10-19-22

The Fall Car Care Month Tips You Need

Fall is finally here! The weather’s getting cooler, leaves are changing color, all signs that winter is not far behind. And while we may not be able to get you mentally ready for the change of the seasons, we can certainly help you prepare your car for fall and winter! Welcome to Fall Car Care Month at Midlands Honda!

 

The Quintessential Fall Car Care Month Checklist

 

Fall is the perfect time to start checking up on your car. The weather isn’t entirely too cold yet, the Holidays are still a ways off, and you aren’t facing any severe weather conditions. The autumn season is prime for getting out in the garage or bringing your car to our service centers to get everything checked out before the real test of your car’s performance comes. 

 

Now you may be asking yourself, why is it important to check up on your car before winter? Well, dealing with car problems when it’s cold out is just not a great time. And we want you to always have a good time driving your Honda. And while these tips may seem like common sense, you’d be surprised just how often these can fly under the radar and end up causing much more serious problems down the line. 

Fall Car Care Checklist

15 Tips to Prepare Your Car For Winter

 

  • Checking and Refilling Fluids: All of your fluids play a crucial role in keeping your Honda performing at its absolute best, and during the cooler months you don’t need anything less. Taking a look at your oil, power steering fluid, brake fluid, and transmission fluid and refilling or changing any that need it is a great way to prepare your car for the winter months ahead. Also, checking your antifreeze/coolant is an absolute must, as that will keep your engine from getting too cold should the temps drop.  
  • Change the Oil and Filters: While we’re on the topic of fluids, your oil is a big one that you should be up to date on. Ignoring an oil change, especially in winter is not a great idea. Old oil in your system greatly increases the risk of your engine overheating, severely damaging the engine. Check when your Honda is due for its next oil change and make sure you get the filters changed as well. That way your brand-new oil stays new for as long as possible! 
  • Test the Heating/HVAC: Yes, your AC system may seem like an afterthought when it comes to having to prepare your car for winter and Fall car care. However, your HVAC is also responsible for filtering the air, dehumidifying your windshield, and heating your car. So making sure everything there is in working order before the weather gets too cold is probably a good idea. 
  • Tighten Your Hoses: Making sure your antifreeze and fluids are all topped off is great, but it won’t do you any good if it can’t reach your engine. If your hoses have any leaks or breaks, there’s a good chance you’ll overheat your engine when the cold weather hits and your engine has to work overtime to keep it warm. Be sure to give your hoses a good look over and tighten any that seem loose. 
  • Look at Your Belts: This actually goes hand in hand with your hoses. Hot summer months can severely degrade the belts in your engine. When checking under the hood, you should look for any signs of excessive wear, fraying, cracks, or looseness. If you do notice any of these, bring your Honda over to Midlands Honda and we’ll set you up with a new belt. 
  • Test Your Exhaust: Checking your exhaust system as part of your fall car care checklist could actually save your life. If there’s a leak in your exhaust, carbon monoxide could seep into your car. Not only that, but a damaged exhaust system can also result in lower mileage. Keep on the lookout for weird noises, smells, a vibrating gas pedal, or a rumble when your car is sitting still. All are signs that your exhaust system is damaged. Our Honda-certified technicians will look for rust, holes, leaks, and other damage that may be present during our inspection. 
  • Check Your Brakes: You want to be able to stop when you need to stop right? Especially if the weather is giving you trouble, you don’t want your brakes to be something else to worry about. Bring your Honda over to Midlands Honda and our service team will make sure your brake system is in good working order. Replacing your brake pads and rotors is an essential part of your Fall car care and winter prep. 
  • Inspect All 4 Tires: The quality of your tires is just as important as that of your brakes. If your tires are worn down, they’re not going to do you much good in snow or rain. Make sure to not only check the tread but also their pressure. Tires tend to lose pressure when the temperature drops and changing a flat in 30-degree weather isn’t fun. If you really want to future-proof yourself, getting a good set of snow tires or all-season tires will be greatly beneficial. 
  • Pay Attention to Steering and Suspension: You want to be in complete control of your Honda in the event of bad weather. Making sure your power steering and suspension are up to par is the best way to remain in control at all times. If you’re worried, our team can take a look at your shock absorbers, struts, and chassis to see if anything needs adjusting or replacing.
  • Test The Battery: Bering able to rely on your battery during the winter months can be a huge weight off your shoulders. So be sure to check the charge and quality of your current battery. If it’s been more than three years, it may be time to replace the battery completely. Visit our service center and we’ll be able to set you up with a brand-new battery just in time for Winter. 
  • Replace Your Wipers: Did you know that the quality of your windshield wipers actually factors into your yearly inspection? That’s because if your wipers are leaving heavy streaks on your windshield, you will not have very good visibility. And visibility is essential in any type of winter weather.
  • Wash Your Car: This may definitely seem unnecessary, but hear us out for a second. Cleaning your car of all the summer mildew and dirt can help prepare it for what’s coming. Waxing your car can also protect it from snow, ice, and salt. Furthermore, it’s a good idea to regularly clean your car after it snows. Icemelt and salt can accumulate and erode certain components of your undercarriage if left on for extended periods of time. While not as immediately important as other tips on your Fall car care list, it won’t hurt. 
  • Clean Your Headlights: Between dead bulbs and cloudy headlight covers, there’s enough to check to warrant this being on your Fall car care list. Your headlights do two things out on the road. They help you see what’s in front of you, and they help other drivers see you. Make sure both of these functions are unimpeded by checking your bulbs and cleaning your headlight covers. 
  • Pack Roadside Kit: If the unfortunate happens and you have car issues or slide on ice or snow, having a pack of supplies to fall back on is a great idea. Some things that should be in your roadside kit include an ice scraper, jumper cables, a flashlight, blankets, bottled water, non-perishable food, and a first aid kit. You can never be too careful. 
  • Get AAA/Roadside Assistance: No Fall car care list would be complete without roadside assistance. These guys can be literal life savers and save you from having to sit out in the cold waiting on a tow company and praying that they’re open. Companies like AAA offer 24/7 support and assistance so they’re always there when you need them. 

 

Stay On Top of Your Fall Car Care

 

It may seem like a lot to keep track of, but if you follow this Fall car care checklist, you’ll be more than prepared for when the colder months roll around. And if there’s anything you need to replace or you can’t check out yourself, you can always make Midlands Honda a part of your winter car prep by scheduling an appointment with our service center in Columbia. Make sure you prepare your car for winter right with Midlands Honda!

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04-22-22

South Carolina Juneteenth Freedom Fest

We stand together against hate! Once again, Midlands Honda is proud to be a sponsor and show support for the South Carolina Juneteenth Freedom Festival in Columbia. Juneteenth, also known as Juneteenth Independence Day or Freedom Day, celebrates enslaved African Americans' emancipation throughout America. This is a day of celebration of the progress and education we’ve attained as we strive towards a world united. 

 

Join us on June 18th for a 2-day event featuring fun and excitement for the entire family, with carnival rides, games, local food trucks, and various vendors. Enjoy live musical performances from national recording artists including The Whispers, Vivian Green, Nappy Roots, Rob Base, and Dondria. You’ll also be able to shop at many Black and Minority-owned businesses, check out a job fair, and stay safe with a COVID-19 testing and vaccination center. 

 

While the main event runs for two days, the fun begins well before the 18th. For the first time, the South Carolina Juneteenth Festival will be a full 9 day event. June 13th kicks off Juneteenth at Segra Baseball Park with seminars covering everything from buying a home to financial literacy throughout the week. On the 16th, there will be a meet and greet with the SC JFF team, with a Juneteenth Gala Noir and Awards happening on Friday the 17th. The whole event will close with a Freedom Fest parade downtown on Monday the 20th. 

 

The South Carolina Juneteenth Freedom Fest has become a staple of the Columbia and Richland community, with an economic impact of over $700,000 since its inception in 2017. It has highlighted over 200 Black and Minority businesses over the past 5 years and shows no signs of stopping!

 

Midlands Honda is excited to participate in this celebration and we encourage all to attend! Last year, the event saw 20,000 attendees and we’re expecting even more this year! Buy your tickets right here and we will see you at the Charlie W Johnson Stadium at Benedict College in Columbia on June 18th and 19th! Don’t forget to stop by our space and say “Hi!” to your favorite Columbia area Honda dealer and see some of our best models as well!

 

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Pet friendly Columbia, SC

Pet friendly Columbia, SC

Columbia, the capital of South Carolina, has many pet-friendly locations, including shopping malls, parks, restaurants, hotels, and outdoor venues. Whether you are a resident or a visitor to this beautiful city, knowing the places that allow pets is a must. there, get ready. We've listed the city's pet-friendly attractions. So, without wasting time, let's get started.

Where to eat?

smallSUGAR in Colombia, SC

  • smallSUGAR:

Colombia is full of restrictions, pubs, patios, and cafes. Let's start with breakfast and brunch. If you want to bring your cute pet to breakfast, visit smallSUGAR. Order a plate of roasted sweet potato or avocado tartine and start the day.

Home Team BBQ in Colombia, SC

  • Home Team BBQ:

For barbeque lovers we have a fantastic pet-friendly BBQ area called Home Team BBQ. Enjoy grilled chicken, pork, ham, lamb, ribs, and other juicy and tasty dishes with your pets.

Sweetwaters Coffee and Tea in Colombia, SC

  • Sweetwaters Coffee& Tea:

It's dessert time! Visit Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea for heavenly desserts like chocolate croissants, cinnamon rolls, coffee, etc.

Where to shop?

Mast General Store in Colombia, SC

  • Mast Shopping Store:

If you want to go shopping with your cute little friend, head to Mast Shopping Store, one of the most popular shopping spots for visitors to Colombia. This store is full of pet games, clothes, food, and of course, colorful goodies.

Soda City Market in Colombia, SC

  • Soda City Market:

Another great option for any pet owner. In this market, we can buy handmade products, locally grown foods, handmade crafts and gifts from more than a hundred vendors.

Cottle Strawberry Farm

  • Cottle Strawberry Farm:

Check out Cottle Strawberry Farm with your furry friend and enjoy harvesting strawberries yourself.

Where to play?

Congaree National Park in Colombia, SC

  • Congaree National Park:

When it comes to outdoor activities and parks, Columbia, SC will never disappoint. You can take your pet to Congaree National Park, a 26,000 acre path full of greenery, so get some fresh air and play to your heart's content.

Riverfront Park in Colombia, SC

  • Riverfront Park:

Another park in the city of Columbia is Riverfront Park, which offers a lush green setting with a large river. You can spend your time fishing and playing with your pet in this park.

Where to stay?

Are you thinking of spending a night at a hotel with your pet in Columbia? Don’t worry! Columbia is full of pet-friendly hotels.

Graduate Colombia in Colombia, SC

  • Graduate Columbia:

You can stay at Graduate Columbia, a pet-friendly hotel with colorful rooms. All the decor and colors of this hotel were chosen on a gamecock inspired whim. Overall, it's a perfect place for all pets.

Aloft Colombia Downtown

  • Aloft Columbia Downtown:

Next, we have got Aloft Columbia Downtown. Located in Downtown Columbia, this hotel is surrounded by famous restaurants, public spots, famous places, etc. When it comes to the hotel itself, it is an ideal place for all kinds of pets. So, without thinking more make sure to book a room in this hotel with your pup or cat.

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