Honda of Stevens Creek Blog

When buying a truck, it can be easy to confuse towing capacity with the vehicle's payload. This is because the towing capacity tends to be advertised more than the payload figure. The towing capacity number tells you how many pounds it can haul while payload refers to how much weight the truck can handle.

For instance, if you hear that the truck can tow 15,000 pounds, it means that it can haul objects behind it that are up to 15,000 pounds. This is true whether the truck is connected to a hitch or directly to the bed…

If you've recently noticed a ding or scratch in your car's paint job, you might be feeling stressed. Don't worry! It's actually possible to improve the appearance of your vehicle easily. With the right tools and proper equipment, you can ensure that your vehicle's paint looks better than ever.

Make sure your vehicle's exterior is completely clean. Ensure there is no dust, dirt, or residue surrounding the affected area. Then you can carefully apply the paint over the damaged portion of the vehicle. Make sure there are no chips when you begin painting, as…

Here at Honda of Stevens Creek, we want you to know how to properly care for your vehicle and keep it looking as it did when you drove it off the showroom floor. While many have heard of the benefits of claying their vehicles, they are also reluctant to give it a try. Claying is a wonderful way to remove many blotches and stains. When done properly, claying can also help your vehicle maintain a smooth, glossy finish.

For optimal results, learn how to use a clay bar and apply it a couple of times each year. You'll be…

Whether you're looking to maximize your fuel economy with your tires or get as many miles as possible per set of tires, choosing between all-weather and summer tires can make all of the difference. Summer tires, often referred to as performance tires, are stiffer and have less rolling resistance, leading to more miles per gallon. All-weather tires have deeper grooves and can be rotated to increase their lifetime.

While all-weather tires are designed to perform well in many different conditions, summer tires excel in warm conditions and in the rain. 

When you come to our dealership, or any dealership for that matter, we want you to make your purchase based on your knowledge of the vehicle you wish to buy. We want you to make an informed decision, which is why we at Honda of Stevens Creek recommend you always read a vehicle history report on any pre-owned vehicle you hope to purchase.

Vehicle history reports are detailed reports of important information on the vehicle. It includes the following:

• Make and model of vehicle
• Body style and engine info
• Basic equipment features
• Safety options 

With there being so many ways to easily be distracted behind the wheel, you have to take a provocative approach if you want to stay safe on the roads. Follow the tips provided here by Honda of Stevens Creek to enjoy a safer and less-distracted driving experience.

Before you leave the house, spend time in front of the bathroom mirror so you won't be using the rearview mirror while you are driving. Take care of your makeup, combing your hair or beard, and applying lipstick in front of the mirror in your bathroom and then go driving. 

We want you to know how to take good care of your vehicle and also how to choose a reliable mechanic to do the things you’re not able to do yourself. Good maintenance adds years to your vehicle’s life. At Honda of Stevens Creek, we have certified mechanics to provide service for your vehicle and give you tips on preventative maintenance you can do yourself. Choosing a reliable mechanic involves some steps.

• Get recommendations from friends and family.
• Start with small jobs until you get to know them.
• Check on certifications earned by the mechanic. 

Just using these few test drive tips can make your car shopping experience informative and enjoyable. Have a general idea about the type of vehicle you need. This will save you time. Be sure to give yourself an afternoon or morning to test drive many vehicles. You don’t want to be rushed or have to leave before you are ready.

During the drive, feel how the car handles around corners and while braking. Drive in reverse and park. Sit inside while it is running and listen to it idle. Is it quiet, smooth, or knocking? 

If your car did not have belts and hoses, it could not operate. Let's dig deeper into this important subject now. Under its hood, your car features an array of belts and hoses. Belts turn on pulleys and other parts and help motivate your car. Hoses move liquids and gasses throughout your auto's systems.

Time, heat and pressure can damage your belts and hoses, so keep up with your car owner's manual-recommended maintenance schedule. Also, you can look for signs that these parts need immediate replacement. On hoses, search for remnants of leakage. 

The service staff at Honda of Stevens Creek always checks the health of your vehicle's battery whenever you bring it in for work. However, it is helpful to know how to check the vehicle on your own, particularly during weather extremes, to make sure it is operating properly. Checking your battery on your own helps prevent being unexpectedly stranded somewhere in San Jose, CA or elsewhere.

The easiest way to check the state of your battery is with a voltmeter. If possible, use a digital voltmeter, which is easier to read.