Hendrick Honda SC's Blog

Special Sales Tax Deduction for Car Purchases

2009-12-21T11:59:00.001-05:00

December 31 is the deadline

Honda's meet the requirements

Excerpt from irs.gov website

Taxpayers who buy a new car or several other types of motor vehicles this year may be entitled to a special tax deduction when they file their 2009 federal tax returns next year. The tax break is part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

Here are seven things you should know about this new deduction:

1.State and local sales taxes paid on up to $49,500 of the purchase price of qualifying vehicles are deductible.

2.Qualified motor vehicles generally include new (not used) cars, light trucks, motor homes and motorcycles.

3.Purchases must occur after Feb. 16, 2009, and before Jan. 1, 2010.

4.This deduction can be taken regardless of whether or not you itemize other deductions on your tax return.

5. Taxpayers will claim this deduction when filing their 2009 federal income tax return next year.

6. The amount of the deduction is phased out for taxpayers whose modified adjusted gross income is between $125,000 and $135,000 for individual filers and between $250,000 and $260,000 for joint filers.

7. The deduction may not be taken on 2008 tax returns.

Consumers who are considering buying a new car may find that this tax incentive means there may have never been a better time to buy. Consult your tax advisor to see if you qualify

The Dealership does not provide legal, tax or accounting advice. You should consult a tax advisor to determine whether you eligible for the deduction. Nothing contained in this communication (including any attachments or links) is intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of avoiding penalties under the Internal Revenue Code.

For more information about the sales and excise tax deduction for motor vehicle purchases visit the official IRS web site at IRS.gov

2009-12-11T07:24:00.000-05:00

Donating blood could be the best gift you give this Christmas. Hendrick Honda of Easley SC will sponsor a a day of giving on Wednesday December 16th, 2009. Hendrick Employees have always been good to donate and we invite all of our friends and customers who wish to participate to come by and give the gift of life.

Give the gift of life, donate

2009-12-02T17:55:00.001-05:00

10 Best Cars

In a press release on December 1, 2009 American Honda announced that the 2010 Honda Accord and 2010 Honda Fit were included in the "10 Best Cars" award by Car and Driver Magazine The Accord has received this award 24 times in 28 years and the Fit honored each of the four years it has been for sale in the U.S.

Performance, Quality and Safety

The 10 Best Cars award gives recognition to Honda's ongoing emphasis to performance, quality and safety said John Mendel, executive VP of American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

Hendrick Honda in Easley SC is proud to offer the Accord and Fit in their full lineup of Honda vehicles.

For the full articles go to http://www.caranddriver.com/ or click on the links above

Hendrick Honda in Easley sells the most fuel efficient vehicles

2009-11-24T18:12:00.002-05:00

Honda Leads in Fuel Efficiency

Honda Motor Co. has the most fuel efficient fleet in the United States, followed closely by Hyundai Motor Co., the Environmental Protection Agency said Friday in releasing preliminary figures for 2009. According to the Detroit News, all vehicles sold in the 2009 model year are expected to average 21.1 miles per gallon in "real world" driving, which is one-tenth of a mile better than in the 2008 model year. Final 2009 figures will be released next year in October or November. The preliminary numbers are based on sales data and confidential product reports and sales estimates from the companies and usually don't vary much from the final tallies, which are based on actual sales. Honda had a fleet wide 23.6 MPG fuel economy average in the 2009 model year. Hyundai had 23.4 MPG. Toyota Motor Corp., which was tied for first in 2007, slipped to third with 23.2 MPG. Volkswagen AG was fourth at 22.3 MPG; while Nissan Motor Co. and BMW AG were tied for fifth at 21.6 MPG. The EPA reports "real world" fuel economy rankings and carbon emissions. Because of credits for building alternative fueled vehicles, real-world adjustments and testing procedures, the EPA figures are at least 25 percent lower than those on new vehicle stickers. For more on Honda’s leadership in fuel efficiency, including facts and statistics, click here.

2009-11-16T13:58:00.005-05:00

Hendrick Honda in Easley SC is proud to be a donation center for Toys for Tots. Please donate a new wrapped toy this year. The collection box is in our showroom. For those who donate, we invite you to register to win an Apple Itouch to be given away before Christmas. No purchase required. Ask the receptionist for a registration slip. For more information about the US Marines Toys for Tots go to http://www.toysfortots.org/

Hendrick employees purchased toys and delivered them before Thanksgiving

2009 Honda Civic GX visualizes a pollution-free world

2009-10-21T05:09:00.003-04:00

Diesel and gasoline vehicles have always been on the wrong side of the debate on fuel consumption and CO2 emissions from vehicles. With the threat of global climate change looming large, automakers has turned to alternate-fuel powered vehicles to meet the environmental challenges. The best result of all the research and redesigns is 2009 Honda Civic GX NGV, which runs on compressed natural gas (CNG) that emits almost zero pollution. The new Honda Civic GX is also EPA-certified as the world's cleanest internal combustion vehicle. Hendrick Honda, the leading Honda dealer in Greenville is proud to stock and sell the eco-friendly Honda Civic GX in its huge showroom that houses new and used Honda models.

The eco-friendly model from Honda helps you to reduce your carbon foot print with its lower emissions. The clean and nearly zero emission performance have earned the new Civic GX "America's greenest car" honor from American Council for Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE). The natural-gas-powered Civic GX's 1.8-Liter, 16-Valve, SOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine that delivers 113-hp gives high fuel efficiency and reduces your dependence on gasoline. Be an environmentally conscious car buyer and the Greenville Honda dealer is at your service to help you show your commitment to the environment and your budget.

The Honda dealer in Greensville is also proud to inform you that the California Air Resources Board (CARB) has certified the new Honda Civic GX as Advanced Technology Partial-Zero-Emission Vehicle (AT-PZEV). Stamp your environmental individuality by purchasing the new Honda Civic GX NGV and enjoy the HOV lane access in many states.

The all-new Honda Civic GX does not compromise on safety and interior features either. The aerodynamic exterior with new six-sided grille and the futuristic cockpit design that features a two-tier instrument panel provides a unique view of all instrumentation. A 160-watt AM/FM/CD audio system that's MP3- and Windows Media Audio (WMA)-capable will provide the perfect soundtrack for your ride. You can even fill your GX at home with the Phill refueling system. With all the virtues, the new Honda Civic GX NGV is a welcome addition to the alt-fuel segment.

Use CARS for new cars

2009-08-03T07:59:00.002-04:00

Considering trading in your vehicle? Take advantage of the CAR Allowance Rebate System (CARS), a federal program that helps the consumers buy or lease a more environmentally-friendly vehicle from dealers when they trade in a less fuel-efficient car or truck. The CARS is basically a $1 billion government program through which the consumers can get a $3,500 or $4,500 discount from the dealer when they trade in their old vehicle and buy or lease a new one. One main plus point of the program is that the consumers do not have to register anywhere or at any time for this program. Here are a few important points to keep in mind to utilize the benefits of this program.

Your vehicle must be less than 25 years old on the trade-in date
Only purchase or lease of new vehicles qualify
Generally, trade-in vehicles must get 18 or less MPG (some very large pick-up trucks and cargo vans have different requirements).
Trade-in vehicles must be registered and insured continuously for the full year preceding the trade-in
The program requires the scrapping of your eligible trade-in vehicle, and that the dealers disclose to you an estimate of the scrap value of your trade-in. The scrap value, however minimal, will be in addition to the rebate, and not in place of the rebate.
Last but not the least, the CARS program runs through November 1, 2009 or when the funds are exhausted, whichever comes first

Log on to http://www.cars.gov/ to know more. It is a program aimed at strengthening the economy, improving auto sales and put safer, cleaner and more fuel-efficient vehicles on the nation's roadways. Come take advantage of this Limited Period Offer today! Enjoy!

Cash for Clunkers

2009-06-23T11:27:00.003-04:00

President Obama will sign into law a program NHTSA is calling the Car Allowance Rebate System (CARS). This is a government program that helps you purchase a new, more fuel efficient vehicle when you trade in a less fuel efficient vehicle.

The program will begin around late July, 2009 and run till November 1, 2009. Therefore time is of essence to take advantage of this program. Details of the program can be found at http://cars.gov/

The Honda lineup with it's fuel efficient models fit this program perfectly. Start shopping now and select the Honda you want at http://www.easleyhonda.com/ and be ready to take advantage of cash for clunkers

Five important things to know about the program

1. The vehicle you are trading must be less that 25 years old on the date of the trade in
2. You must purchase or lease only a new vehicle to qualify
3. In general, your trade in must get 18 mile per gallon or less; some large pickups and cargo vans have different requirements
4. Your trade in must be registered and insured for the full year prior to trading
5. You don't need a voucher, Hendrick Honda will apply the credit at purchase

2009-06-11T18:41:00.002-04:00

Cars for less that $5000 at Hendrick Honda. Here's one for great transporation around town or that pizza delivery job this summer. Toyota Avalon. See it now Hendrick Honda in Easley SC.

2009-06-11T18:22:00.002-04:00

They're back!!! A 47% increase in pump prices over the last 6 months. What are you going to do? Well I don't suspect you can do anything about it other than use less of it. The new 2010 Honda Insight is the latest edition to the Honda lineup that helps you do just that. With mpg in the mid 40's, that's doing something about it. I've got 6 on the ground right now at Hendrick Honda in Easley. Check them out at www.easleyhonda.com

2009-06-01T18:58:00.005-04:00

On June 3, 2009 top NASCAR drivers will be racing to benefit the following military charities. Wounded Warrior Project, Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund, Operation Homefront, and Fisher House. The number 48 car driven by Jimmie Johnson is sponsored by Hendrickcars.com. This race at Eldora Speedway features other top drivers from Nationwide, IROC, Indy and other series . It will be broadcast live on HBO telecast at 7pm eastern on June 3, 2009. This pay per view event is expected to attract 1 million viewers. Watch the race on Wednesday to cheer for Jimmie Johnson and Hendrickcars.com. And after the race visit Hendrickcars.com to view all the pre-owned vehicles available.

2009-03-26T11:57:00.006-04:00

Does this make you feel comfortable about where gas prices are going? Don't get lulled to sleep thinking that gas will remain cheap. Last summer customers were dumping their guzzlers and snapping up gas savers like Civic, Accord and Civic Hybrids. Now the 2010 Honda Insight joins the Honda family of fuel saving, reliable vehicles.

At Hendrick Honda of Easley we have a great supply of Civic, Accord, Civic Hybrid and 2010 Honda Insight. Plus, Honda is running some great specials that makes them even a better value. Visit easleyhonda.com and click on the online specials tab to see details. Plan ahead now, don't get caught in a "Have To" situation.

2009-03-26T11:34:00.005-04:00

Team Lowe's Racing launches new Web site.

At Hendrick Honda in Easley SC, we are proud to be part of the Hendrick Family and associated with a name like Hendrick Motorsports.

LowesRacing.com is the official site and fan club home of Team Lowe's reacing and three-time defending champion Jimmie Johnson. The newly updated site presents fans the opportunity to sign up for a free membership to the Team Lowe's Racing fan club, giving elite access to exclusive videos, a free subscription to Track Record magazine, member-only wallpapers, special merchandise opportunities, newsletters and other exciting deals available to members only.

Log on today and see what's new

2009-03-26T11:02:00.005-04:00

The new 2010 Honda Insight is here on the ground at Hendrick Honda in Easley . As of this morning we have 3 getting ready to go through the service department for pre-delivery inspection. Come today and see the newest member of the Honda Family. The new Insight starts at a MSRP of $19,800 plus destination and any installed options. A $299 closing fee is included in the price at Hendrick Honda in Easley SC.

Boasting an estimated EPA of 40/43 mpg this is definitely designed for today's economy. I don't know about you but gas has jumped again in my neighborhood. Go online today at easleyhonda.com to see more about the 2010 insight and request a test drive.

Tony Stewart finishes first in Hendrickcars.com car

2009-02-19T10:27:00.006-05:00

Tony Stewart finished first in the season opening Camping World 300 Nationwide Series at Daytona International Speedway. This was Stewart's second consecutive win in the season opener at Daytona.

Tony Stewart's number 80 car was sponsored by Hendrickcars.com where you can find the best selection of used or certified pre-owned vehicles. Hendrickcars.com lists inventories of more that 60 Hendrick dealerships throughout the the US with over 3,500 vehicles and 70,000 photos. There's really no need to look elsewhere if you are in the market to buy a pre-owned car, truck, SUV or Van. Hendrick Honda of Easley lists close to 1,000 cars at any given time. Check out Hendrick Honda of Easley inventory of Pre-Owned vehicles at http://www.easleyhonda.com/ that gives you the Hendrick Advantage of guaranteed quality, price and a selection of up to 3500 vehicles.

2008-12-12T18:51:00.001-05:00

Survey: Honda grabs customer-retention title from Toyota
Alysha Webb Automotive NewsDecember 10, 2008 - 1:00 pm ET LOS ANGELES --Honda has overtaken Toyota as the brand that does the best job of keeping U.S. customers. A total of 64.7 percent of Honda buyers came back to the marque, according to the 2008 Customer Retention Study released today by J.D. Power and Associates. Toyota placed second, followed by its Lexus luxury division, Mercedes-Benz and BMW. "Honda's reputation for creating safe vehicles with high resale value has been instrumental in retaining owners," said Debbie Ortuno, product research and analysis manager at J.D. Power, in a statement. Five Japanese brands were among the 11 marques that ranked above the average industry score of 48 percent. Ford and General Motors' Chevrolet and Cadillac were the three U.S. brands that placed above average, as they were a year earlier. Land Rover, the U.K. unit sold by Ford Motor Co. to India's Tata Motors during the survey period, was also above average. The study measures the percentage of new vehicle buyers and lessees who replace a previously purchased vehicle with another of the same brand. It charted purchases made from November of 2007 through May of this year. Honda's score increased almost two percentage points over 2007 to 64.7 percent. Toyota's fell to 63.2 percent from 64.6 percent. Overall customer retention declined in 2008. The industry average had held steady at about 49 percent for the past five years

2008-12-09T17:40:00.003-05:00

You have a strange rattle under the hood; What is that smell?; Am I covered under warranty?; and so on and so on. Questions that usually result in a trip to the dealership and a repair bill.

What if you talk to someone without having to drive to a dealership and wait half the day while they figure out what the problem is? Hendrick Honda of Easley has the solution.

We have just added a section to out website entitled "Ask Tom" On this page you can send an email and ask what you want; anything...big or small. There's a good chance we might have an answer for you that will relieve your mind. Tom Lapointe is the "Tom" of Ask Tom. Tom is our service manager and a Master Technician with Honda. He knows that not all problems require a visit and with some guidance can often solve your problem with a smiple tip. At the same time we don't want damage to occur to your Honda, so if a visit for a diagnostic is appropriate, he'll let you know.

At Hendrick, it's about helping our customers save time and money if possible, not fleecing everyone that comes along.

What is the Red Flag Rule?

2008-11-26T13:47:00.009-05:00

Created by the U.S. Department of Treasury and the Federal Trade Commission, Section 114 of the Identity Theft Red Flags and Address Discrepancies under the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act of 2003 (FACTA) was enacted in November 2007. The legislation requires each financial institution, bank or creditor that stores consumer accounts to develop specialized identity theft prevention programs.

These policies and procedures require solutions — which must now be implemented by all specified financial institutions that can identify patterns in consumer account behavior and flag those that could be of high risk.

The Hendrick organization and Hendrick Honda of Easley were quick to roll out training and certification of employees on processes developed to detect the patterns of account behavior which might indicate fraudulent activities. Programs such as this are seen as a benefit and not a burden.

"This falls right in to what we believe as a company; that is, creating an environment that customers can trust the people they do business with" said Marcus Sanders, Red Flag coordinator for Hendrick Honda in Easley SC. He added: "Every opportunity that we have to exercise professionalism improves our customers' buying experience which in turn creates repeat and referral business"

Anyone needing more information about the Red Flag rule and how it has been implemented at Hendrick Honda of Easley may contact Marcus Sanders, Red Flag co-ordinator at 864-855-1234

THE HONDA GRADUATE PROGRAM

2008-04-11T12:16:00.004-04:00

THE HONDA GRADUATE PROGRAM... Available at Hendrick Honda Easley SC
So, you're finally graduating. Congratulations! To help make the transition from school to a career as easy - and as much fun - as possible, we'd like to suggest a truly enjoyable extracurricular activity: buying a new Honda or automobile. The Honda Graduate Programs from Honda Financial Services can help make it easier to qualify for financing, and allow you to drive away for a small down payment.

To help make your monthly payments as low as possible, we can customize the financing term to your needs. Give Yourself Some Credit Taking advantage of the Graduate Program can help you start building your credit rating, making it easier to qualify for other consumer loans and credit cards.

How To Qualify: If you will be graduating with a Masters, Bachelors, or Associates degree from an accredited college or completing a registered nursing program in the next four months, or have done so in the last two years, and you have no adverse credit history, you may qualify to purchase your vehicle through the Graduate Program. Here's what you'll need to bring.

Verifiable proof of employment and income, or a firm commitment from an employer with a start date no more than 120 days from the date of the finance contract.

1. Verifiable proof of employment and income, or a firm commitment from an employer with a start date no more than 120 days from the date of the finance contract

2. Copy of diploma or proof of eligibility

3. Valid Driver's License

4. Copy of social security card

Trade Your Clunker For This Jet?

2008-03-28T17:04:00.003-04:00

Want to trade your clunker for this?

Don't expect to find one of these on our lot but do expect to find the same level of engineering in our Honda cars and trucks. For information on the Honda Jet click the image. If you are not ready yet to trade up, go to our website to see the great selection of more modest transportation at http://www.hendrickhondasc.com/

What's my trade worth?

2008-03-28T16:40:00.006-04:00

A key element in making your purchase decision is "How much is my trade worth"? No one wants to go to a dealer to be surprised by a trade figure that is way below what they had in mind. At Hendrick Honda we believe in being up front with all the information you need to make an informed decision.

On our homepage you will find a link to the independent, well respected Black Book Online. Just click the link and complete the information. Describe your vehicle, check its options and conditions and tell us how to reach you if you want to know more. There is no commitment on your part. If you don't like the value just choose not to include your trade in the deal and sell it outright. Be sure you select the right vehicle and describe its condition accurately to get the best quality trade appraisal.

Think of how prepared you will be when you have this information provided by an independent party at your fingertips. Visit us now at http://www.hendrickhondasc.com/

XM Trial with purchase of Honda Certified Vehicle

2008-01-22T13:08:00.000-05:00

Get a free three-month trial period of XM® Radio when you purchase any Honda Certified Used Car factory-equipped with XM Satellite Radio. Hear more of what you love in music, talk, news, sports and entertainment, only on XM. And there's nothing quite like the convenience of having it in your car, so you can take it with you wherever you go. Now, customers who purchase any Honda Certified Used Car factory-equipped with XM Satellite Radio will receive a free three-month trial period. You'll get:

Over 170 digital channels
Coast-to-coast coverage
69 channels of commercial-free music
Live concerts plus exclusive original programming
The biggest names in news, talk and entertainment
The most sports play-by-play
Major league baseball. Every team. All season long.

Check out our inventory of Honda Certified Used Cars at Hendrick Honda in Easley SC.

It's not easy being Green

2008-01-15T13:58:00.000-05:00

While other automakers gripe, Honda attacks the issues of fuel economy and emissions with relish. Working independently, it is focusing on two alternative fuel technologies, the natural gas powered "Civic GX" and the hydrogen fuel cell "FCX." Honda has also taken a crack at solving a problem other automakers have left to the oil companies: creating an infrastructure for hydrogen. Honda's solution is for individual refueling stations that provide heat and electricity for the home as well as hydrogen for a fuel-cell-powered car. Long term, Honda wants to be the world's cleanest, most efficient manufacturer. It has promised to reduce CO2 emissions from its factories as well as its vehicles by 5 percent between 2005 and 2010 - on top of the 5 percent it achieved between 2000 and 2005. See "Green Living Ideas"

Internet Express Lane

2008-01-14T18:36:00.000-05:00

Are you sick of sitting in a dealership for 5-6 hours trying to complete your auto purchase? That's what many customers say is their number one dissatisfaction with the vehicle purchase process.

Hendrick Honda South Carolina is proud to offer you Internet Express Lane Service. We are dedicated to making your auto buying experience a fast, easy and pleasurable one, with Internet Express Lane Service.
With this service, you'll be able to complete the in-store appointment process within 60 minutes and work directly with a decision maker at the dealership. The vehicle you are interested in will be ready and waiting for you on the lot, and an appraiser will be ready to look at your trade-in. We will also provide you with specific numbers on your new vehicle and your trade-in rather than you having to calculate it in your head.
Internet Express Lane Service...just what you've been waiting for. Available only at Hendrick Honda, Easley SC. Contact us for more information and to sign up.

Why use the dealership service department?

2008-01-11T17:47:00.000-05:00

There seems to be a common misconception regarding dealer servicing. Many people feel that it is too expensive. There is nothing further from the truth.
After spending time researching the various options available to you the consumer, we have concluded that in the long run, this is not true. Most dealerships will perform a basic oil change service for $29.95. If they have sent a coupon, it could be significantly less. The service includes topping off all fluids and a multipoint inspection. Most dealers even include a car wash. Compare this to the $37.00-$40.00 you could spend at somewhere like Jiffy Lube without the free wash. The dealer uses factory approved parts with a nationwide warranty. What happens when the cheap filter from the independent fails and you’re on a trip? Who pays for the potential engine failure if that happens?
Another thing to remember is manufacturers like Honda reward people for loyalty. Recently we had a customer with 110,000 miles on their car. The warranty was over at 36,000. When the customer had a transmission failure and requested assistance Honda asked one question “Where do they do their service?” Upon realizing that the customer had been a loyal customer, Honda replaced their transmission at no charge. What would happen if you asked your local garage to do this?
An automobile that has had all the recommended services done is worth more in the long run. Many times you can command a higher trade in value when getting another automobile. The risk of it leaving you stranded is much lower if you follow your dealers suggestions. The dealer is not designed to sell you unnecessary services that have high profit potential. They are there to service the vehicle in the best interest of you and your car.
Highly trained technicians, factory manuals and online literature, specials tool’s designed for your car and parts with a 1 year 12,000 mile warranty should be reason enough to never go anywhere else for service. Please give Hendrick Honda a chance to earn all your business.

Tom LaPointe

Service Manager

tlapoint@hendauto.com

Hendrick Honda SC