Honda of Serramonte Blog

A flat tire can slow you down from getting where you want to be, but it doesn't have to be for long if you follow these steps from Honda of Serramonte.

-Pull your vehicle off the road to a flat area that's safe.
-Remove the wheel cover from the flat tire, and loosen up the lug nuts.
-Carefully position the jack stand underneath the vehicle, and raise it up slowly.
-Remove the lug nuts all the way, and remove the flat tire from the vehicle.
 

If there is a chip in your windshield, you do not want to keep putting it off. You might feel that such a small matter is not a big deal, but it actually is. Small chips will gradually continue to spread. While they are simple to repair when they are small, the bigger a chip is the more likely it is that you will need to get your windshield in its entirety replaced.

There are kits that you can use to repair a chip to the point that you will not even notice it ever existed. In addition, you can…

As far as automotive parts go, hoses and belts don't get the attention they deserve. These nifty auto parts work constantly while you drive, keeping a wide array of vehicle components running smoothly and efficiently. Here's a brief rundown from our Honda of Serramonte service department's expert techs.

Hoses

Hoses transport coolant, heat and power. Most hoses bear the name of the vehicle component or system they act on: clutch hose, radiator hose, hydraulic hose, heater core hose and coolant hose, for example.

Hoses can last up to four years, but extreme 

 

What is the suspension system on my vehicle?
The suspension system includes the tires, the tire pressure, the shocks and all other components that connect to the wheels of a vehicle.

What does the suspension system do?
The suspension is responsible for protecting your vehicle from bumps and deformities on the road. The vehicle's suspension also provides for a smoother ride.

When should I have my suspension serviced?
Every 3,000 miles, it

If your vehicle’s headlights fail or aren’t working as well as they should, it can compromise your safety. As headlights age, they may not be as bright as they once were. This reduces what you can see within the light they cast as well as the distance the light reaches. At the end of a headlight's service life, it may even fail, going out completely. Any of these problems make it more likely that you might hit an object in your path.

The Solution is Simple

Headlight maintenance is an important part of the regular automotive service…

Tire rotations are important to maintain the tread and prevent unwanted drivetrain wear on your vehicle. When should you rotate the tires? Every 5,000 miles, it's a good idea to take your vehicle in for an inspection and tire rotation.

Proper tire rotation is key for a smooth ride. Not only do you need to rotate your tires regularly to maintain a smooth ride, but you will also save money on tires in the long run by letting them wear as evenly as possible. Tire rotation is a service that is equally as important as an oil change…

As an integral part of your car starting each day, you rely on your battery performing reliably. While it can go years without a problem, there are ways to get the most out of the battery you buy.

Keep its posts clear of corrosion, and if it's an older battery design, top it up with distilled water if its fluid evaporates due to high temperatures. If your car doesn't start one morning, it could be a faulty alternator that's the culprit, so you'll want to rule out other causes before putting the blame on the battery…

Understanding some of the basic systems of your car will make you a more informed owner, which can help to save you money when things go wrong. As your wheels spin, they also spin a metal disc. When you press your brake pedal, a caliper squeezes tightly on this disc, bringing your car to a halt. The calipers have a protective pad mounted on either side made of heat-absorbing graphite. As time goes by, this graphite wears down, producing a black dust you might see on your hubcaps. 

The headlights on your vehicle give you a clear view of what is ahead in conditions of low light. If you are having trouble seeing at night while you are driving, your headlights may need to be serviced. From changing out the bulb to cleaning up the casing, your headlights should be checked when you notice a problem.

Your headlights are part of your yearly inspection, and they must be in good working order for your car to pass inspection. If you notice that one of your lights isn't working, bring your car to Honda of Serramonte to get…

With winter behind you and a fun summer ahead, spring is an excellent time to clear off the grime on your car from salty, sandy roads and to prepare it for the warm temperatures that are coming.

Hot weather is a particularly unpleasant time to be stranded, so have your battery checked if you suspect it's starting to show its age. Check your coolant level periodically to make sure it's full. If your car is giving small warning signs, like stalling or idling roughly, take it in for servicing.