 2 charger at your home, it is plenty doable as long as you have an available 240V outlet. In the event you don’t have a 240V outlet, you must have one professionally installed before you are able to take advantage of Level 2 charging.
While most electric vehicles come with a Level 1 charging cable included, Level 2 chargers come at an extra cost. Simply ask your sales professional for pricing on a Level 2 charging cable and they should be able to provide you with one at delivery.
Looking to have a Level 2 charger installed at your house? Companies like ChargePoint and QMerit can help! Having a Level 2 charger installed at home will not only save you time but some money as well. In some cases, you may even be able to claim tax benefits for owning an EV and investing in a charger, refer to your local tax code for more info.
Level 3 Charging
Often referred to as DC Fast Charging, high-powered Level 3 chargers are only found at public charging stations across the country. They are the fastest and most-efficient way to charge your EV, as they add around 3-15 miles every minute!
Level 3 charging uses powerful direct current (DC) power, which is not found in residential areas as they use alternating current (AC). This means you won’t be able to have a Level 3 charging station at home, but if you do some Googling you may find one nearby.
The best benefit of Level 3 charging stations is their ability to charge your EV battery up to 80% capacity in a matter of minutes. This makes charging up during lunch break or while running errands a breeze and allows you to live a range-anxiety-free life.
As the popularity of EV’s continues to grow, you’ll start to see more and more Level 3 public charging stations popping up across the country. If you already own an EV, chances are you know all of your local charging stations — but if you don’t — check out Plugshare.
Stations Near You
Looking for somewhere to charge near you? No sweat, we took the time and did the research for you. If you’re in the Cape May Court House area and need to charge your EV, we’ve put together a shortlist of available public charging stations. Check out what we found:
- Cape May Court House Supercharger on 11 Court House South Dennis Road, Cape May, NJ 08210
While this list doesn’t have every charging station in Cape May Court House on it, it’s a great starting point for EV owners in Cape May Court House. As time goes on and more people adopt electric vehicles, charging infrastructure should start to increase — so keep an eye out!
Charged Up and Ready to Go
Now that you know all there is to know about charging an EV, making the switch doesn’t seem so scary now, does it? Despite what your octane-loving, mechanic cousin may say, electric vehicles truly are the future. With more home-charging options available and increasing public charging infrastructure, range anxiety is nothing more than a myth.
Whether you opt for a home charging station or you rely on public infrastructure, switching to an EV is the best option for the planet and your wallet. Owning an EV not only saves you at the pump it also saves you on repair bills too, as they require less maintenance than traditional cars.
Are you ready to make the switch to an electric vehicle? Then Avalon Honda can help! At Avalon Honda, we have Cape May Court House’s best selection of Honda vehicles, including the new Clarity Plug-In Hybrid. Whether you’re switching to an EV or sticking with a traditional engine — if you want the best prices on Honda vehicles — shop at Avalon Honda.
The Top 5 Reasons You Need an Electric Vehicle
As gas prices continue to rise with no end in sight, the appeal of electric vehicles is growing stronger with each passing day. Whether you have a short drive to work or an hourslong commute, chances are you are feeling the squeeze of surging fuel prices. Fret not, as there is a solution — an electric vehicle! That’s right, electric vehicles are the best alternative to skyrocketing gas prices and they’re environmentally friendly too.
While there are a number of reasons to purchase an electric vehicle in 2022, in this blog we’re going to list the five best reasons you should. Whether you’re budget conscious and looking for an alternative to these growing gas prices or you’re environmentally aware and looking for a way to benefit the earth, switching to an electric vehicle is one of the best decisions you stand to make. Gas prices aren’t going down any time soon, so don’t wait another minute, make the switch to an EV today.
Tax Incentives
One of the many reasons you may want to make the switch to an EV are the potential tax incentives you may qualify for from federal, local or state government. In attempts to draw the public away from fossil-fueled engines, the U.S. government has begun to offer tax incentives to help subsidize the cost of electric vehicles. Aiming for a population fully reliant on EVs, the U.S. government is offering a fairly large tax credit ranging from $2,500-7,500 for owners of hybrid and electric vehicles.
Some states and local governments may also offer tax incentives or programs for EV owners, such as California’s Clean Vehicle Rebate Project (CVRP). This program gives rebate savings directly to owners/lessees of qualifying electric vehicles, making them far more attractive to buy as opposed to a traditional internal combustion engine. If you want to find out more about your local and state government rebates and incentives for electric vehicles, all you have to do is visit their website for more info.
With so many rebates and incentives available, it is no surprise that there has been a major shift to electric vehicles by both consumers and automakers alike. Are you ready to save cash while saving the environment? If so, its time to stop by Avalon Honda and make the switch to an electric vehicle today.
More Affordable to Drive
Yet another great reason to switch to electric vehicles — they are far more affordable to drive than your traditional internal combustion engine. The cost of owning an electric vehicle is largely reduced due to it not needing any fuel or the regular maintenance a traditional internal combustion engine requires. In addition to not needing fuel, electric motors have far fewer moving parts than an internal combustion engine and do not require any oil changes.
Another reason EVs are more affordable is their use of regenerative braking. Regenerative braking uses the electric motor to slow down the vehicle, which lengthens the lifespan of your brake pads while also charging your EV batteries. This not only saves you from spending on brake pads, but it also keeps you from having to hit the charging station as well — saving you both time and money.
If you’re looking for a good reason to make the switch to an electric vehicle, all you have to do is look at your wallet. Whether it’s savings at the pump or at the mechanic, making the switch to an electric vehicle puts more money in your pocket while reducing your carbon footprint. Reduce your dependence on fossil fuels and the oil industry, make the switch to an electric vehicle — available here at Avalon Honda today.
Surprisingly Sporty Performance
Do you enjoy sporty performance each time you get behind the wheel? Then an electric vehicle is for you! Unlike regular engines, electric motors provide near-instantaneous torque when you step on the pedal. This allows you to experience the thrill of going 0 to 60 MPH in mere seconds, without putting a huge dent in your wallet.
Electric vehicles also boast incredible handling capabilities thanks to their lower center of gravity and impeccable weight distribution. Most EVs are designed with a battery pack positioned in the center of the vehicle, which increases handling, stability and cornering while also minimizing the potential for rollovers.
You don’t need a car with four rings or a horse on the front to enjoy a sporty driving experience — all you need is an electric vehicle!
Better Safety
Driving a car down a public road comes with it’s own set of hazards — hazards we typically tend to accept without even a second thought. When you really think about it, hurling down the road in a few tons of metal filled with a flammable liquid probably is not the best idea and is frankly, a bit anxiety-inducing.
Electric vehicles may not be the perfect answer when it comes to safety. However, they are far safer than a traditional car, truck or SUV that uses an internal combustion engine. Wondering how that is possible? It’s simple — electric vehicles don’t use gas and contain fewer components than traditional vehicles.
Being that electric vehicles have fewer components than traditional vehicles, manufacturers are able to approach vehicle design in a new manner. This new approach has led to improved crumple zones, stronger body design and improved overall safety. Remember the mention of battery packs in EVs being located in the center of the vehicle? That also provides extra safety as it lowers the EVs center of gravity and removes the use of gas, a very flammable substance.
Are you ready for a phenomenal driving experience but want peace of mind, knowing you and your family are safe? Then you need to make the switch to an electric vehicle today! Electric vehicles aren’t just better for the environment, they’re safer to drive as well.
Great for the Environment
One of the more obvious reasons behind buying an electric vehicle is the impact — or lack thereof — that they have on the environment. While internal combustion engines are gas-powered and require regular oil changes to operate, electric vehicles feature an electric motor that doesn’t need fuel or oil to run. This means not only will you save money on fuel and oil changes, but you’ll also be helping out the environment too.
The rise of electric vehicles has also sparked a rise in the use of solar panels in homes throughout the United States. Solar panels are great, they allow you to harness the sun’s energy and use it in lieu of traditional fossil fuels that harm the environment. Many owners of EVs are now installing solar panels on their homes in order to reduce their electricity bill — and further reduce their carbon footprint.
If you want to do your part in helping the environment, buying an EV is a great way to do so. Electric vehicles don’t need oil changes, don’t need gas and can even be charged up using solar power. Are you environmentally conscious? If so, then you need to switch to an electric vehicle as soon as possible.
Are You Ready?
Now that you’ve read through the top five reasons to purchase an electric vehicle, are you ready to make the switch? If so, then Avalon Honda is here to help. Here at Avalon Honda, we don’t just have Cape May Court House’s best selection of new and used vehicles — we have the largest selection of electric vehicles too! If you want to eliminate your gas expense and reduce your carbon footprint then you need to stop by Avalon Honda and purchase your first EV today.
Honda Continues Drive Toward Electrified Future
September 20, 2021 — TORRANCE, Calif.
- Initial annual sales target for Honda Prologue to top 70,000 units at launch in 2024
- Electrified Honda vehicle sales anticipated to reach 500,000 units by 2030 as the company advances vision of 100 percent zero emissions sales by 2040
Honda today announced an initial annual sales target of 70,000 units for the Prologue SUV, Honda’s first new volume battery-electric vehicle (BEV), when it goes on sale in 2024. Following the launch of Prologue, Honda brand electrified vehicle sales will be boosted by the introduction of additional vehicles based on its new e-Architecture now being developed. This will take Honda to anticipated sales of 500,000 BEVs by 2030, and ultimately leading to 100 percent zero emission vehicles sales in North America by 2040.
As with other automakers, Honda’s initial zero emission vehicle sales goals of 40 percent by 2030 are contingent upon fair and equitable access to state and federal EV incentives intended to encourage American consumers to purchase electric vehicles. Honda has urged Congress to ensure that all vehicles made in America are treated equally.
“Launching our first volume BEV in 2024 is the start of an exciting new direction for Honda,” said Dave Gardner, executive vice president of National Operations at American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “We are working with our dealers to plan the transition from sales of primarily gasoline-powered vehicles to selling 100-percent electric vehicles by 2040.”
Honda’s initial approach to selling the Prologue will be regional, focusing on California and the ZEV states, including the BEV-friendly sunbelt states of Texas and Florida. Honda anticipates these regions will represent the bulk of sales at the onset of launch due to higher customer acceptance and regulatory requirements. As EV infrastructure expands and customer interest grows nationwide, the company will rapidly expand sales and marketing efforts to other areas of the country.
In April 2021, Honda global CEO Toshihiro Mibe outlined the company’s vision for global sales of electrified vehicles as part of Honda’s strategy to achieve carbon-neutrality for its products and corporate activities by 2050. This vision calls for the sales ratio of battery-electric and fuel cell electric vehicles in North America to progress from 40 percent by 2030 and 80 percent by 2035 to 100 percent by 2040. More details about that announcement, are available here.
Following the 2024 introduction of Honda Prologue, co-developed with GM and based on the Ultium platform, Honda will introduce a series of electrified vehicles in the second half of the decade based on the Honda developed e-Architecture and production of BEVs beginning at Honda plants in North America.
Honda Electrified Vehicle History
Honda has a long history of leadership in bringing electrified vehicles to market in the U.S., beginning almost a quarter century ago with the EV Plus electric vehicle (1997); to America’s first mass-produced hybrid, the Honda Insight (1999); the Honda FCX (2002), the industry’s first fuel cell vehicle in the hands of individual customers, and the Clarity series (2017). As Honda prepares for the launch of Prologue, the company will introduce hybrid-electric systems to more core models to continue to reduce CO2 emissions and bridge customers to the volume battery-electric vehicles now in development.
“We know customers who have a good experience with a hybrid vehicle are more likely to buy a battery electric vehicle in the future,” said Gardner. “Our strategy is focused on introducing a higher percentage of hybrids in core models in the near term, making a committed effort to achieve higher volume leading to the introduction of our Honda Prologue.”
Honda achieved record sales of electrified vehicles in each of the past three years, with sales momentum continuing in 2021. Led by CR-V Hybrid and Accord Hybrid, Honda just recorded its best-ever first-half year of electrified vehicle sales.
About Honda
Honda offers a full line of clean, safe, fun and connected vehicles sold through more than 1,000 independent U.S. Honda dealers. Honda has the highest fleet average fuel economy and lowest CO2 emissions of any major full-line automaker in America, according to the latest data from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The Honda lineup includes the Civic, Insight, Accord and Clarity series passenger cars, along with the HR-V, CR-V, Passport and Pilot sport utility vehicles, the Ridgeline pickup and the Odyssey minivan.
Honda has been producing automobiles in America for 38 years and currently operates 18 major manufacturing facilities in North America. In 2020, more than 95 percent of all Honda vehicles sold in the U.S. were made in North America, using domestic and globally sourced parts.
More information about Honda is available in the Digital Fact Book.
Source Article: Honda Newsroom
Is Buying a Car in 2022 Worth It?
With the COVID-19 Pandemic coming to a close, consumers are once again demanding a large supply of new vehicles. One that cannot yet be fulfilled by the world’s manufacturers due to a massive shortage of semiconductors with no end in sight.
This shortage has dealerships all over the country scrambling to find a way to put customers behind the wheel of a new vehicle. With the ongoing shortage and rising prices, you may be wondering if now is the right time to buy a new vehicle at Avalon Honda, and this blog just may help you decide.
At Avalon Honda, the shortage isn’t stopping them from stocking the Cape May Court House, NJ area’s best selection of new, pre-owned and certified pre-owned Honda vehicles. Whether you’re looking for a new or pre-owned vehicle, Avalon Honda has plenty of options for you to choose from. Don’t let the shortage hold you back, stop by and see why Avalon Honda is Cape May Court House’s favorite Honda dealer today!
Rising Prices, Dwindling Inventory
As the world slowly returns to form after the COVID-19 Pandemic, the global supply chain is struggling to keep up after such a long period of disruption. Back in 2020, with the world at the height of the pandemic, factories all over the world shut down to stop the spread, while subsequently stopping the production of goods.
During the global shutdown, inventory began to pile up on dealership lots all throughout the United States. With each passing day, the cost of insurance and interest on this sitting inventory totaled in the hundreds of thousands, causing dealership owners a slight panic. This time of uncertainty and panic was not here to stay long, as a bigger problem awaited dealership owners in the near future.
Fast forward a year to 2021, dealerships throughout the U.S. are struggling to keep up with demand for inventory as manufacturers struggle to produce new vehicles. This struggle is largely due to a semiconductor shortage that was sparked by the worldwide lockdowns that took place during the pandemic. With factories shut down and semiconductors not being made, new vehicles ceased to be produced and vehicle manufacturers found themselves struggling to fulfill dealership orders.
In response to the growing supply chain issue, dealerships began to turn their focus toward to used vehicle market, encouraging customers to sell their used vehicles or complete trade-ins. With used vehicles more desirable than ever and equipped government-backed stimulus checks, consumers throughout the United States flocked to dealerships to trade in their old vehicles in favor of new ones.
The rush by dealerships to find ways to supplement the shortage of new vehicles only further exacerbated that shortage, leaving dealerships in a pickle. Now dealerships have droves of customers clamoring to trade-in their vehicles, with no new vehicles to sell those customers, resulting in long waiting lists and disgruntled customers.
With this shortage, you may be wondering if now is the right time to start the search for a vehicle. The answer here at Avalon Honda is a resounding, YES! Despite the supply chain issues and a shortage of new vehicles, there has never been a better time to trade in your old vehicle in favor of purchasing a new one. Keep reading to find out why!
The Time Is Now
If you’re wondering if it’s a smart idea to buy a car in 2022, the answer is YES! Now, you may be doubting that because of what you just read above…but fear not! There truly has never been a better time to buy a new car, truck or SUV — and here are some reasons why.
Interest Rates
One of the biggest reasons you should be buying a car right now is because of the incredibly low-interest rates that are available. Right now, banks are loaning out money at record-setting rates in attempts to reinvigorate the struggling, post-pandemic economy. With rates as low as 0.99% APR available, it’s a no-brainer to buy a new vehicle right now as rates like this aren’t typically available.
If you want the best interest rates on the widest selection of new and pre-owned Honda vehicles, stop by Avalon Honda located in Cape May Court House today!
Your Car Is Worth More Than Ever Before
Yeah, you read that right…your old car is worth more than ever before thanks to the shortage of new inventory. Typically, all cars begin depreciating the moment they leave the dealership lot. However, in this whacky post-pandemic economy, some vehicles have actually gained value as they aged.
As dealerships all over the country make a push to purchase used vehicles and increase trade-ins, the value of used vehicles has increased astronomically. That means there has never been a better time to purchase a new vehicle, as your trade-in is worth more than its ever been. If you’ve been tossing around the idea of buying a new car, you’ll want to act now before the value of your used car plummets back to pre-pandemic prices and you lose out on thousands.
You can get the best value for your used car, truck or SUV at Avalon Honda located in Cape May Court House, NJ. At Avalon Honda, they have the Cape May Court House area’s best selection of new and pre-owned Honda vehicles, so stop by and check out their inventory today!
Customize Your New Vehicle
Due to the semiconductor shortage, chances are you will be waiting on a new vehicle to be built and shipped to the United States before you buy it. This wait may seem like nothing but a hassle when in reality it is the best thing that could happen. Wondering why it’s the best thing that could happen? Keep reading to find out why!
While it may not seem ideal to buy a car that hasn’t yet been built, there are some advantages to doing so. A car that hasn’t been built yet means you can tailor to fit your exact needs and specifications. That means you can forego features you won’t use and add features you may not have been able to find on a specific trim of that vehicle. With the added flexibility that comes with ordering a new Honda vehicle, it truly makes right now better than ever to buy a new vehicle.
Stop by Avalon Honda located in Cape May Court House to place an order for your new Honda vehicle today!
Reasons You Should Avoid Buying a Car in 2022
This blog would not be complete without a good counterargument. So, let’s talk about a few reasons why you may want to avoid buying a new car, truck or SUV in 2022.
Seemingly Endless Waiting Lists
One good reason to avoid purchasing a new or pre-owned vehicle in 2022 is the waiting game. Let’s face it, nobody wants to spend their hard-earned money on a vehicle they have to spend months waiting for. However, the reality of this post-pandemic world is filled with long waiting lists for new vehicles of all shapes and sizes.
If you’re considering purchasing a new car, truck or SUV, make sure to inquire about the average waiting time at your dealership of choice. Another thing to keep in mind is delays do happen, especially with the rampant issues in the global supply chain. That being said, if you place an order for a new vehicle, be prepared to be patient.
Patience is a virtue they say, and if it’s a virtue that escapes you, perhaps its best to look into a pre-owned vehicle instead. If a pre-owned vehicle is something you would consider, Avalon Honda has plenty of them to choose from at their Cape May Court House location — stop by today!
Record-High Prices
An unfortunate consequence of the vehicle shortage has been the steep rise in the prices of new vehicles. With incredibly high demand and constrained supply lines, the cost of new vehicles is rising to record highs in a staggeringly short amount of time. Many new vehicles are flying off of dealership lots, sometimes for prices above the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP).
Although interest rates are at all-time lows, it still may be wise to refrain from purchasing a new car, truck or SUV in 2022 thanks to the rising cost of new vehicles. If you want to save money and can keep driving your current vehicle, it just may be best to wait out this influx of pricing on new vehicles.
Fewer Options
Yet another drawback to purchasing a new vehicle during this shortage is the lack of available options. Due to the semiconductor shortage, vehicle manufacturers are opting to only produce certain types and trims of vehicles, leaving less variety to choose from. This is being done in an effort to keep profits where they need to be while dealing with a constrained supply of vehicles and parts.
During this shortage, you run the chance of walking onto a dealership lot and not being able to find a vehicle to fit your wants or needs. Many vehicles that are being produced right now are coming loaded with options and features, which increases the cost and makes them less appealing to budget-conscious consumers.
If you’re considering purchasing a new vehicle in these times, keep in mind that you may not get exactly what you want in a vehicle. This can be prevented with a little patience, all you have to do is simply wait out this global semiconductor shortage which should be over soon. Getting the vehicle of your dreams is still possible despite the worldwide shortage of vehicles, so don’t lose hope!
The Answer Is
Now that both sides to the argument have been made, the answer to the question “Is Buying a Car in 2022 Worth It” still remains a resounding yes. This is because the power is still in the hands of the consumer, even with the reduced supply of new and pre-owned vehicles. Consumers are more powerful than ever in the post-pandemic world, and it’s because struggling companies need every dollar they can get. Keep this in mind when shopping for your next vehicle, whether it’s new or pre-owned.
If you’re still reading and have realized that now is better than ever to buy a new vehicle, then stop by Avalon Honda located in Cape May Court House, NJ today! At Avalon Honda, they stock the Cape May Court House, NJ area’s biggest selection of new, pre-owned and certified pre-owned Honda vehicles and sell them at the best prices. Get the best deal on your next Honda vehicle by shopping at Avalon Honda located in Cape May Court House today!
January 27, 2022 — RUSSELLS POINT, Ohio
Associates at the Honda Transmission Plant in Ohio recently earned the Ohio Department of Transportation’s Gold Star Adopt-a-Highway designation. The Honda facility’s associates were honored for 25 years of their volunteer litter collection events along the Russells Point facility’s roadways.
Gold Star Adopt-a-Highway designation is awarded to organizations for events held for five or more years, that have conducted at least four pickups per year and that completed them safely. Over the last 25 years, Honda Transmission Plant associates have held more than 100 Adopt-a- Highway events, consistently prioritizing safety while promoting environmental excellence through the initiatives.
“This honor celebrates our Honda associates who have volunteered over the past quarter century to make our community a better place by collecting litter during Adopt-a-Highway events,” said Gerald Bruch, plant lead at the Honda Transmission Plant in Ohio. “Our goal as a company is to be a company that society wants to exist and it is the efforts of Honda associates that help make that possible.”
Honda Transmission Plant associates have conducted litter pickup events on State Route 235, State Route 274 and State Route 708.
“I enjoy participating in the Adopt-a-Highway program because I know it’s making a difference in the community,” said Scott A. Williams, an Ohio transmission plant associate who has participated in the litter collection events throughout the last 25 years. “I am proud to work for a company like Honda that takes time to contribute to the community. It makes associates feel good driving down the road and looking at green grass and knowing that what we do with this program makes a difference.”
About the Honda Transmission Plant in Ohio
Honda’s Transmission Plant in Ohio began producing automatic transmissions for North American-built models in 1996. Today, the plant produces CVT transmissions and their high- precision gears, rear differentials and transfer cases for all-wheel-drive automobiles, gear sets for the 10-speed automatic transmission assembled in Honda’s Georgia Transmission Plant and the two-motor hybrid system that helps Honda hybrid-electric vehicles produced in the U.S. In 2014, the Ohio Transmission Plant became the first auto transmission plant in the U.S. to obtain a substantial amount of its electricity directly from two wind turbines located on its property and, in 2019, the first U.S. auto transmission plant to earn the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s ENERGY STAR certification.
Honda “Green Factory” Initiative
Honda seeks to produce vehicles with the lowest CO2 emissions at plants with the smallest environmental footprint. The company’s “green factory” initiative is working comprehensively to address the environmental impacts of product manufacturing, including water use, energy use, waste and emissions. Honda has reduced the CO2 emissions intensity of automobile production in North America by 12 percent since 2012 and has cut waste to landfills from manufacturing by 90 percent since 2001.
All Honda mass production auto plants earned 2020 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ENERGY STAR Certification for outstanding energy efficiency. The company also is moving toward the use of renewable wind and solar power for the vast majority of the electricity it consumes in its manufacturing operations. Honda is investing in technologies and processes to produce electrified vehicles in North America, including the Accord Hybrid and Acura NSX in Ohio and the Honda Insight hybrid sedan and CR-V Hybrid in Indiana.
Learn more at https://csr.honda.com/environment/na-environmental-report/.
Source Article: Honda Newsroom
Need your oil changed? Have it done here at Avalon Honda located in Cape May Court House, NJ.
Some may say that the engine is the most important part of your vehicle, but the truth is, it isn’t the engine itself, but what runs through it that is the most important part of your vehicle. Engine oil is the most important part of your vehicle, as it protects vital components of your engine that keep your car running right. Through short trips, weekend joy rides, and long cruises, the oil in your engine heats up and cools off multiple times, and must not degrade during this process as that could cause engine wear and tear, and eventual failure.
To keep engine oil from degrading quickly, oil manufacturers turned to synthetic oil blends which degrade at a slower rate and even provide improved protection to the engine. Synthetic oil is far more refined than traditional oil, resulting in less engine friction, reduced sludge buildup, and even better engine performance.
If you’re located in Cape May Court House or the surrounding areas and wondering when you should change your oil, you’ll want to read the rest of this blog!
What is Synthetic Oil?
Synthetic oil is an artificial lubricant that was designed to reduce friction and wear of internal combustion engines, as well as replace traditional motor oil. Developed from chemically modified petroleum instead of crude oil, synthetic oil provides better performance by reducing friction and wear of your engine, far better than a traditional motor oil can. Synthetic oil tends to degrade at a slower rate than traditional motor oil, making it an attractive choice to auto manufacturers attempting to keep their vehicle maintenance costs low.
One of the best benefits of synthetic oil that often goes overlooked is it’s reduced impact on the environment. With synthetic oil usage on the rise, the world’s reliance on crude oil has decreased, thus reducing the environmental impact that oil has. If you want to reduce your vehicle maintenance costs, wear and tear, and environmental impact, using synthetic oil in your car is the way to go!
Why Should I Use Synthetic Oil?
The use of synthetic oil isn’t just about reducing your environmental impact or stopping the use of crude oil throughout the world, its best trick is increasing the performance of your engine! Synthetic oil is great to use in your engine, as it can withstand a wider range of temperatures, is more stable, and causes less engine sludge. Using synthetic oil also means your internal engine parts will stay better lubricated, meaning less wear and tear on your engine and better performance too.
With a longer lifecycle, synthetic oil allows you to stretch the time between changes, as they last anywhere from 7,500 to 15,000 miles. This longer lifecycle means you can save money and not worry about your engine’s performance degrading or being at risk. If you own a newer car with a turbocharged or hybrid engine, using synthetic oil is a must as these engines have higher compression ratios which cause extreme wear and tear.
How Often Should I Change My Oil?
Each vehicle and engine has different requirements for oil change intervals, but its been a general rule of thumb to change your oil every three months or 3,000 miles. These days, however, oil change intervals seem to be growing, with most manufacturers making the switch to synthetic or fully synthetic oil. Since synthetic oil takes far longer to degrade and can withstand higher temperatures, you should be able to stretch out the time you take between oil changes.
With most synthetic oil manufacturers claiming to get tens of thousands of miles between each oil change, it’s easy to get confused about when you should be swapping out your oil. The best way to know when to get an oil change is to read your car’s owner’s manual, as it will list all the various service intervals needed to maintain your car properly. If you’re unsure of when to change your oil, simply call up the parts and service experts here at Avalon Honda, we’ll be happy to provide you with that information.
Where Can I Get Synthetic Oil?
You can purchase synthetic oil from your local auto supply store, or you could stop in here at Avalon Honda as we stock the widest variety of synthetic oils around. Not only will we have the exact synthetic oil and filter you’re looking for in stock, but we’ll have it at the best price as well.
Is it time to change your oil? Have it changed here at Avalon Honda, as we have the best team of expert mechanics and the lowest prices in the Cape May Court House area. Don’t waste your precious weekend beneath your vehicle, let our certified mechanics here at Avalon Honda Service Center, located in Cape May Court House, NJ.
For a historic and record-breaking 36th time, the Honda Accord has found itself on Car and Driver’s 10Best Award list this year. The Honda Accord has long found itself on this prestigious list, however, landing on it for the 36th time is a true marvel to behold. Honda is the most winningest brand in Car and Driver 10Best history, with at least one Honda vehicle making it to the prestigious list every year since its inception in 1983, making a total of 66 awards. Known for their incredible reliability and outstanding value, its no surprise that Honda has once again found itself topping Car and Driver’s 10Best Award list for the 36th time.
Earning a spot on Car and Driver’s 10Best Award list is no easy feat, as it is comprised of the best cars, trucks, and SUVs available on the market, and competition is quite fierce. Despite such fierce competition, Honda, and more specifically the Accord, finds itself at the top of that list year after year. The Accord performs at such a high level, even the team at Car and Driver finds it hard to resist recommending.
“Year after year we find ourselves recommending the Honda Accord to friends and family looking for a fun-to-drive, safe and fuel-efficient sedan,” said Eddie Alterman, Chief Brand Officer of Car and Driver. “Refined, dynamically engaging, and affordable, the 2022 Honda Accord is the benchmark of the midsize sedan class. Congratulations to Honda on Accord’s impressive winning streak.”
Honda holds Car and Driver’s 10Best list in quite a high regard, seeing it as a list that even represents the same core values that Honda does. This is evidenced by a quote from Honda’s Vice President of National Sales, Michael Kistemaker, as he is quoted as saying — “At Honda, we have long appreciated Car and Driver‘s recognition of its own core values in our Honda Accord –intelligence, irreverence, and independence. It helps that Accord also happens to be fun-to-drive, safe, and fuel-efficient…Thank you to the editors of Car and Driver for honoring the Accord for a record 36th year. It never gets old.”
In order to keep themselves appearing at the top of Car and Driver’s 10Best list, Honda has always flowed with the times, keeping their vehicles on the cutting edge of technology and design trends. Keeping the Accord up with the times, Honda has replaced the EX trim level on the Accord Hybrid, with the new and exciting Sport trim level. Some of the key features on the new Accord Hybrid Sport include the following:
- 19-inch alloy wheels
- LED Headlamps
- LED Fog Lights
- A black rear spoiler
- Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration
- Heated front seats
- Sirius XM Radio
- An 8-speaker audio system
- Sport pedals
With so many exciting new additions and features, it’s easy to see why the Honda Accord is consistently rated by Car and Driver as one of the best cars available on the market, year after year. However, the Accord hasn’t just built its name based on the features and technology it offers, its name is built upon a strong foundation of performance and reliability.
Reliability is one of Honda’s strong suits, as they have been known to produce some of the most reliable and longest-lasting vehicles on the market today. Honda has not strayed from this mindset, as they are offering some of the most reliable powertrains their cars have ever had in them. The 2022 Honda Accord made its way to the top of Car and Driver’s 10Best list thanks to these three wonderful and reliable powertrains:
- A 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine and CVT transmission; capable of 192-horsepower.
- A 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine and 10-speed automatic; capable of 252-horsepower.
- A 2-motor hybrid powertrain; capable of 212-horsepower and up to 48mpg combined.
These ultra-reliable and high-performing powertrains helped propel the 2022 Honda Accord to the top of Car and Driver’s 10Best list, and it’s no secret as to why. Honda’s efforts on the 2022 Accord have once again set the bar for other cars in the midsize sedan segment, a segment that Honda has long dominated. For the last 50 years, the Honda Accord has been one of America’s best-selling cars, selling over 14 million units in the United States, with over 12 million of those units being made right here in the U.S.
Are you located in Cape May Court House or the surrounding areas, and looking to get your hands on the award-winning 2022 Honda Accord? Then Avalon Honda is the Honda dealer for you, as we keep the largest inventory of new, pre-owned, and certified pre-owned Hondas in the Cape May Court House area. Stop in today and speak with one of our sales professionals about test driving the award-winning 2022 Honda Accord, as it was voted into Car and Driver’s 10Best list for the 36th time in its illustrious history. If you want the best deals on Honda cars in the Cape May Court House area, they can be had right here at Avalon Honda today!
Source Article: Honda Newsroom
Avalon Honda’s Top Tips for Winter Driving
Winter is coming! That means it’s time to start preparing your vehicle for the cold temperatures and harsh weather to come. With harsh weather and cold temperatures comes car problems that could leave you out in the cold. Ensure you and your vehicle make it through the winter without any hiccups by following these wonderful tips on winterizing your vehicle.
Not ready to winterize your vehicle on your own? Avalon Honda can help, as our service and parts professionals have the knowledge and product to help you keep your vehicle in tip-top shape during the winter months.
Batteries Need Attention, Too
One of the best ways to ensure you and your vehicle survive the winter is to check and maintain your battery. The battery in your vehicle is one of the most important parts of your car, as it not only helps the vehicle start-up, but it keeps all of the accessories running, including that precious heat system. As the temperatures drop outside, so does the cranking power and charge of your battery, so make sure to constantly check your battery to ensure it’s operating effectively.
Checking the charge level on your battery is simple, just bring it to the service center here at Avalon Honda and one of our technicians can perform a voltage check on your battery. This voltage check can alert you to upcoming issues with your battery, as well as tell you if it needs to be serviced or replaced entirely. If you need to replace your battery, the technicians here at Avalon Honda can have a new one installed in your vehicle swiftly, and at a great price too!
Avoid breaking out the jumper cables by having your battery checked before the winter comes, it could be the difference between a smooth winter ride and being stranded in a cold vehicle. Stop by Avalon Honda Service Center today to have your battery tested, serviced, or replaced.
Check Those Tires
A good set of tires goes a long way during the cold season, as it helps keep your vehicle on the road and under control during heavy braking. Before you embark on a winter journey, make sure to check out your tires, the cold months can cause cracking in the rubber, and low tread levels can be disastrous in icy conditions. Opting for a solid set of winter tires is also a fantastic way to stay safe while driving during the cold months, as they perform better in cold weather and icy conditions.
Have your tires inspected, serviced or replaced in our service center, here at Avalon Honda located in Cape May Court House, NJ today!
Wiper Blades
Are you having a hard time seeing through the ice and the snow? Maybe it’s time to change out your wiper blades, so they can perform better for you this winter. There is nothing worse than trying to navigate a winter storm with streaky windshield wipers that miss large parts of your windshield. Most folks tend to overlook their windshield wipers when it comes to basic maintenance, only to scramble to replace them once winter hits and they can’t see through the blizzard.
Routinely checking your windshield wiper blades for wear and tear is a great way to catch problems before they arise. Another good way to ensure long life out of your windshield wiper blades is to lift them off the car before a winter storm comes, this will prevent the rubber from getting frozen to the windshield while the vehicle sits. Avoid using your wiper blades as a means of clearing ice from your windshield, as this can cause premature wear and tear on your wiper blades.
Keep your windshield clean and free of debris with a set of fresh wiper blades, installed by the professionals here at Avalon Honda.
Top Off Your Fluids
Keeping up with your fluid levels is always important when you own a vehicle, doubly so for those that live in places with harsh winter months. A car that lacks the proper levels of fluids will struggle to perform at its peak, making daily driving a hassle and potentially even dangerous. Some fluids to keep an eye on are:
- Coolant (Anti-Freeze): This fluid not only keeps your engine running at optimal temperatures, but it also helps keep fluids in the vehicle from freezing during the winter as well. Coolant goes in your coolant reservoir and runs throughout the engine to provide cooling, but it also can be added to your washer fluid to prevent those lines from freezing as well. Coolant is one of the most important fluids to monitor in your vehicle.
- Engine Oil: It may seem obvious, but having the proper level of oil in your vehicle is extremely important in keeping your engine and car running. Engine oil lubricates the necessary parts of the engine so it can run smoothly, as metal on metal doesn’t bode well for the life of your engine. Engine oil behaves differently in extremely cold temperatures, therefore you may need to use a special blend during the winter months. If you need help determining which engine oil is right for your vehicle, speak with one of our service technicians here at Avalon Honda today!
- Washer Fluid: Although washer fluid may not be the first fluid on your mind when it comes to maintaining your vehicle, it is an important one to remember during the winter. With most cities that get snow using a salt or brine mixture to keep roads clear, your windshield gets dirty quite quickly during the winter, and that’s why it’s important to keep your washer fluid full. One good snowstorm can see you running your washer fluid tank dry, so always keep an extra bottle on hand during the winter months to avoid disaster.
Ensure you have a safe and easy winter, make an appointment today to get your winter car servicing performed here at Avalon Honda.
Test Your Climate Control
Testing your climate control systems before the winter hits is an absolute must if you want to survive the winter comfortably. Before you start driving this winter, make sure to check the defroster and heating functions of your climate control system, as you most likely haven’t used them since last winter. Check your climate control in just a few seconds, simply run your defroster and heat at each fan speed and temperature available. This simple action will tell you if you have any climate control issues so you can have them fixed just in time for winter.
If your climate control system needs servicing, our service professionals here at Avalon Honda can help! Located in Cape May Court House, NJ, Avalon Honda’s Service Center is the best place to have your pre-winter vehicle inspection performed.
Be Prepared
It sounds cliche, but being prepared for the worst-case scenario is actually the best thing you can do. When it comes to being prepared for winter driving, the above tips are always great to follow but its also important to go a step further and have an emergency scenario bag packed and available in your vehicle.
Keep a bag full of spare clothes, including winter clothes in your vehicle. Inside of this bag should not only be clothing, but a blanket, a first aid kit, a flashlight, jumper cables, a cellphone charger, and some snacks. You can feel free to add more to this bag, but this is the bare minimum we recommend keeping in each one of your vehicles.
Imagine traveling down a back-country road in the winter, when suddenly you lose traction and skid off the road. Luckily nobody is hurt, but your car is disabled and needs to be towed out of the ditch on the side of the road. Waiting for that tow truck in below-freezing temperatures in a car with no heat is not ideal, however, it’s much easier when you have a winter emergency bag in your vehicle.
Winter Servicing
From a fluid top-off to new tires, and everything in-between, Avalon Honda is the place to have your annual winter vehicle servicing performed. Here at Avalon Honda, our highly trained service professionals are dedicated to making sure your vehicle is safe and ready to tackle any adventure you throw at it. Ensure you have safety and peace of mind each time you hit the road this winter, have your vehicle winterized by the service professionals here at Avalon Honda today!
Connect with us
Recent Blog Entries
- The Return of an Icon: The 2026 Honda Prelude
- Honda Doubles Its Commitment to Support California Wildfire Relief with $1 Million Donation
- 2025 Toyota Camry vs. 2025 Honda Accord: Sedan Showdown
- Discover the 2026 Honda Passport: A New Era for Off-Roaders
- Don’t Get Caught in a Sticky Situation. Know What to do in a Recall!