With summer just around the corner and the nice weather already here, plenty of us are thinking about getting in the car and heading out for new destinations. It’s part of what’s great about America is being able to see so much. But the important thing is to plan accordingly. Clinton Honda has some advice for keeping your road trip fun and safe.
Planning
As much fun as it can be to hop in the car and just go, longer trips, especially multi-day tours, do require a lot of thought ahead of time. Make sure you know your route and have some thoughts on major destinations. It’s helpful to not try to pack too much into a short trip to keep things light and enjoyable.
What to Bring
Along the planning part, make sure you pack accordingly. If you’re heading international, be sure to bring at least two forms of ID and, if you’re travelling with kids, be sure to bring copies of birth certificates. Always make sure you have a map or atlas in the car. As great as GPS and smartphones are, plan for the worst and hope for the best. Finally, music and snacks! Just make sure your road food isn’t likely to distract you.
Where to Go
Hitting the highlights is always a sure bet, but make sure you take some time for out of the way places. There are plenty of websites that will guide you off the beaten path. Doing so can leave you with a bit more of a feeling that you experienced a place and not just saw it.
What to Keep in Mind
All trips benefit from planning, but there comes a point when we all need to let go and let a trip be what it is. Forcing an itinerary can often be disastrous. Be open to changing plans and seeing what there is to see. Along that line: take your time. If you rush, you may miss it all.
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If you thought that the SUV market was slowing down, think again. Worldwide, SUVs are a major source of revenue for companies like Honda. Here 
at home, Honda has even announced a complete overhaul of their plant in Ohio to boost production of the CR-V whose sales have soared over the years. What’s so appealing? Clinton Honda, your Hackettstown Area Honda dealer, wants to show you the 2015 CR-V LX.
The Muscle
The CR-V begins with a 2.4-liter, in-line four-cylinder engine. By using dual overhead cam, i-VTEC technology, and continuously variable transmission, it delivers 185 horsepower and 181 pounds of torque at the same time as an EPA-estimated 33 miles per gallon on the highway*.
The Ability
With all-wheel drive, there’s not much the CR-V can’t handle on the road, but it’s what it can do for you that makes the difference. With spacious seating for five, the CR-V also features over 70 cubic feet of cargo. Not only can the CR-V handle a substantial payload, it can also handle 1,500 pounds in towing capacity.
The Safety
In terms of safety and control, the CR-V starts with four-wheel, anti-lock, ventilated disc brakes managed through a brake assist system to help you stop faster. Electronic traction and stability are always on guard to create maximum traction and dual stage airbags in the front minimize injury in the event of a crash.
The Extras
The CR-V features cruise control, power windows, remote locks, anti-theft protection, and a four-speaker audio system with AM/FM/CD/MP3 playback, USB 2.0 input, and Bluetooth connectivity for streaming and hands-free calling.
*27 city/34 hwy/29 combined mpg rating for 2WD. 26 city/33 highway/28 combined mpg rating for AWD models. Based on 2015 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.
If you’re one of those people who isn’t eager to get behind the wheel, you’re not alone. Thousands of people have some form of anxiety about driving. For most, it surrounds the idea of what could happen and trying to deal with other drivers. If this sounds like you, Clinton Honda, your Phillipsburg Area Honda dealer, has a few tips for you.
Timing
One of the major components to driving anxiety is other drivers. It may seem obvious, but one of the first things you can do is to avoid peak travel times for others. Leaving earlier or later than most can make your entire trip a lot less stressful.
Preparation
Similar to timing, many people get stressed when they’re going somewhere new or to a place like a city they don’t usually drive in. One of the best ways to combat this is extensive preparation in terms of directions, construction delays, even weather reports can decrease stress. While a GPS can solve a lot of this, having a voice dictating directions may not be the answer.
Authority in the Car
If you’re the type who gets anxious with other people in the car, be sure to take control of your vehicle as long as you’re behind the wheel. Take the time you need to adjust everything to your liking and, if excess noise or distractions set you on edge, ask your passengers to help you out and refrain from too much chatter or music.
Exercises to Try
Along the way, remember to breathe deeply if you find yourself getting tense. Pull off if necessary and roll your shoulders and neck to relieve some of the tension. Finally, try to imagine your trip one step at a time instead of thinking about the entirety all at once.
As we get farther and farther into 2015, it’s only a matter of time before the next year models will be here. That means there’s great value in the last of
the 2014s. As luck would have it, Clinton Honda, your Bridgewater Area Honda dealer, has three great 2014 models priced just for you.
2014 Accord Coupe EX-L
The Accord Coupe EX-L features an impressive 3.5-liter V6 engine with six-speed automatic transmission with manual sport mode. At 278 horsepower and 252 pounds of torque, you can also get an EPA-estimated 32 miles per gallon on the highway*. Dual stage front airbags minimize injury in a crash and work with a forward collision mitigation system. Inside, leather seats, cruise control, and seven-speaker audio system with subwoofer keeps things comfortable.
2014 Crosstour EX-L
Originally a version of the Accord, the Crosstour took on a life of its own. A 3.5-liter V6 engine uses i-VTEC technology to give you versatility as well as 28 miles per gallon on the highway. Four-wheel, anti-lock disc brakes are managed by a brake assist system to make stopping easier and faster. Meanwhile, heated seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and Bluetooth connectivity for streaming and hands-free calling complement the ride.
2014 Odyssey LX
If you need something a bit more family-friendly, try the 3.5-liter V6 Odyssey. With spacious seating for seven, the Odyssey also offers over 148 cubic feet of cargo space with fold flat seats. With 248 horsepower and 250 pounds of torque, you can tow as much as 3,500 pounds at the same time as you ensure safety with a comprehensive airbag system.
*Based on 2014 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.
The Honda Civic is one of the best-selling vehicles of all time. All over the world, it’s synonymous with reliability and plain, old ability. After some 
critics panned the 2012 redesign, the folks at Honda decided to give the Civic its sporty edge. Honda Flemington wants to tell you all about it.
The What
Not too long ago, at the New York auto show, Honda unveiled the first look at a new, much sportier version of the old standby. After decades of proving itself, this new redesign will feature, among other changes, improved handling and Honda’s first VTEC turbo engine.
The Why
The Civic gained for Hona a lot of credibility early on. In fact, many argue that the Civic was the car that made Honda a real player in the American market. But in 2012, when Honda decided to overhaul one of its flagships in favor of economy and price, many writers for the automotive press were underwhelmed. The general feeling followed the Civic through the 2013, 2014, and 2015 model years, so Honda’s decided that now is the time to strike.
The Result
Later this year, you’ll start to see the new model in showrooms. The new engine will be only one remodel, though. The 2016 Civic will also feature a longer hood and wheelbase, 20-inch wheels, and LEDs for the headlamps. Beyond just the Civic, this marks Honda’s desire to get back into the game and mix it up with a sportier, better performing model in the compact market. It’s likely, though, that it also marks the beginning of a series of changes, redesigning some and nixing others altogether.
In the world of motor vehicles, there’s no shortage of options. Every automaker in the world seems to have at least one offering. So how do you know
what’s best for you and your family? The first thing to look at is safety followed by versatility and finally comfort. Luckily, the 2015 Pilot EX-L from Clinton Honda gets home runs on every category.
Safety
The Pilot begins where the rubber meets the road. Four-wheel drive gives you the advantage no matter what the road conditions are. Four-wheel, anti-lock disc brakes are also managed by a brake force distribution system for faster stopping and less slip. Add to that electronic traction and stability control for slick spots and continuous contact. Inside, dual-stage airbags in the front minimize injury in the event of a crash and work with side and curtain airbags to protect the entire cabin.
Versatility
With a 3.5-liter V6 engine, the Pilot puts out a massive amount of power on all four wheels. Thanks to an ultra-efficient automatic transmission, you get 250 horsepower and 253 pounds of torque at the same time as you get an EPA-estimated 24 miles per gallon on the highway*. That means you can handle 4,500 pounds in towing capacity and over 1,600 pounds in payload in the 87 cubic feet of interior cargo volume.
Comfort
Inside, the Pilot EX-L features heated seats, a seven-speaker audio system, dual-zone automatic climate control, cruise, leather appointments, and Bluetooth connectivity for streaming and hands-free calling.
*Based on 2015 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.
Your Bridgewater Area Honda Dealer Goes Over Some Ways You Can Tell If Your Vehicle Needs a Tune Up
Every vehicle, no matter what the age or style, will need to have a tune-up from time to time. Older vehicles will typically need to have them done more often. The trick is getting it done before it’s too late. Your Bridgewater area Honda dealer goes over some ways you can tell if your vehicle needs a tune up.
Car Stalls
If your car is stalling, that is a surefire sign that a tune up is needed. There are quite a few reasons that this could be happening, and it would be in your best interest to have a mechanic take a look at your car and give you a diagnosis. A common reason why this may be happening is because of the spark plugs. They could be worn out, or they may just need to be adjusted. Take notice to when your vehicle is mostly stalling, such as in cold or hot temperatures or when you turn the air conditioner on.
Car Is Hard To Start
If your car is hard to start, this could be for a number of different reasons, all of which require servicing. It could be due to a weak battery, the fuel system, the ignition system, or even some type of electrical issue. If you’re having trouble starting your car, the only way to really tell what is causing it is to take it to be checked out.
Your windshield is a very important part of your vehicle for obvious reasons. Good windshield wipers are needed in order for you to see clearly while driving, whether you use them to battle the rain or clear away dirt and grime. Keep your windshield clean with these tips from your Hackettstown area Honda dealer.
Wiper Blades
Your wiper blades should typically be changed twice a year. The best times of the year to do this are after a hot summer and before a rainy season. You can usually tell that you need new wiper blades when they start making a mess out of your windshield when you use them instead of cleaning it. In some cases you might be able to get away with just replacing the rubber wiper inserts, which are less expensive than the metal blades that the inserts fit into. If you like to do this type of stuff yourself, make sure that you know the correct type and size of the blades that you need, and that you know how to properly insert them.
Washer Fluid
Always make sure that you windshield washer fluid container is full. This is located under the hood. You can buy special windshield washer fluid from the store, or you can even use regular glass cleaner. If you buy it from the store make sure that it doesn’t need to be mixed with water before you use it. Don’t ever try to use anything like detergent or dish soap. That will not only make a soapy mess on your windshield, but it could clog up your lines.
No matter what the reason is, getting into a car that won’t start when you turn the key is never a good feeling, especially when your mind is left to wander through all of the possibilities of why. Learn about some of the reasons why your Clinton Honda may not be starting.
Battery
Perhaps the most common reason why a car won’t start is due to a dead or faulty battery. You can usually tell that it is the battery when you turn the key and there is silence or a clicking noise. You will then need to check the cable connections in the battery terminal. Look for any signs of corrosion. Sometimes the battery may just be dead altogether. This could be because you left a light or something on in your car, or it could be because the battery is just old and needs to be replaced.
Fuel Supply or Spark Plugs
Other common reasons why your car may not start could be due to an issue with the fuel supply or the spark plugs. You can usually tell that this is the issue when your car cranks over but won’t actually start. You should then check the fuel supply to your engine, and check that there is an electrical spark getting to your spark plugs.
Carburetor or Fuel Injection
If you can actually get your engine to start but then it dies, you may have an issue with the carburetor or the fuel injection, depending on which one your car has. This is also possible for cars that won’t start on cold mornings. You may be able to check the carburetor yourself, but if it is an issue with the fuel injection you will need professional help.
The 2015 Honda Pilot from Your Phillipsburg Area Honda Dealer Has an Awesome Style of its Own
The Honda Pilot is a large and powerful 8 passenger crossover SUV. What is great about this vehicle is that it gives you a car-like driving experience with a smooth ride and great 
handling. It’s highly durable and functional. This vehicle is different because it has a unique style to it that really doesn’t compare to others in its class. The 2015 Honda Pilot from your Phillipsburg area Honda dealer has an awesome style of its own.
A Look at the Outside
The outside of the 2015 Honda Pilot has 18” x 7.5” front and rear alloy wheels, and 235/60-18 front and rear all-season tires. The front and rear bumpers are body-colored, and the driver and passenger power door mirrors are body-colored and heated. There are halogen headlights that have complex surface lenses, headlight control, dusk sensor, fog lights, and intermittent windshield wipers.
A Look at the Inside
The interior of the 2015 Honda Pilot has alloy-look trim and cloth upholstery. The driver has a powered bucket seat. The front passenger has a bucket seat, and the rear passengers have split-folding seats with manual recline and fore/aft. The third row passengers have a split-folding bench that folds flat to the floor. It has seating for three.
- AM/FM radio and CD player
- Color screen
- Steering wheel audio controls
- Seven speakers subwoofer
- Element antenna
- Cruise control
- Rear camera parking distance sensors
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