The Auto Service Clinic at Lute Riley Honda in Richardson, TX had an incredible turnout. For the customers and Honda aficionados that attended, we had free Dickey's BBQ, door prizes, a drawing for an LCD big screen TV,  a very special guest speaker, and importantly, cost cutting techniques that can lower your cost of ownership even more, if that's possible, on your Honda. Please attend our next Service Clinic on April 14th, 2010 at 7:00PM. All you need to do is e-mail or call Josie at josephine.mcFarland@luterileyhonda.com or 972-238-1700 Ext. 2325 to RSVP your reservation.
 

Lute Riley Honda reminds you to check your vehicle's tire pressure regularly. Specifications are found in the owner's manual, and may also be printed on tags attached to the car. Maintaining proper inflation pressure not only yields better fuel economy, but also ensures long tire life and safe motoring. Keep a tire pressure gauge in your glove box! More info on your car tire maintenance and service here.

Keeping your car's fluids clean and topped up is essential to maintaining longevity and optimal operation. Engine oil should be changed at recommended intervals or when indicated by oil life sensors. Your car's radiator fluid needs to be checked for cleanliness and temperature range, while brake fluid should remain free of water, dirt and air.

Maximizing fuel economy is on everyone's mind today. Here are three quick ways to ensure your car is running efficiently:
- Check your tire pressure with a gauge! Visual inspection does not suffice.
- Remove unnecessary weight. Don't allow clutter to gather.
- Obey speed limits, and accelerate/brake sensibly.
- Follow manufacturer recommended auto service schedules

Starting in 2007, all Honda models came equipped with a maintenance minder system.  This system calculates the life of the engine oil, transmission fluid, air and cabin filters, coolant, spark plugs, timing belt (if equipped), and rear differential fluid.  Because the auto's computer is calculating the lifespan of the different items, a scheduled maintenance list based on mileage is no longer used.

The computer determines the life of each item based on the driving conditions of your vehicle.  If the engine runs at higher temperatures and rpm, or at low temperatures during short trips, the oil life will deplete faster than an engine running under normal conditions.  It will indicate a percentage of oil life on the vehicle's display.

This system is unique in that it has the ability to move up or delay other services so when it's time to have an oil change, it will tell you the other services needed at the same time to keep the service visits to a minimum.

A percentage will show on the display starting at 100 %, diminishing as the vehicle is driven.  Once the percentage gets to 15, a wrench is illuminated on the dash letting the driver know that service is due soon.  At 5% the service is due now, and at 0% the service is overdue.  The system will count in negative numbers when service is past due.

The first car repair service code is either A, requiring an oil change, or B, requiring and oil and filter change.  The second code will be a number, indicating one of the following:

1.      Tire rotation
2.      Air filter and cabin filter replacement, and check the drive belt
3.      Transmission Fluid
4.      Spark plug replacement, timing belt replacement (if equipped), inspect water pump and valve clearance
5.      Engine coolant replacement
6.      Differential fluid replacement

Once the auto service is complete, your technician will reset the maintenance minder system, so it can begin the calculation process again.