Buying a new car is great, but what about used cars in Columbia? Buying a used car comes with a ton of underrated benefits that you may not even consider when you’re shopping around. Don’t worry, that’s why we’re here to show you the benefits of buying a used car in Columbia!

Benefits of Buying a Used Car

Buying a used car can help you save money in many ways. You can pay a lower price for the car and lower taxes, insurance, and registration fees. You can also avoid the huge loss of value that new cars experience in the first few years of ownership. Plus, you can get more bang for your buck by choosing a used car with more features and options that you would otherwise have to pay extra for in a new car.

Consider a Certified Used Car

Not all used cars are created equal. You want to make sure that the car you buy is in good condition and has a clean history. That's why you should buy a certified pre-owned car from Midlands Honda. We have a wide selection of certified pre-owned Honda vehicles, as well as other makes and models, that have passed a rigorous inspection and come with a warranty and roadside assistance. You can also access the vehicle history report and inspection records online or at our dealership.

Buy Used at Midlands Honda

At Midlands Honda, we are committed to providing you with the best customer service and satisfaction. Our staff is friendly and knowledgeable and will help you find the right car for your needs and budget. Our prices are competitive and our financing options are flexible. Our service center is equipped with the latest technology and tools to keep your car running smoothly. And our customers love us and refer us to their friends and family. Visit us today in Columbia and experience our used inventory for yourself!

Fall is here, and that means winter is just around the corner. If you live in South Carolina, you know that winter weather can be unpredictable and sometimes harsh. That's why it's important to prepare your car for the colder months ahead. Here are 10 tips to help you keep your car in tip-top shape this fall and winter.

1. Check Your Battery

Cold weather can reduce your battery's performance and lifespan. Make sure your battery is fully charged and clean of any corrosion. If your battery is more than three years old, consider replacing it before winter arrives.

2. Change Your Oil And Filter

Your engine needs fresh oil and a clean filter to run smoothly and efficiently. Follow your manufacturer's recommendations for the type and frequency of oil changes. You may also want to switch to a lower-viscosity oil in the winter, as it flows better in cold temperatures.

3. Replace Your Wiper Blades and Fluids

Visibility is crucial for safe driving, especially in rainy or snowy conditions. Make sure your wiper blades are in good condition and can clear your windshield effectively. You should also fill up your washer fluid reservoir with a winter-grade fluid that won't freeze.

4. Inspect Your Tires

Your tires are your car's first line of defense against slippery roads. Check your tire pressure and tread depth regularly, and adjust them as needed. You may also want to invest in a set of winter tires, which have a special rubber compound and tread pattern that provide better traction on snow and ice.

5. Test Your Heater and Defroster

Nothing is worse than driving in a cold car with foggy windows. Make sure your heater and defroster are working properly, and fix any issues before they become a problem. You should also check your coolant level and antifreeze concentration, as they affect both your engine's performance and your cabin's comfort.

6. Examine Your Brakes

Your brakes are vital for stopping safely, especially on wet or icy roads. Have your brakes inspected by a professional, and replace any worn or damaged parts. You should also check your brake fluid level and quality, and flush it if it's dirty or contaminated.

7. Clean Your Headlights and Taillights

Your lights help you see and be seen by other drivers, pedestrians, and animals. Make sure your headlights and taillights are clean and bright, and replace any burned-out bulbs. You should also adjust your headlights' aim if they are too high or low, as they can blind other drivers or reduce your visibility.

8. Wash and Wax Your Car

Your car's exterior is exposed to dirt, salt, sand, and other elements that can damage its paint and metal. Washing and waxing your car regularly can help protect it from rust and corrosion, as well as improve its appearance and resale value.

9. Stock Up On Emergency Supplies

You never know when you might encounter a breakdown or an accident on the road. It's always wise to have some emergency supplies in your car, such as a flashlight, jumper cables, flares, blankets, water, snacks, a first-aid kit, an ice scraper, a shovel, and sand or kitty litter for traction.

10. Schedule a Tune-Up

The best way to ensure your car's readiness for winter is to have it checked by a qualified mechanic. A tune-up can identify and fix any potential issues before they become costly or dangerous problems. It can also improve your car's performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions.

Schedule A Fall Car Care Check-up with Midlands Honda

By following these 10 tips, you can keep your car running smoothly and safely this fall and winter. If you want to be extra careful, you can schedule a check-up with our expert service center at Midlands Honda in Columbia! Remember to drive carefully and cautiously in bad weather, and enjoy the beauty of the season!

Hey, are you ready for some summer fun? If you own a Honda, you might be wondering what are the best accessories to make your road trips more enjoyable and comfortable. Well, we've got you covered with this list of the best Honda accessories for summer adventures!

Honda Accessories For Your Summer

Roof Rack

Whether you want to carry your bike, kayak, surfboard, or camping gear, a roof rack is a must-have for any Honda owner who loves the outdoors. You can find roof racks that fit your specific model and style on the Honda website or at your local dealer.

Sunshade

Nothing ruins a summer day like getting into a hot car that feels like an oven. A sunshade can help keep your car cool and protect your dashboard and seats from sun damage. Plus, it can add some personality to your car with different colors and designs.

Cargo Liner

A cargo liner is a protective mat that covers the floor and sides of your trunk or cargo area. It can help prevent dirt, spills, scratches, or stains from damaging your Honda's interior. A cargo liner is especially useful if you have pets, kids, or messy items in your trunk. You can easily remove and clean the cargo liner when needed.

Dash Cam

A dash cam can be a useful accessory for any driver, but especially for those who love to explore new places. A dash cam can record your journey and capture some amazing scenery and memories. It can also provide evidence in case of an accident or a traffic violation.

Grab Your Accessories At Midlands Honda

These are just some of the best Honda accessories for summer adventures that we recommend. Of course, there are many more options that you can explore and customize according to your needs and preferences. If you want to trick out your Honda this summer, visit Midlands Honda in Columbia and we'll help to set you up with the best authentic Honda accessories! The most important thing is to have fun and stay safe on the road. Happy summer!

Summer is nearly here and you know what that means. Hurricane season. While Florida usually gets the brunt of the storms, there are good chances that those strong residual winds, rains, and other terrifying weather will affect the Columbia area as well. And when that happens, it’s crucial to protect your Honda from the damage these strong storms can cause. 

Storms can cause a lot of damage, especially if you’re unprepared. Falling trees or limbs, hail, debris blown around by the strong winds, and all of this and more can pose significant risks to a car sitting out on the street unprotected. And there’s nothing worse than waking up after a crazy storm to see your car dented or windows cracked or broken as a result. While your favorite local Honda experts at Midlands Honda are here to help repair any damage, we’d rather you avoid that situation completely. So here are some things you can do to keep your Honda out of harm's way! 

How to Protect Your Car During Hurricanes and Tropical Storms

Strong storms like hurricanes or even severe thunderstorms can produce some crazy weather conditions. These can include hail the size of quarters or larger that can fall at speeds faster than 100 miles per hour, fast and strong winds sometimes reaching speeds of 74 miles per hour, and incredible amounts of heavy rain averaging around 16 inches, all resulting in flooding from storm surges, personal and property damage, and more. If you’ve left your car out on the road in the middle of a hurricane, tropical storm, or even a severe thunderstorm, there’s a good chance that your car will be on the receiving end of some crazy damage from trees, debris, water, and a lot more. We’re here to help give you some tips on how to protect your car in the event of severe weather events and future-proof yourself a bit in the process. 

Preparing Your Car For The Storm

Protecting your car from any potential damage is definitely the first thing you should be thinking about. There are a handful of things you can do to prep your car from the barrage of wind, rain, and more that is bound to come during any severe weather event. 

• Remove any crucial documents and personal items
• Lock all doors and close windows and moon/sunroofs
• Protect windows and lights with foam and duct tape
• Set your hand/emergency brake to brace your car
• Fill the gas tank
• Use a car cover or a large blanket/rug

The number one thing you want to do is secure any and all documents as well as personal items. This can include your insurance cards, registration, and any other important papers you may be keeping in your glove box. In the event of flooding, you definitely don’t want any of those papers to receive any severe water damage. Once you’ve got all you wanted to out of your car, you can begin adding layers of protection. Placing foam against the windows secured with duct tape will support your windows during intense winds. Setting your parking brake gives your car something to brace against in the event of flooding and winds. And of course, covering your car with a heavy blanket paired with a tarp will help protect against falling debris or hail. Filling your gas tank is a really good way to give yourself an out if you suddenly need to move your car or evacuate from your house or apartment. All of this, as well as anything else you come up with, will be great ways to protect your car the best you can from damage during a storm. 

Where to Park Your Car During a Storm

Knowing where to park your car during a storm can give you a huge advantage and help you avoid serious damage. It should come as no surprise that parking under a tree or next to the water is probably not the greatest idea during an intense storm. You want a place that does more to protect your car and avoid anything that may easily break off and land on said car. Places like covered parking garages are very ideal, as they provide not only nearly complete coverage on all sides but often place your car at a higher elevation which can protect your car from flooding. You definitely want to avoid basement or low-level parking areas, as those will be the first places to flood during heavy rainfall. However, any enclosed parking space will be more ideal than an open-air parking lot, so if you have a parking garage best make use of it. And even if you’re car is protected on all sides, it’s still a good idea to implement all of the layers of protection. More protection is always a good idea.  

Future-Proof Yourself

Before any serious storm, if you’re expecting the chance that your car may be damaged, it may be a good idea to take pictures of the condition of your car BEFORE the storm. Most car insurance does provide a level of natural disaster coverage. However, insurance also typically will look for any reason not to pay out that coverage. If you take pictures of the condition of your car before the storm, you have a solid baseline to compare any damage that may have taken place during the storm. And photo evidence is irrefutable in most cases. 

Driving During a Severe Storm

Obviously, it’s not a great idea to head out on the road in the middle of a hurricane or other severe weather event. However, some situations are unavoidable, like having to evacuate from your home or apartment building or driving back home and you get stuck in a storm. So if you’re going to be driving in the middle of one of the worst situations possible, be smart about it. 

The number one thing to avoid is any flooded roads or washed-out bridges. Even if you have a decent off-road vehicle that’s prepared for situations like that, you likely don’t have the necessary training or experience to come out of that unscathed. Find a new route that takes a higher road. Another road hazard to watch for is fallen objects or downed power lines. Storms can bring down a whole manner of branches, whole trees, telephone poles, and power lines that can pose a great risk to you on the road. Don’t take the risk of trying to move the branch and definitely don’t touch downed power lines as they are likely still live and extremely dangerous. Stay in your car and find a way around or a completely new route. 

The way you drive will also change depending on the situation. During low visibility and high winds and rain, it’s best to slow down as much as you can. Driving slow allows you to have more time to respond to stalled vehicles or road hazards, while also giving you more control against strong winds. 

Stay Safe During a Hurricane

Hurricanes, tropical storms, and other forms of severe weather are no joke. They’ve accounted for billions of dollars of damage and countless deaths over the years and we don’t want you to fall victim to the increasing danger these severe weather events bring with them. While these tips are not a guarantee that you’ll avoid any and all danger or damage by any means, they are certainly a good start to protecting yourself and your property. If your Honda does get damaged, you can give your favorite Honda experts at Midlands Honda a call and we'll fix you right up in no time. To learn more, visit https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes and stay safe out there! Remember, a car is replaceable, you are not.