Frequently Asked Questions

at Honda on Grand

Many of our guests from Addison, Chicago and Villa Park have questions — and our team at Honda on Grand loves answering them! Whether it’s about our new inventory, financing process or auto services that our reputable service center provides, we wanted to list out the frequently asked questions we receive from our community for your convenience. Always feel free to give us a call if you have a more specific question, but keep scrolling below to learn more about how we do things here at Honda on Grand.

Sales FAQs

New cars offer customers several advantages that pre-owned, or used, just can’t deliver. First, they have a clean history — there’s no need to run a CARFAX History Report since new cars have only traveled from the manufacturer to the dealer’s lot. Peace of mind continues with the new car warranty, which covers maintenance costs or manufacturer defects. Many used cars’ will have their original warranty expired already, or can’t be transferred to a new owner. Plus when you choose new over used, you have access to the latest and greatest technology and safety systems that competing brands can produce.

Hybrid and all-electric vehicles offer drivers many advantages over their gas-powered counterparts. You’ll first notice how environmentally friendly these models can be — some boast upwards of 40, 45 or even 50 MPGe, while all-electric models qualify as zero-emission vehicles. With all this efficiency, the earth gets a little breather while your long-term costs go down. Savings on standard engine upkeep (like oil changes) are standard, along with federal and state tax incentives (so your upfront costs are diminished as well). And to top it all off, the hybrid and all-electric vehicle battery warranties are nearly twice as long as gas-powered vehicles, so you’ll be protected from dead batteries long after you drive it home.

For the practical buyer, used cars are perfect. Since they’ve already hit their depreciation decline, many are more affordable than newer models, which means your down payment and monthly payments will be reduced upfront. It might even be easier for you to pay off your loan sooner than if you took out the same loan on a new car, and many insurance companies typically view used cars (especially older ones) as a less threatening insurance claim than new. When shopping, you’ll enjoy plenty of options since you won’t be limited to one single model year, and a few still have their warranties in date. With used, you really can’t go wrong (especially if you choose from our inventory).

It’s all about the standard. Our inventory of used models have been inspected by our technicians per our own set of standards, but in order to receive certification from the manufacturer, CPO models have their own strict guidelines that they must pass. Any vehicle can be a part of a Certified Pre-Owned program, but not all receive certification. Age and mile limits are set, along with a highly detailed engine, exterior and interior inspection. Some brands will require over 100 points to be checked, along with a test drive. With a used car, you’ll receive a quality vehicle. But with a CPO model, you’re receiving an exceptional vehicle.

Finance FAQs

Great question! The last thing we’d want for you is another trip back home if you forget a document or two. For a smooth, seamless buying or leasing process, here is our list of cards, documents and more:

1. Driver’s license
2. Social security card
3. Proof of car insurance
4. Wallet or checkbook
5. Proof of employment, residence and salary

The most common score that lenders use is the FICO® Score 8 and generally credit scores range between 300-850. A poor score is 300-569, fair is 570-669 and scores above 670 are considered good. If you’ve recently discovered that your credit score is less than stellar, we have a few quick tips on how to repair it. Always make payments on time, stay below your credit limit and refute any credit errors you find on your credit report. You may have to dispute each bureau individually, but if you’re diligent, soon you’ll see your credit improve.

Don’t be discouraged — your credit score is always fluctuating, and there are tangible steps you can take to improve it over time (like what we shared in the answer above). First ask a family member or trusted friend to be your co-signer, or reach out to our team to ask specific questions on your application denial. Focus on repairing your credit, and in the meantime, we’ll be here to help in any way that we can.

Absolutely — if you were to ask our finance experts this question they’d say the same thing, too. From extended warranties to Roadside Assistance, those optional loan add-ons can help you save on future maintenance costs and provide extra peace of mind. In case of an auto accident, GAP insurance can be helpful for those who wish to close the gap between what you own on your auto loan and what your vehicle appraises for. GAP insurance is a great option for more expensive models or if you’re financing a large amount.

Well, not only are our monthly specials on new and used models updated every month with our latest offers, but here at Honda on Grand, we price the vehicles we sell reasonably. It’s easiest to know if you’re getting a good deal if you’ve done research on the specific make and model of your choice. Check Kelley Blue Book® and other resources to ensure MSRP and value, plus use our online finance resources like the credit pre-approval form and trade-in tool and watch your bottom line improve. Here at Honda on Grand, no matter what car you choose to drive home, you’re sure to get a good deal.

Service & Parts FAQs

While it may be tempting to take your vehicle to a local mechanic, trust the certified technicians at our service center to accurately complete your model’s repair in a timely manner. We know your model inside and out (probably because we sold it to you) — thanks to regular training — and we have access to OEM parts (in case you need a replacement) and proper diagnostic equipment. We’re also knowledgeable in what’s covered under your car’s warranty, which most mechanics in the surrounding area won’t be able to honor. You have the freedom to take your vehicle to any service center you like — but we’ll always recommend ours, every time.

As always with service questions, consult your owner’s manual for specified time frames for your car’s regular maintenance and repairs. However, our technicians have learned that most vehicles on the road today require an oil change every 7,500 miles, or every six months when you bring your vehicle in for an inspection. Older models should stick to every 5,000 miles or so. With both engine and oil technology innovations over the years, the number of miles has increased between oil changes — which is good news for your wallet!

Well, yes. Generic batteries typically won’t be able to handle colder temperatures since it requires more power to initially start your vehicle’s engine on a chilly morning. The updated technology and security systems have an increased drain on your model’s battery, too, which name-brand batteries are better equipped to handle (or reduce it altogether). And finally, generic batteries won’t come with warranties certified by the manufacturer — name-brand batteries do.

Inspect your tires during changing seasons to ensure optimal performance, but the easiest way to check your tires’ health is the penny method. This DIY test can be completed from home — just grab a penny, place it between the grooves of your tires and if you see Lincoln’s head showing, it’s time for a new set. Schedule your appointment at our service center and we’ll help you find quality replacement tires.

It all depends on how often you drive and what your owner’s manual recommends. But overall, neglecting regular maintenance and inspections for your vehicle’s operating systems can cause some serious long-term damage. We recommend bringing in your vehicle for a brake inspection when your owner’s manual suggests, but it’s easiest to remember to ask for a brake inspection every time you have your tires rotated, or every six months. Those who have a stop-and-go commute should come in more often, along with more aggressive drivers.

Genuine OEM parts have been specifically designed and fitted to your exact make and model, which means they’ll operate at maximum efficiency. Sure, you could go with the generic brands for your vehicle, but OEM parts keep your car, truck or SUV true to form. Our technicians recommend purchasing genuine OEM parts for your vehicle so that you can enjoy optimal performance and peace of mind.

Can’t find your question on our list? Give us a call, contact us online or stop by our location at 300 W. Grand Avenue, Elmhurst, IL 60126 to speak to a member of our team in person. We look forward to serving our customers from Addison, Chicago and Villa Park.