GRANDVILLE, Mich.,––April is National Car Care Month! You might be wondering why April? This time of year marks the end of winter, or for us in Michigan, the winding down of winter weather, and the beginning of warmer weather. What happens when the warm weather comes around? More driving! Whether it's a long road trip you'll be taking, or more back-and-forth trips to sports practices and games, your car requires a little extra care before you hit the open road this spring.

We'll be posting a few blogs throughout the month to help you care for your vehicle. To kick things off, here's how to maintain your tires for National Car Care Month!

Inspect

What should you be looking for when you inspect your tires? And how often should you be inspecting them? We recommend performing a visual inspection and inflation inspection. Make it easy on yourself and perform this on a date you'll remember like the 1st, 15th, or the last day of the month. The things you should be looking for are tire bulges on the sidewall, odd or really uneven tread wear across each or all four tires, and any puncture damage (from nails, staples, etc.). See anything funny? This could put you at risk for a blow-out or a flat tire, so make sure to switch your tire for the spare and bring your tire/vehicle in as soon as possible.

Inflate

As we mentioned above, we recommend doing an inflation inspection about once a month! Because the weather changes so often in Michigan and the temperature fluctuates, the air pressure in your tires can also fluctuate. Take note of the recommended PSI for each tire in your owner's manual or on the sticker on the inside of your driver's door and check your tires with a handheld gauge. You can also bring it into our Express Service Lane to have them checked with professional equipment. Why is this necessary, though? Having under inflated tires can cause you to pay more on gas AND can cause premature wear. Having over inflated tires can cause uneven wear and put you more at risk for damage, especially at high speeds.

Rotate

Did you know regular rotations can help you save money? That's right! Each tire will wear differently depending on the location on your vehicle. By having them rotated every 5,000-8,000 miles (we recommend at every other oil change), you'll ensure each tire is getting even tread wear, which means you'll have to replace them less often. Keep in mind, it's recommended by many tire professionals to replace all four tires at once. Stay tuned for our next blog that will cover wheel alignments and suspension, which plays a good part in your tire's tread wear!

Respect 

R.E.S.P.E.C.T. what does it mean for your tires? It means staying at or above the load capacity and avoiding very fast speeds/brakes. If you're a moderate driver, you're likely treating your tires just fine. If you're a driver with a lead foot, you could be putting more wear on your tires which will lead to a tire purchase sooner than expected. You can typically find the load capacity on the tire itself, or in your owner's manual.


National Car Care Month is a great reason to schedule an appointment for an oil change, tire rotation, and multi-point inspection at RiverTown Honda. Our service technicians understand that time is money, and that your time is valuable. We do our best to get you in and out and back on the road in no time. Need more info on how to keep your vehicle in top shape this Spring? Stay tuned to our upcoming National Car Care Month blogs AND check out our Spring Car Care tips and seasonal maintenance info on our website.

Give RiverTown Honda, the #1 Honda Dealer in Michigan in 2017, a call at (877) 236-9113, or visit us at 4260 Kenowa Ave. Grandville, MI 49418, one mile west of RiverTown Mall.

GRANDVILLE, Mich.,––Easter is this coming Sunday! For many that means dressing in your Sunday best and heading to church, for some it means a fun Easter basket hunt at home, and for others it means a get together with the family for a meal. If you're headed to a relatives or hosting your family at home, you're likely on the hunt for recipes, and what better to celebrate Easter with than a big brunch. When it comes to brunch, you can one of three ways: sweet, savory, or sweet and savory. This blog is for those of you who want to avoid all the added sugar - here are 10 savory recipes for Easter brunch that your family will love. Enjoy!

1. Parmesan Baked Hash Browns 

2. Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus 

3. Overnight Eggs Benedict Casserole

4. "Perfect" Bruschetta

5. Quiche Toast Cups 

6. Caramelized Onion, Spinach, and Feta French Toast 

7. Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Cucumber Bites

8. Sheet Pan Egg-in-a-Hole

9. Mayo-free Avocado Egg Salad

10. Monte Cristo Pinwheels

Give RiverTown Honda, the #1 Honda Dealer in Michigan in 2017, a call at (877) 236-9113, or visit us at 4260 Kenowa Ave. Grandville, MI 49418, one mile west of RiverTown Mall.

GRANDVILLE, Mich.–– We know winter is still technically here and spring is just around the corner. This weather doesn't quite call for a windows-open, full-out, detailed clean but it's the perfect time for some simple organization to help get you started! Some of us can neglect keeping our cars tidy throughout the winter because of the cold weather and desire to be inside, on the couch, and bundled up. Let's be honest, some of us can neglect keeping our cars tidy all year long, because that's just how we are! We know we want to keep things in order, but life simply gets in the way. There are ways, however, to combat the excuses. We're talking organization methods. Check out some of the ideas we've put together below and get ahead on spring cleaning with these car organization tips!

1. Baskets

2. Pill Bottles

3. Cereal Container Trash Basket

4. Shoe Organizers

5. Pencil Pouches

6. Empty Altoids, Gum, and Travel Q-Tip Containers 

7. File Folders 

Give RiverTown Honda, the #1 Honda Dealer in Michigan in 2017, a call at (877) 236-9113, or visit us at 4260 Kenowa Ave. Grandville, MI 49418, one mile west of RiverTown Mall.

GRANDVILLE, Mich.,––Spring break is coming up quickly and many families might be considering taking a trip. If you have little ones and a road trip is on the docket, it's time to start getting ready. Kids can make any sort of travel complicated, but a long road trip downright hectic if you're not prepared. We've got some tips that'll help you have a fun and safe road trip with your little ones, no matter where you're going. Check out our tips for traveling with a crew below and use them on your spring break road trip.

1. Inspect Your Car

Before anything else, you'll want to make sure your vehicle is in good shape to hit the road, because the last thing you want to deal with is being stuck on the side of the road with car troubles and impatient children. Things that should be inspected before you go include your oil level, tires, wiper fluid, and of course, your gas tank level. If you bring your car into RiverTown Honda for an oil change before your trip, we'll be sure to give your vehicle a thorough inspection to help you avoid any potential mishaps! Make sure to fill up your tank before you leave as well, or as you head out of town so you don't have to deal with finding a station in a potentially unfamiliar area.

2. Stock the Car with Necessary Emergency Items

Every individual and family is different, but there are some basic items you should always have in your car should you have to deal with car troubles on the road. Extra change or money, jumper cables, a tire pump, a flashlight, a blanket, extra cell phone charger, and a first aid kit are what we consider necessary items. Other items you might want to consider bringing include extra medication, hats or sunscreen, a trash can or trash bags, extra water bottles, and whatever else you need to keep your kids comfy, healthy, and safe.

3. Bring Snacks!

What would a road trip be without some good snacks? If you've ever run into someone who gets "hangry" or hungry and angry, like a toddler for instance, you'll understand why snacks are so important! You can either stop at a gas station before heading out of town, or stock up with what you have at home. Most times, you can bring along smarter, more healthy snacks that'll keep you full by using what you have at home, as opposed to buying sugar-filled junk food items at the gas station or convenience store. See our 7 on-the-go kids snacks to get some homemade snack ideas and get inspired to create your own! Don't forget to also bring plenty of beverages to stay hydrated, but be careful to ration these items, otherwise your driver will be stopping often for bathroom breaks.

4. Prepare Entertainment

If you're taking a trip with just adults you might be able to skip this step, but with children, this step is absolutely necessary. In many newer vehicles, especially family based ones like the 2018 Honda Odyssey, entertainment is plenty with the back seat screen for movies and shows, wifi, and the group playlist feature. In older vehicles, you might have to supply the entertainment yourself. Find fun material-free road games you can play together, bring along handheld game consoles, or make road-trip ready activity bags or kits with the ideas on our Road Trip Tips Pinterest board!

5. Keep Things Organized

If you're taking a short road trip or a long road trip, do your best to keep things organized as you go. This can help you easily access emergency items when needed, not worry about cleaning up a mess when you arrive, and help you get home in a vehicle that doesn't resemble a garbage can. Keep everyone's luggage or items in the same areas, offer items like a bag for garbage or recyclables and storage solutions for small items, and carry along supplies for any spills or messes that need immediate cleaning. This will also help you avoid turning back in your seat a million times because your little ones can't find what they need!

6. Plan Fun Stops to Break Up a Long Trip

Taking a longer trip with little ones? Make sure to plan some fun stops to break up the long periods of sitting. If you're a parent, you know it's no fun to be dealing with a temper tantrum or fussiness in the confines of a car or minivan. Of course, you'll need to stop for the bathroom and meals here and there, but some extra stops along the way can help diffuse the growing crankiness. Stopping at a rest stop and taking a quick walk or playing a game of tag, as long as the weather permits, might help to get out some of that pent up energy. You could also plan for a longer trip and make some educational stops like for tourist sights, museums, etc.


We hope these tips for traveling with a crew give you all the necessary tools for a stress-free road trip and memorable spring break vacation! If you need assistance in inspecting your vehicle or with an oil change before you leave town, stop by our Express Service Lane for routine maintenance services in 90 minutes or less. You can save big just by coming to RiverTown Honda, and even more by utilizing our service coupons.

Looking for a better, more equipped, family-based vehicle? We highly recommend stopping by with the little ones to check out the 2018 Honda Odyssey and the 2018 Honda Pilot. We'll help you find the right vehicle for your family's needs and your budget. Learn more about the RiverTown Honda experience online and why we're different from other dealerships!

GRANDVILLE, Mich.–– The lurking threat of calories and unhealthy food galore can be intimidating to our waistlines and general health. While it's all good and fun to enjoy the cheese heavy appetizers, butter drenched sides, the sugar-laden dessert bombs, it's better done in moderation. Let's be honest, no one enjoys the painful belly aches and the extra bloat and weight the holiday food brings along. To keep you feeling well and your body functioning at its best throughout the holidays, we've got a few tips. Check out these different ways to stay healthy around the holidays and incorporate these tips into your regular life in the New Year to feel better!

1. Walk It Out

It's really easy to lay down on the couch with family to enjoy your favorite show or holiday movie after dinner, but you can still enjoy that quality family time in a different way. You can take advantage of the unseasonably warm weather we've been having by taking a walk after dinner. Other ways to fit some more steps in: parking farther away from your destination, taking the stairs instead of the elevator wherever you go, and frantically running around the house trying to clean before the relatives arrive.

2. Eat Before You Go

What? Eat, before you go to eat? Yes! While it seems highly counterintuitive, eating a healthy snack before you go somewhere can give you the ammo to combat that really-hungry, heavy noshing that leads to a quick stomach ache and regret. Try munching an apple on your way, so that when you arrive you're stomach will be satisfied with fiber and healthy sugars so you don't go crazy on heavy appetizers. Plus, no one likes a 'hangry' guest.

3. Veggies First

Another tip that involves eating before eating goes as follows: when you arrive to a get together where there are appetizers galore, eat the veggies first. By doing this, you'll fill up on good fiber, get in a veggie serving or two for the day, and feel better overall. Don't forget to add more veggies to your diet by filling up your dinner plate with them, too. Veggies provide the sustenance you need to last you a full dinner party or a Christmas gift return marathon without feeling like you're starving.

4. Try the 80/20 Rule

Simple, yet effective. Whether you're trying to lose weight, be healthier overall, or just trying to maintain your current figure during the holiday season, this rule will treat you well. How does it work? Eat healthy and clean 80% of the time, and use the other 20% for outings with friends, holiday parties, etc. Forget that cheat day mentality and jump on the moderation train! You can also apply this to your workout regimen. Stay active 80% of the time and inactive the other 20%. Try working out or being active each day during the week, and enjoy resting on the weekend.

5. Avoid Takeout

The holidays can be stressful for many of us, which can mean many of us turn to takeout and the couch for relaxation. Even if you think you're ordering "healthy" from the takeout menu of your favorite local restaurant, there's typically no nutritional label to tell you just what's in the food your ordered, how big the serving size is, etc. We're not saying you need to count calories, but avoiding takeout can help you be more aware of what you're putting in your body. When you cook at home you get to choose what goes into the dish and can substitute for healthier options where possible.

6. Be Mindful 

7. Set Realistic New Years Health Goals 

We hope you use these ways to stay healthy around the holidays! Regardless of your schedule this holiday season, you can use these tips to help you feel and function better overall into the New Year. If you're in need of a vehicle that functions better in the New Year, make sure to visit us in Grandville - just 12 minutes from downtown Grand Rapids - around the corner from RiverTown Crossings Mall. We've got a wide selection of safe, reliable, and affordable new Honda vehicles, as well as a Service team that's here to help you stay safe on the road regardless the vehicle you drive! You can stop by our Express Service Lane at your convenience (without an appointment) for oil changes, winter tire installations, brake inspections, and more, in under 90 minutes throughout the season. Check out our winter car care tips for more information on how to care for your vehicle in the cold West Michigan weather!

Give RiverTown Honda a call at (877) 236-9113, or visit us at 4260 Kenowa Ave. Grandville, MI 49418, one mile west of RiverTown Mall.

Visit Us Online: RiverTownHonda.com

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GRANDVILLE, Mich.––We live in West Michigan, which is a place that unfortunately experiences the worst of winter conditions. The lake effect snow and bitter cold temps can take a toll on our roads and our safety. At RiverTown Honda, we truly care about your and your vehicles well-being. Since the weather is finally here, we've got some driving tips to get you through the winter season safely. If there is any auto service you need that'll help keep you safe on the road, we'd love to help!

1. Pack Your Winter Emergency Kit

Your winter kit should definitely include an emergency kit (with first aid items) and an ice scraper. You can pack other things like extra clothing, gloves, a snow shovel, hand and foot warming packs, etc. While we never want anything bad to happen to our customers on the road, we do want them to be prepared for any situation, especially in inclement weather.

2. Properly Clear Off Your Vehicle

We understand that it might be easier to clear only the space you need on your windshield when you're in a time crunch, but properly clearing your vehicle  is necessary for your safety. When the weather is bad, your clear vision of the road is so important. This also helps avoid snow from falling onto your windshield from the roof, and from snow flying into others' windshields on the road.

3. Slow Down

This is a no-brainer, but it's worth mentioning because of the high level of importance. If it's snowing, hailing, sleeting, etc. slow down past the speed limit. Slowing down can help improve your stopping distance and allow you to focus on what's happening on the road, especially if visibility is bad.

4. Start Slow and Leave More Room to Stop

When the roads get slippery from snow and ice, it can be difficult for your vehicle to get going. Instead of stepping on the gas like you normally would at a stop sign or red light, slowly press the pedal and work your way up to the speed limit from there. Also make sure to leave more room for stopping than you normally would, as your car might not have the traction it needs on the slippery surface of the road.

5. Keep Your Lights On 

Even if it's not dark outside, your lights still serve a purpose. They allow you to see the road better, but more importantly, allow others to see you! If it's sunny outside (we wish) you probably don't need your lights, but if it's overcast, foggy, snowing, etc. keep your lights on so others know where you are and where you're headed.

6. Take Care of Routine Maintenance

7. Consider Investing in Winter Tires 

Winter tires aren't necessary, but we think they're well worth the cost for your safety! West Michigan winters can get pretty nasty, cold, and snowy. Winter tires are built to be more flexible in temperatures under 45 degrees, providing more traction on the cold roads. They're also designed to better channel slush and snow for easier driving. And not to mention, they can help a FWD vehicle perform better than an AWD vehicle with all-season tires. Check out our guide to winter tires for more information.

Our Honda and non-Honda customers are important to us, so use these driving tips to get you through the winter season safely, and come see us at RiverTown Honda for Winter Car Care services! Our team of Certified technicians will help you stay safe with tire rotations, winter tire installations, oil changes, wiper blade installations, full vehicle inspections, and more at our Service Center or Express Service Lane. Make sure to check out our Winter Car Care tips online for more information on what to do to keep your vehicle running well throughout the winter season. Remember, you're not that far from the best dealership experience of your life! We're located only 12 minutes from downtown Grand Rapids off I-196 in Grandville.

Give RiverTown Honda a call at (877) 236-9113, or visit us at 4260 Kenowa Ave. Grandville, MI 49418, one mile west of RiverTown Mall.

Visit Us Online: RiverTownHonda.com

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GRANDVILLE, Mich.––December is here already! Thanksgiving has passed us by, Black Friday is over, and the holiday season is in full swing. Even though the snow is sparse, the Christmas cheer is in the air. The Christmas parade will roll through and the tree will be lit tonight in Grandville signifying a season of love and giving. Now it's time to deck your own halls and have a little fun - tis' the season for kids Christmas crafts! Make sure to layout newspaper on your tables and have a cleanup station ready. Enjoy!

1. Yarn Wrapped Christmas Tree Ornaments

2. Shivery Snow Paint

3. Bird Seed Ornaments

4. Bow Tie Noodle Wreath

5. Coffee Filter Snowflakes

6. Pine Cone Christmas Trees

7. Clothespin Snowmen

8. Gingerbread Play Dough

9. Graham Cracker Mini Houses

10. 3D Construction Paper Reindeer

Give RiverTown Honda a call at (877) 236-9113, or visit us at 4260 Kenowa Ave. Grandville, MI 49418, one mile west of RiverTown Mall.

Visit Us Online: RiverTownHonda.com

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GRANDVILLE, Mich.,––Thanksgiving is just around the corner! Most are excited about the food that will be arriving on dinner tables on Thursday, but there are plenty of other ways to have fun and celebrate the season of gratitude. You and your little ones can make a craft together, speak about what each other are thankful for, or do a learning STEM activity. Check out these 8 fun Thanksgiving crafts and activities for kids.

1. Sponge Painted Turkey 

2. Mayflower Science Activity

3. Pumpkin Pie Thankful Spinner

4. The Gratitude Pick-Up Sticks Game

5. Paper Bag Indian Corn

6. Stuff the Turkey Game

7. Thanksgiving Turkey Picture Frame

8. Edible Pumpkin Pie Slime

Give RiverTown Honda a call at (877) 236-9113, or visit us at 4260 Kenowa Ave. Grandville, MI 49418, one mile west of RiverTown Mall.

Visit Us Online: RiverTownHonda.com

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GRANDVILLE, Mich.––October is a month for fun fall activities, cooler weather, and most importantly Breast Cancer Awareness. There are so many fun ways to show your support for breast cancer awareness including attending community and fundraising events, but donating is even easier this month. You can give back to Betty Ford Breast Care on Tuesdays this October at RiverTown Honda. All you have to do is get an oil change!



Betty Ford Breast Care Services range from mammograms to Breast Cancer diagnosis and advanced treatment. Their programs and services are accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Cancers. Only the top 5% of Breast Cancer centers have this accreditation, meaning Betty Ford at Spectrum is able to provide the most professional and comprehensive breast care for all of West Michigan!

GRANDVILLE, Mich.,––We're so lucky to live in a state where Fall is alive with color! No matter which part of the Mitten you choose to go this season, there's a peak time to view the fall colors. These peak times are estimates of when the most fall color will be present in any given region. We're here to help you get the most out of autumn and find the best views in the state! Without further ado, here are the best places to view the fall colors in Michigan and when you should go.

Where: Glen Arbor, MI 

When: October 10-14 

Where: Tawas Bay, MI
When: October 10-14

Where: Grand Haven, MI 

When: October 13-18

The stretches of beautiful freshwater beaches and the piers are reason enough alone to visit Grand Haven throughout the year. During the fall, Grand Haven has some of the most gorgeous views around. You can walk along the beach, feel a nice breeze off the lake, and enjoy the colors from the shore.

Where: Kalamazoo, MI 

When: October 18-21

Kalamazoo is home to Western Michigan, countless great places to eat, and the Kalamazoo River! While you might not think of a city as a great place to see the fall colors, they're all around K-zoo. We think you'll enjoy the lovely scenery at the Nature Center, the Kalamazoo River Valley Trail, or throughout the downtown area along the river.


If you can't make it to the locations mentioned above or are looking to head somewhere else, here's a handy guide of when your area will be the most colorful so you can go enjoy a local viewing spot.

Give RiverTown Honda a call at (877) 236-9113, or visit us at 4260 Kenowa Ave. Grandville, MI 49418, one mile west of RiverTown Mall.

Visit Us Online: RiverTownHonda.com

Follow Us on Social Media: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google +, YouTube