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!

Black is beautiful. Black is powerful. Black is now! These sentiments and more are just a taste of what was featured at this year’s Black Expo South in Columbia, SC. The Columbia Black Expo was created to promote and give exposure to minority-owned businesses, as well as educate, enlighten, and inspire the entire community, as well as the African American community of Columbia and South Carolina. The Black Expo extends well past Columbia, appearing in three other areas including Charleston, Upstate, and Jacksonville, Florida, all offering the same level of commitment and dedication to the black communities. 

Each Black Expo celebrates black success with vendors, speakers, guest appearances, networking, and so much more. The 23rd annual Charleston Black Expo on March 12th featured guest appearances from Anthony Anderson, Kierra Sheard, Shelton Richards, and Roi Chip Anthony. During the Columbia Black Expo that happened on May 21st, attendees also got to enjoy the same guest appearances. The event featured a Sneaker Expo where enthusiasts, collectors, and anyone could buy, sell, or trade exclusive and rare shoes. Attendees were offered the opportunity to volunteer in a blood drive, enjoy incredible food, and network with a job fair with companies including Dominion Energy, MUSC, Breakthru Beverage, and many others. However, there was also a special presentation of the Key to the City by Columbia Mayor Daniel Rickenmann and Councilman Ed McDowell to founder and president of the Thomas Media Group (Black Expo South and SC Black Pages) Darrin Todd Thomas in honor of Columbia Black Expo’s 25th Anniversary! 

Preceding the Columbia Black Expo on Friday was the Taste of Black Columbia, which saw over 970 people. The Taste of Black Columbia was an event to showcase the culinary skills from some of the best local chefs, caterers, and restaurants the midlands have to offer. The Taste beverage sponsor Breakthru Beverage provided the spirits and libations throughout the evening. The sensational neo-soul singer/songwriter Leela James performed to a standing room only crowd to bring the event to a close. 

Here at Midlands Honda, we are extremely proud to be sponsors of the 25th anniversary of the Columbia Black Expo. If you’re interested in learning more, or would like to attend the upcoming Florida Black Expo on September 22-24th, you can find all of their information here! When one of us succeeds, we all succeed!

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!

Who’s your favorite teacher from school? What about your favorite local band? Barbeque joint? Now is your chance to have your voice heard and shine a light on your favorite community members and businesses at the Columbia Neighborhood Awards! This inaugural event aims to highlight the people who make this community what it is and show our appreciation for them. We’re honoring everything and everyone from community festivals, barber shops, restaurants, and long-time businesses, to community leaders, Church pastors, attorneys, Doctors, and so much more! At Midlands Honda, we love being a strong part of what makes this community great and we are proud to sponsor the first ever Columbia Neighborhood Awards and we look forward to celebrating all of these fantastic community members and businesses on April 23rd, 2022. Head on over to the Columbia Neighborhood Awards website to lock in your votes and we’ll see you at the Columbia Museum of Art at 6pm on April 23rd! 

A huge thank you to the Columbia community and WLXC KISS 103.1 for creating and hosting this incredible community strengthening event!