Hands-Free Calling in Your Honda

With the increasing numbers of accidents related to driver error from being on the phone talking and texting, it’s more critical than ever to consider a hands-free phone option. Many newer Honda models offer BlueTooth technology and streaming audio capability. Make sure you set up your family phones to be compatible in your Honda.


To find out if your car and phone is compatible, please go to Honda HandFreeLink


When you bought your Honda at Honda Mall of Georgia, your sales person talked to you about the options available. If you never set up your car, check your manual or go to the Honda HandsFreeLink for compatibility and options. Please do not hesitate calling us here at Honda Mall of Georgia with any questions, we’d be happy to walk you through the process and explain the options available to you.




For our customers who are driving older models, you have options for hands-free calling/texting. Many young drivers are inheriting the older Honda from the family, so parents should be incorporating rules about talking/texting while driving the car and setting up hands –free options. You can set up a BlueTooth headset, self-installed BlueTooth, Portable Navigation Devices—with Bluetooth, and Mobile Apps. Here are some of our picks on options. We also recommend you researching the best options, like http://www.cnet.com/.


BlueTooth Headset
The Aliph Jawbone 2. It’s super-comfortable, has excellent background-noise reduction technology, and is widely-recognized as one of the top headsets on the market. It’s also going to cost you around $165 on Amazon, but don’t worry, there are plenty of excellent options out there for under $40 like the Samsung WEP200.Self-installed BlueTooth
Parrot’s CK3100 is a popular choice with a voice-activated interface for dialing by name and a phonebook-syncing feature that imports contacts directly from your phone. Pricing around $130, and don’t forget to factor in installation costs ($49.99 at Best Buy) if you forgo the do-it-yourself.Portable Navigation Devices with Bluetooth
Garmin’s Nüvi 660 is very simple to use and has smart features like 1-touch dialing for points of interest, so if your destination has a phone number (like a restaurant), you can dial directly from the GPS unit without ever having to pick up your phone. Around $330 on Amazon, it’s pricey for a hand-free wireless device, but keep in mind you're getting a navigation unit too!

Mobile Apps
DriveSafe.ly is a mobile phone application, developed by iSpeech that reads text messages and emails aloud in real time and automatically responds without users touching their mobile phone. DriveSafe.ly utilizes iSpeech's text to speech and speech to text software as a service (SaaS) (http://www.ispeech.org/) in hopes of eliminating the danger created by the growing number of people who text while they drive. For more information or to download the life saving product please visit (http://www.DriveSafe.ly/).

Again, your focus should be on the road. It’s hard these days to not get a call or text in the car, so let’s take advantage of the fact that our hands don’t have to leave the wheel. Schools will be back in session in the coming weeks, so more drivers on the road with more distractions.

Be safe! From your friends at Honda Mall of Georgia

Keepin' Your Honda Cool In Hotlanta

It’s hot out there and we mean everywhere.

After your car sits in the sun for more than 30 minutes, it feels like a 450 degree oven. And let’s face it; you’re not interested in feeling like tonight’s dinner. Here are some simple tips on keeping your car cooler during these killer temperatures.

1.) Get window shade that covers your entire front window – Check with our parts department. Just make sure you invest in a shade that covers the window completely.

2.) Park in the shade. Find a nice tree and walk a little farther.

3.) Get your windows tinted – Having all your windows tinted will alleviate 40-50% of the heat. Check out our tinting specials at our service department.

4.) Crack the windows slightly. Doing this can help to ventilate your car instead of having steam or hot air build up in your car. The windows on your vehicle have the same effects of a green house.

5.) Tilt your sunroof, but keep the sun blocker almost closed.

6.) Window visors allow you to keep the windows open a crack. The crack will not leak during a rain storm. Check with our parts department.

7.) Sunshades are transparent shades that you can attach to your car window by a suction cup. This will block about 75% of the sun.

8.) Pour a bottle of water on the car just before getting in. It will drop the temperature of the car drastically.

9.) Invest in a car cover. This also helps with protecting your car other elements dropping onto your car. Check with our parts department.

10.) Remote start and open your windows and sunroof.

11.) If you don’t have remote and are going to load the car, get the car started with the AC blowing and get windows rolled down to circulate the air.

12.) Prevent the sun from ever hitting the sunroof glass directly by applying body color matched vinyl sticker on the exterior of your sunroof. Check with our parts department.

13.) Travel only early in the morning or later in the evening when the temperatures are cooler.

14.) When you are not driving your car and if you are at home, you should park your car in a garage. Garage parking is always better than parking on the street or your driveway because it protects your car from sun and other weather elements. Parking in a garage will keep your car cool until you are ready to leave your house.

Call us anytime for advice at 877-856-7834. We are here to help you whenever you need it. Alright, stay cool!

From your friends at Honda Mall Of Georgia

How to Get Away Without the Budget or Time

The kids are out of school, but the wallet is tight or you don’t have enough time or the vacation days saved to go somewhere far. There are great getaways for you to escape from your hectic life and have some time to relax.

From a day trip to three day excursion, take advantage of these places that are just a car ride away. At Honda Mall of Georgia, we want you to take advantage of the down time and have some fun exploring your backyard. You’ll discover uncharted territory, so you and your family can make lifetime summer memories.

Chattanooga, Tennessee, Lookout Mountain & Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia - Chattanooga TN Weekend Getaway

This railroad city of Chattanooga is Tennessee’s fourth largest and became immortalized in a popular song, “Chattanooga Choo Choo,” because of its history as a major rail center. It also was

home to the first Coca-Cola bottling plant in the world, opened in 1899 by two attorneys who paid $1.00 for the franchise rights. Those tiny hamburgers from Krystal were first fried here, and everybody’s favorite Moon Pies are made in this Southeastern city. The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga has a nice campus with a variety of entertainment offered throughout the year. A free downtown shuttle runs daily from the Tennessee Aquarium to the Chattanooga Choo Choo Holiday Inn, making stops at every block in between. You also can take historical and architectural tours of several sections of the downtown area. Lookout Mountain is the most well known of the three mountains that loom over Chattanooga. The other two—Raccoon Mountain and Signal Mountain—are northwest of the city; Lookout Mountain to the southwest extends into Georgia. The mountain is glorious during autumn, and the winding road up the 2,391-foot climb passes by some beautiful homes. The view from the top is nothing short of spectacular. Besides its well-known Civil War history, Lookout Mountain is said to be the location of the last battle of the Revolutionary War. The National Park Service has marked the spot with a historical sign. If you are heading up the mountain, make sure you stop in Chattanooga for food, drinks, and fuel. While there is a lot to do on Lookout Mountain, you won’t find a lot of places for these services. This chapter from the DayTrips series describes many fascinating, exciting, (and many free of charge) things to do, most within a two-hour drive of Nashville. Each Day Trip includes destination highlights, places to visit along the way, choice restaurants and lodging, and shopping. For more information, go to www.chattanoogafun.com.

Bad to the Bone:

Savannah's Wild Side - Savannah GA Romantic Getaway

Then let your hair down—get down-and-dirty and walk on the wild side. Savannah can be a bit sleazy, and sometimes that’s fun. Buy a pair of leather pants and find the nearest disco and dance until the sun comes up. Then soar above the city in a hot-air balloon and speed away on a Jet Ski. This slow-moving city-by-the-sea can be racy if you know where to go. Follow this script for a wild time in Savannah. This chapter is a true insiders’ guide revealing great nightlife, romantic hotels, intimate dining venues, secluded retreats, and much more. For more information, http://www.savannahvisit.com/.

Biltmore and Much More: Asheville, NC -

Asheville NC Weekend Getaway

Those who haven’t visited Asheville owe it to themselves to spend a day at the Biltmore Estate—that luxurious monument to unparalleled turn-of-the-twentieth-century opulence. The largest private home in America, it was built as a summer home for the George Vanderbilts. But don’t stop there. Asheville also offers stunning mountain scenery, clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and friendly citizens, as well as a variety of attractions to lure the naturalist, the sports enthusiast, the arts-and-crafts aficionado, the literary buff, the architectural historian, the theater lover, and the gastronome. Concentrate on one area or sample from all of them. Several years ago the city’s convention and visitors bureau inaugurated an ambitious TV ad campaign with the slogan “Asheville—It will lift your spirit.” Obviously, thousands have agreed. Rand McNally’s Places Rated Almanac consistently ranks Asheville as one of the best places to live in the United St ates among small metropolitan areas. vacations magazine has named the city one of its “10 Best” weekend getaway destinations. In the Asheville area visitors can enjoy unspoiled countryside and yet have access to elegant lodgings and delectable meals. Highlights include: the Biltmore House, winery, art deco downtown, museums, and outdoor adventures. The detailed itinerary in this chapter is a driving tour that features extensive recommendations for sightseeing attractions, recreational activities, lodging, restaurants, shopping, and more. Go to www.exploreasheville.com.

Hilton Head, South Carolina -

Hilton Head Island SC Family Vacation

The well-heeled, well-connected, and just plain choosy has been traveling to Hilton Head for years. Why? This island off the southern coast of South Carolina does a good job of balancing beach and wildlife areas with development. The result is 12 miles of white sand barrier beach, plus twenty-two golf courses, more than 300 tennis courts, fifty racquet clubs, and numerous resorts. This classy resort island, divided into public areas and plantations (resort and lodging sections) bars neon signs and protects trees. Despite the hearty development the island sports an underlying tastefulness. The blue beach umbrellas, available for rental, are lined up in orderly rows. The resorts are set back from the sands so that the buildings don’t seem to be devouring the shore. If you know where to look, you can find wildlife and nature preserves too. It’s no surprise that six of the seven South Carolina resorts that made the prestigious Conde Nast Traveler 1998 Gold List were located at Hilton Head. This chapter is one complete vacation written with families in mind. It’s loaded with exciting things to do, family-friendly places to lodge and dine, recommended side trips, local sources of information, and detailed travel directions. For more information, www.hiltonheadisland.org.

A Tropical Paradise: Little St. Simons Island -

Brunswick GA Romantic Getaway

The scenario has been contrived thousands of times: A couple is stranded on a deserted island. Except for the fiddler crabs burrowing in the sand and a gull or two soaring above the dunes, the beach is empty. Palm trees billow in the breeze, and the thick forest beyond is alive with colorful squawking birds and grazing wildlife. This postcard-like scene seems more descriptive of a Caribbean island than a tiny, romantic destination off the coast of Georgia. But such a tropical paradise awaits at Little St. Simons Island, the northernmost and most secluded of the string known as the Golden Isles. This chapter is a true insiders’ guide revealing great nightlife, romantic hotels, intimate dining venues, secluded retreats, and much more. For more information, www.littlestsimonsisland.com.

Summer is here, so make sure you take advantage of these fabulous getaways. We here at Honda Mall of Georgia think you deserve it!

Mr. Opportunity is Knocking Again!

There's never been a better time to buy a new Honda. The 2010 Summer Clearance is here! And the deals are massive! Don't let these pass you by.

From Accords to Ridgelines all 0.9% APR for 60 months, you'll find the Honda you want with unbeatable financing.



Stop by Honda Mall of Georgia today for a test drive.

Where Are You Watching the Fireworks?

Are you getting geared up for the big weekend? Looking for places to go celebrate and watch some fireworks. Here are some options in your neck of the woods (in and around Atlanta) that are worth checking out.

Your Honda can get you there safely! We here at Honda Mall of Georgia wish you a safe and happy holiday!













Fourth of July Celebrations in Atlanta - Atlanta, Georgia
From the annual Peachtree Road Race to festivities at Lenox Square Mall or the spectacular downtown celebration including live music, family fun and great fireworks at Centennial Olympic Park, there are several fun ways to enjoy Independence Day while visiting Atlanta.

Mall of Georgia Fabulous 4th - Buford, Georgia
Kick off the day with the Simon Kidgits® Club Fun Run from 11am-12pm (registration starts at 10:30am in The Village). Drop in for live music on The Village lawn from 2pm-9pm (see lineup below) followed by a fireworks spectacular and screening of Transformers on a 42' jumbo screen!
Live Music:
2-4pm: The Ron Jonsons
4:30-6:30pm: Drowning Creek Band
7-9pm: The Woody's

Fantastic Fourth Celebration - Stone Mountain Park, Georgia
The ever popular Lasershow Spectacular and a traditional fireworks display highlight this annual Independence Day event.

RiverBlast - Augusta, Georgia
The Fourth of July RiverBlast celebration activities at Riverwalk Augusta include a car show, food, games, and entertainment. The evening concludes with a spectacular fireworks display over the Savannah River.

July 4th Celebration at the Cumming Fairgrounds - Cumming, Georgia
Located about 40 miles north of Atlanta near Lake Lanier, the City of Cumming's annual celebration includes food vendors, live entertainment, activities for kids and fireworks followed by a dance contest for all ages on July 3rd and a popular Steam Engine Parade and display on July 4th.

Lake Lanier 4th of July Celebration - Lake Lanier Islands, Georgia
Enjoy splashing all day in Georgia’s largest wave pool and stay for a dazzling fireworks display at night.

July 4th Star Spangled Beach Party at Callaway Gardens - Pine Mountain, Georgia
Gates open early in the morning and the fun lasts all day at the annual Callaway Gardens Independence Day celebration including an array of outdoor activities, entertainment and a patriotic fireworks finale.

Fantastic Fourth of July on the River - Savannah, Georgia
Celebrate the Fourth of July on lively and historic River Street. The fireworks display, which begins at about 9:20 p.m. will be choreographed to music and simulcast so don't forget to take along a radio.

Six Flags Over Georgia July 4th - Austell, Georgia
This annual celebration features patriotic displays, family fun and great fireworks.

Summer Traveling - Get Your Honda in Gear

Simple Car Care Tips

This week marked the first day of summer and many of you are finalizing your 4th of July holiday plans that include some considerable car travel. It’s already hot and whether you're on the open road to enjoy some fun in the sun for a long road trip for a vacation or you are hitting the pavement for business travel, make sure you are ready to handle the wear and tear of the heat on your car. Take these five tips seriously before you hit the gas pedal.

Even if you think your car is in good shape, it's best to make some routine checks to make sure you reach your destination hassle-free.

1. Kick the tires. And then get out the tire-pressure gauge and check that your tires are inflated to the level recommended in your owner's manual. Summer heat increases the pressure in tires, so test the pressure before driving far. Don't forget to check your spare as well.

Under-inflated tires run the risk of a blowout, and overinflated ones make hydroplaning more likely in rainy weather. There's a financial payoff, too: Properly inflated tires increase your vehicle's fuel efficiency by up to 3%.
Check the tread while you're down there. Stick a penny in the tread gaps with Lincoln's head facing down -- if the head is fully visible, you need new tires.

Call Honda Mall of Georgia and bring your car in, our expert technicians will check all tires and give you a final recommendation.

2. Check the essentials. Check the oil after running the car for a few minutes. It should be at a sufficient level and appear clean on the stick. Our technicians recommend an oil change every 3,000 miles, so check your owner's manual for guidance.

Start by washing your Honda vehicle to remove dirt buildup from the winter/spring. This gives you the opportunity to inspect the paint for nicks and scrapes. Wash dirt and grime from your wheel wells to avoid rusting. Clean the windshield and check for cracks (some chips can be repaired without replacing the windshield). This is important because dirty and cracked windshields can contribute to eye fatigue, says Nicole Niemi, a spokeswoman for AAA in Chicago. Replace worn wiper blades and refill windshield washer solvent.

New windshield-wiper blades are also a good investment for summer driving, if you have not changed them in over a year or two. Thunderstorms often crop up without warning, and the previous winter's weather may have taken a toll on the blades' performance.

This is also a good time to inspect brake lights, turn signals and high beams. (There's nothing fun about driving at night with one headlight.) Don't forget to give your vehicle a good waxing, which will give it some sheen and help protect the paint.

CHECK BATTERIES: Batteries can fail at any time of the year. Although drivers tend to think they fail more often in the winter, they can also fail in the summer. A professional Honda Mall of Georgia technician can check and maintain routine battery care, like scraping away corrosion and tightening connections.

3. Make a service stop. It’s better to get a maintenance service than to wait for something to fail. Your Toyota service manual recommends a tune-up schedule and stopping by before a long trip is a good idea helps preempt any bigger problems and improves your fuel economy by 4% to 12%.
Call Honda Mall of Georgia and set up your appointment at 877-856-7834, we’ll get you safe for the road.

4. Ditch the junk in your trunk. Take out the unnecessary items and pack what you need. The more you haul, the more fuel you burn. An extra 100 pounds in your vehicle could reduce your mpg by up to 2%.

5. Prepare for the worst. You should keep an emergency kit with some necessities in your car in case you get stuck. Honda Mall of Georgia recommends the Honda 12-piece Highway Safety Kit includes jumper cables, warning triangle, spihon, mylar blanket and more.








Call our Parts Department reserve your kit - 877-786-9619.






We don't want sound like your grandma, but keep in mind that driving faster than 60 miles per hour decreases your fuel efficiency -- each 5 mph over 60 is like paying an extra 24 cents per gallon for gas. That money is better spent on a snack at the next rest stop.

Honda Mall of Georgia is here to help you stay safe in this heat. Call us anytime for advice at 877-856-7834. We are here for you!

Alright, it’s time to head out and have some fun in the sun!

All-New Honda CR-Z Sport Hybrid Coupe Makes E3 Expo Debut

The all-new 2011 Honda CR-Z sport hybrid coupe made its Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3 Expo) debut today. Evocative of many video games, the two-passenger CR-Z introduces a number of interactive features including a new three-mode drive system that allows the driver to select between Sport, Econ (Economy) and Normal driving models. The CR-Z will go on-sale later this summer.

"E3 Expo is the perfect venue to showcase the all-new CR-Z", said Steven Center, vice president of marketing operations for American Honda. "The engaging and sporty driving experience found in the CR-Z feels like something out of the latest racing video game. Gamers will feel at home behind the wheel of the CR-Z - whether it be in front of a console or on the open road."

Along with the CR-Z debut, Honda also announced that the sport hybrid coupe will appear in several video games including:

• Car Town by CIE Studios (Online, PC and Xbox Live)
• Nitto Legends 1320 by CIE Studios (Online and PC)
• Gran Turismo 5 by Sony (Sony PS3 and PSP)

Look for the 2011 Honda CR-Z in late August at Honda Mall of Georgia and for digital versions to appear next month in Car Town through Facebook and November 2nd in Gran Turismo 5.