Alleviate: To make more bearable.  From the Latin: alleviare, to lighten.

Over the holidays, I received some thoughtful gifts from my clients. Of these, the little box below made its mark. My clients know I will take all the time necessary to see them through their questions, hesitations, and uncertainties; I do my best to offer genuine counsel.  After a rather extended discussion involving no small amount of uncertainty, I received this little box...along with a box of top-notch toffee and, most importantly, a warm sense of humor.

In the end, we do well only if we offer each other gifts beyond the limited and mundane transactions of life.

Rick - First, I love the car.  I mean, who wouldn’t?!?

Second, on each encounter I enjoy getting together with you.  You lay things out fairly, and accurately, and warmly, and easily.  You make what is for many people a dreaded experience, a pleasure.

Third, I love doing business with Flatirons.  Besides the general high quality of the dealership and its products, my experience yesterday was extraordinary and, I’d guess, rather rare.  How many companies with which I might make a deal would come back to me and say, the rates have gone down, and therefore so has your price?!  I don’t know how awards are doled out in your industry, but you guys certainly deserve one for both quality and integrity.

So, thanks for infusing new excitement in my life, and within my budget!

Greg

The Keyless Access Sytem is available on all 2009 models of the TL that have a Technology Package.  When you carry the keyless access remote, you can lock and unlock the doors, unlock the trunk, and start the engine without using the built-in key.

Here is the same remote with the built-in key removed:

The keyless access remote slot is located on the dashboard, to the left of the engine start/stop button.  Use the slot to store the keyless access remote when you're inside the vehicle.

To remove it, simply turn off the vehicle and pull the remote firmly from the slot.

There is a keyless access system mode switch inside the glove box (see below).  Turn the switch off to disable the keyless access system.  You will not be able to automatically unlock the doors or trunk, and you will not be able to start the engine without inserting the keyless remote into the keyless remote slot.

There is also a trunk main switch in the glove box.  When you turn it off, the valet can only lock and unlock the doors and start the car.  The glove box, trunk, and trunk pass-through will remain locked.

"Surely a test pair of redesigned TLs delivered the most enjoyable overall driving of any cars in a long time — the kind of deep satisfaction that has you looking for excuses to take the long, twisty way." MORE from USA Today

The new 2009 Acura TL is available in both Front-Wheel and All-Wheel Drive.  Both versions are also available with a Technology Package.

The Technology Package adds a range of advanced features designed to offer the driver increased connectivity to the world around them and added driving enjoyment. Keyless Access System with push-button start lets the owner enter and drive the TL without handling a remote fob or keys.

Inside, there are luxurious full-grain Perforated Milano Premium Leather seating surfaces. The new Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ and rearview camera has an 8-inch full VGA high-resolution color display positioned high in the center of the instrument panel where it's closer to the driver's line of sight and is shrouded from glare. With navigation data stored on a built-in hard disk drive (HDD) media storage device, the Navigation system boots up and operates faster than ever before-and is much more capable.

The navigation system includes AcuraLink® real-time traffic with Traffic Rerouting™ along with the new real-time weather including Doppler-style radar maps. For the ultimate in connectivity, AcuraLink® satellite communication system allows direct communication between the TL and Acura, including the ability to make automated appointments for vehicle service.

The Technology Package also features a new 3D metallic trim applied to the instrument panel and doors of the TL. Constructed via Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) technology, the trim makes use of a lightweight plastic base covered by a thin layer of textured metal film applied on the top. The trim looks and feels as if it was constructed entirely of metal, but is lighter weight, it can be easily formed to contour tight curves or odd shapes and it won't dent like metal.

The TL's renowned Acura/ELS Surround® premium audio system returns as part of the Technology Package, yet it is completely reengineered with more power from a 440-watt Digital Sound Processor amplifier, a new 10-speaker surround sound array, and a built-in 12.7 GB hard disk drive (HDD) media storage system that allows the owner to download and store up to 2,500 songs* from CDs for later playback. The Acura/ELS Surround® premium audio system offers DVD-Audio, DTS™, CD, AM/FM radio, XM® Satellite Radio, Bluetooth® Audio, and USB and auxiliary connectivity.

To Play Bluetooth Audio Files

(On models without navigation)

The 2009 Acura TSX is equipped with a Bluetooth® audio system, which allows you to listen to streaming audio from your Bluetooth audio compatible phone.  This function is only available on Bluetooth Audio Compatible phones that are paired and linked to the vehicle's Bluetooth® HandsFreeLInk® (HFL) system.

Not all Bluetooth enabled phones with streaming audio capabilities are compatible with the system.  You can find an approved phone by visiting www.acura.com/handsfreelink, or by calling the HandsFreeLink® consumer support at 1-888-528-7876.

Make sure that your phone is paired and linked to the HFL.

Press the AUX button* with the ignition switch in the ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) position.  The audio display shows the Bluetooth® Audio message and mark.  Until the phone is recognized, you will see "NO CONNECT" on the display.  This message will go off when the phone is recognized, then the system begins to play.

After a device is linked, press the TITLE button to confirm the device name.  The name of the device will appear on the audio disply.

* If an iPod, USB flash memory device or audio unit connected to the auxiliary input jack was selected a the last mode, you wil see iPod, USB, AUX in the audio display.  Push the AUX button again to play audio files from your Bluetooth® Audio phone.

To Play a USB Flash Memory Device

(On models without navigation)

The 2009 TSX audio system can operate the audio files on a USB flash memory device with the same controls used for the disc player.  To play a USB flash memory device, connect it to the USB adapter cable in the console compartment, then press the AUX button.  The ignition switch must be in the ACCESSORY (I) or ON (II) position.

The audio system reads and plays the audio files on the USB flash memory device in MP3, WMA or ACC* formats.  Depending on the format, the display shows MP3, WMA, ACC when a USB flash memory device is playing.  The USB flash memory device limit is up to 700 folders or up to 65535 files.

*The ACC format files recorded with iTunes are playable on the 2009 TSX audio unit.

The recommended USB flash memory devices are the 256 Mbyte or higher USB flash memory devices.  Some digital audio players may be compatible as well.

Some USB flash memory devices (such as devices with security lock-out features, etc.) will not work in the 2009 TSX audio unit.

To Play an iPod

The new 2009 TSX audio system can operate audio files on the iPod with the same controls used for the disc player. The iPod can be connected to the USB cable in the console by using a dock connector and pressing the AUX button in the audio controls on the dash.

NOTE: If you do not have one of the compatible iPods listed below, or if you have another brand of MP3 player, you can still play the music on your MP3 by plugging it into the AUX input jack (rather than the USB port) located in the console and pressing AUX on the audio controls.  But you will not be able to control the music selections using the TSX audio controls.  You will need to use the controls on the MP3 player.

NOTE:  The iPod will be recharged with the ignition switch in the Accessory (I) or ON (II) position.

NOTE: Using the USB port, the system will only play songs stored on the iPod with iTunes (Registered trademarks owned by Apple Inc.

Compatible iPod Models:

5G - Ver. 1.2 or more

Classic -Ver.1.0 or more

Nano - 2nd generation Ver. 1.1.2 or more

Nano - 3rd generation Ver. 1.0 or more

Touch - ver. 1.0 or more

iPhone - Ver. 1.1.1 or more

Acura will introduce the new i-DTEC clean diesel engine to the North American market in 2009. The i-DTEC engine reduces noxious exhaust emissions while boosting power and fuel efficiency. A combination of optimized combustion chamber design and reduced injection time results in a clean, quiet engine that delivers excellent performance for an enjoyable driving experience. In addition, the i-DTEC engine meets the ultra-stringent U.S. EPA Tier II Bin 5 emission standards without the on-board storage of urea.

This is Part 1 of a series of entries addressing issues and problems with HandsFree Link in your Acura.  This first entry will cover Pairing Issues.

There are two phone settings which are known to cause issues with pairing, one is the Bluetooth® set-up and the other is "Auto Answer" time.

Bluetooth set up: Bluetooth feature settings have to be turned ON. (Phone manufacturers set the default to disable Bluetooth feature to conserve battery life.)

The cell phone may provide procedures to "Temporary Power On Bluetooth" or to "Power On Bluetooth" (leaving Bluetooth on until you turn it off).

Once the Bluetooth feature in the cell phone is turned on, pair the phone to the vehicle and reconfirm phone linkage. Turn the phone off and then back on again. Make or receive a call as a test to confirm if HFL is paired successfully.

When your phone's Bluetooth power is on, your hands free accessory (eg. earpiece) can automatically reconnect to the phone when you turn on the accessory or move it within range of the phone.

"Auto Answer" time: "Auto Answer" is a setting on the cell phone, which functions with a headset.

This feature must be turned OFF or it will not allow the HFL system to accept any incoming calls.

This setting, when enabled, blocks the HFL system from picking up the call and it eventually goes to voice mail. The perception is the cell phone is not paired properly because all calls are going to voicemail.

 
2008 Acura TSX

2007 Total Value Award Winner: Acura TSX...View Resuts HERE.

How to determine your DVD version, and determine if you need a new version:

The version number is near the bottom of the DVD label. For a particular version number (like 3.30d), the map coverage typically remains the same during the entire model year - usually only the letter following the version changes (like the "d" in 3.30d), as minor software updates are made throughout the year.

For additional navigation information, see 'Navigation Update Information' on the top left under the 'Acura Quick Guide' and the 'Navigation' Category in the Category lists, also on the left.

Twenty Basic Voice Commands for your Acura

Go Home

Display map

Display menu

Display Audio screen

Display current location

Display zoom in/out

Find nearest Restaurant

Find nearest Acura dealer

Find nearest gas station

Climate Control Off/On

Temperature # degrees (#: 57-87 degrees F)

Temperature down/up

Passenger temperature # degrees

Radio on/off

Radio (90.1) FM

XM channel (112)

What time is it?

Fan speed (1-7)

Cancel

Back(ward)

Check on the left under HandsFree Link for all five tutorials I have written.

First of all, you need to acquire a cell phone that is Bluetooth capable. 

Bluetooth technology is how mobile phones, computers, and personal digital assistants (PDAs), not to mention a broad selection of other devices, can be easily interconnected using a short-range wireless connection. Using this technology, users can have all mobile and fixed computer devices be totally coordinated.

A list of compatible phones can be found at Handsfreelink.com...where you will also find instructions for pairing your phone. Run through this tutorial before you going there or beginning the pairing process. Once you have gone through this tutorial, go to Handsfreelink.com and view detailed pairing instructions for your particular phone.  At the end of this tutorial, you will see the instructions for pairing my phone (Motorazr V3t).

You must know how to find the Bluetooth 'Discovery or Search Mode.'  In this tutorial, I show how to find it on my Motorola Motorazr V3t.

Phones will vary, but will follow similar patterns.  On my phone, I start by pressing the menu button to show the screen above.  Select the 'Settings' icon.  It is in the lower right corner...already highlighted.

When you select the 'Settings' icon, you will see this screen... 

...select the 'Connections' option (highlighted above in blue).

The screen above shows two options: Bluetooth Link (now highlighted) and, to the right, USB settings.  Select Bluetooth Link.

This screen shows the three Bluetooth options. Select 'Handsfree.'

You will see any number of listings here, but you want to 'Look for Devices.' The reason there are so many listings on this screen is that I have my phone linked to a number of vehicles.

When it begins scanning for a device the following screen will appear:

When it 'discovers' a device, it will say 'Devices Found: 1.' 

Again, phones will differ, but if you followed this pathway, you should be able to follow your phone's variation of it.

Once you have become comforable with all of this, go to Handsfreelink.com.

Launch the site. Select 'Pair a Phone.' Find the instructions for your phone by Manufacturer or Wireless Carrier.  Print out the Pairing Instructions for your phone and away you go.

Here are the instructions for pairing my phone:

IMPORTANT: You must press and release the HandsFreeLink talk button on the steering wheel and wait for the beep before you speak. This step is required before all spoken commands.

Power on the phone and ensure Bluetooth® is ON. Please refer to your phone's user guide for steps to turn on Bluetooth.

Press and release the Talk button on the steering wheel and wait for the "beep" before you speak. Repeat this step before all spoken commands.

Say "phone setup"

Say "pair"

Say any 4 digit PIN code for pairing. Remember it as you will need to enter it into your phone later. HandsFreeLink will now instruct you to begin the pairing process in the phone.

Enter the main menu of the phone (as I show above).

Scroll over and enter the Settings & Tools menu.

Press 7 for Bluetooth

Press OK to begin a new search.

Press OK at the following pop up message.

Once search is complete, select device to be paired with and press PAIR.

Enter the passkey and press OK.

Name the device when asked.

Assign a priority if requested.

That's it! If you have any problems, call me.

In my ACURA QUICK GUIDE (see top left side gutter of this site), under 'Hands Free Link,' you will find a great deal of additional information. CLICK HERE to go directly to that page.

Stay tuned for the next tutorial.  I hope you found this to be helpful.  If so, please leave a comment or suggestion. 

Your Acura Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) indicator may come on in cold weather at high altitude.  Because of differences in barometric pressure in Colorado, tire pressure sensors may read four pounds light.  The indicator will probably shut off if you set your tire pressure to 36 pounds rather than 32.  See your Acura Dealer for more information on this issue.

Tire Pressure Monitors are set to alert you when the pressure is 25% under the recommended level.  To me, this means you should not neglect your tire pressure level and assume there is nothing to do unless you are alerted by the indicator.

Read what Tire Rack says: While The Tire Rack applauds the emphasis on maintaining appropriate tire pressure and requiring a system that will warn the driver if low pressure is detected, we are concerned about the percentage of underinflation that the law permits before warning the driver. The driver of a passenger car that calls for 35 psi may not be warned about tire pressure loss until it drops to between 24 to 26 psi depending on the type of monitoring system used. Under the same circumstances, a driver of a light truck that calls for 80 psi won't be warned until between 56 and 60 psi remains. In both of these cases, significant load capacity has been sacrificed before the driver is warned. The only way to overcome this obstacle would be to fit significantly oversize tires to every new vehicle that could compensate for a 30% loss in tire pressure before becoming overloaded. Unfortunately, these larger tires will add to vehicle weight, generate more rolling resistance and increase the vehicle's aerodynamic drag. This would result in a loss of fuel economy and increased gasoline consumption in direct contrast to the government's Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAF¿) requirements for cars and light trucks.

Additionally, we are concerned that the drivers of vehicles equipped with tire pressure monitoring systems will become over-confident in the capabilities of their system and will be even less likely to confirm their vehicle's cold tire pressure at least once a month with a pressure gauge.

While the legislation is well-intended, we feel that direct tire pressure monitoring systems are the better means to warn the driver of low tire pressure before inconvenience becomes calamity.

In recent years, the practice of using salvaged or used airbags has increased.  If your car is in an accident, the body shop you take it to may install a salvaged or used airbag, thus cutting down their costs.  Be sure when you discuss the repair of your vehicle that you actually verify that a new Acura airbag has been installed.  The installation and use of salvaged or used air bag system components in an Acura may compromise the intended performance of that vehicle's air bag system as there is no certainty of the history, quality, condition, or compatibility of a salvaged or used air bag system component.

RL
The 2008 Acura RL continues to be one of the most technologically advanced vehicles on the road, garnering accolades from top media outlets. For 2008 the RL's three trim packages remain available:

RL: Luxury performance sedan with 290-hp 3.5-liter VTEC® V-6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift, Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD™), fully independent suspension, 17-inch aluminum wheels and a luxurious leather-trimmed interior.

RL with Technology Package: in addition to the standard features, the package adds Acura's satellite navigation system, AcuraLink™ with real-time traffic, rearview camera, Active Front Lighting, solar-sensing automatic climate control system and upgraded wood interior trim.

RL with Technology Package plus CMBS/PAX®: package adds the Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and PAX® run-flat tires fit to special 18x8-inch aluminum alloy wheels.

New technology for the 2008 RL is:

• AcuraLink™ real-time traffic expands to 76 metropolitan areas - an increase of 32 markets

TL
The 2008 Acura TL remains strong within the midsized luxury market with its 2007-revised exterior and interior styling, an improved navigation system with AcuraLink™ satellite communication system with real-time traffic and the optional Type-S performance model. Featuring 286 horsepower from a special 3.5-liter V-6 engine, the TL Type-S is a complete performance package that includes a track-tuned suspension along with unique exterior styling and interior trim that delivers the emotional thrill of a high performance luxury sedan without sacrificing comfort and convenience.

The TL receives the following changes for 2008:

• Two new exterior colors: Polished Metal Metallic paint and Bold Beige Metallic
• Parchment added to all TL interior trim of when paired with exterior color of White Diamond Pearl or Carbon Bronze Pearl
• Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ now available in Hawaii
• AcuraLink™ real-time traffic expands to 76 metropolitan areas - an increase of 32 markets
• Updated vehicle security immobilizer system

TSX
The TSX continues to be a hot seller for Acura, winning over customers who are looking for sporty performance, a stylish exterior and the latest in technology. The TSX has been named to Car & Driver's 10Best list on multiple occasions and it continues to score well in magazine comparison tests.

For 2008 the TSX receives the following technology upgrades:

• Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ now available in Hawaii

RDX
In its first year of production, Acura's RDX 5-passenger Entry Premium SUV generated excellent reviews and strong sales. Not only does the RDX combine the immediate response of Acura's first-ever turbocharged engine and the agile control of Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD™), but the RDX also puts state-of-the-art communications, navigation and audio entertainment at the driver's fingertips. Moreover, the RDX delivers its performance minded attributes all while keeping with Acura's long-established tradition of respect for crisp, contemporary styling and simple, intuitive operation that adds to the driving experience.

The RDX receives the following upgrades for 2008:

• Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® wireless telephone interface with steering wheel mounted controls (formerly only available with Tech Package)
• Personalized settings via 8-inch Multi -Information Display (MID)
• Dual-position memory for driver's seat and mirrors
• Automatic dimming rear view mirror
• AcuraLink™ real-time traffic expands to 76 metropolitan areas - an increase of 32 markets
• Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ now works in Hawaii
• New exterior color: Polished Metal Metallic

MDX
Benchmarked against some of the best performance SUVs in the world and tuned on the world famous Nürburgring racetrack in Germany, the MDX pushes to new heights performance and sophistication in the luxury SUV segment. The MDX is fit with the largest and most powerful V-6 engine in Acura history thus giving it class-leading power and excellent fuel economy while Super Handling All-Wheel Drive™ (SH-AWD™) ensures all-weather traction coupled with exceptional steering response and cornering prowess. An Active Damper System included in the available Sport Package helps give the MDX tight chassis control in performance driving while simultaneously retaining the comfortable, quiet ride that drivers of luxury vehicles demand. And, in traditional Acura fashion, the 7-passenger MDX has industry-leading standard and available electronics that make the luxurious driver-oriented interior a comfortably connected place to reside.

MDX includes the following new features for 2008:

• Automatic dimming rear view mirror
• Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™ now available in Hawaii
• AcuraLink™ real-time traffic expands to 76 metropolitan areas - an increase of 32 markets
• New exterior paint color: Sterling Gray Metallic
• Taupe added to all MDX interior trim of when paired with exterior color of Aspen White Pearl

First, you must have a navigation system for this option.  Also, you must have a cell phone with the phone import capability.  To find out if your phone has this capability:

• Go to HandsFreeLink.com
• Launch the site
• Click on 'Find a Phone'
• Choose your vehicle model, year, and trim level
• Choose your search type: wireless carrier or device (phone) manufacturer
• Select your phone or a phone you are thinking of purchasing

You will then see a page of capabilities for that particular phone.  See image below in which I have circled in red the column that indicates (with an x in each row) that this phone does not have the capability of exporting phonebooks.

If your phone does have this capability, press the INFO button below your navigation screen.  You will then see the Information Screen:

Select Cellular Phonebook to reach the option screen below.  Notice that there are four options, three are grayed out.  Once you have a phone book imported you will go back this screen, by voice command or manually to search, delete, enter a Pin Number.  Right now, we will select 'Import Cellular Phonebook':

Oh! No! My phone is not capable of doing this.

If it was capable, the import process would automatically begin.  At the end, it will say, "The import was successful."

If you are missing a manual for your Acura, click HERE to order one.

EPA ratings for Model Year 2008 vehicles will reflect new calculations that go into effect with the 2008 model year. Consequently, new Model 2008 fuel economy estimates will be lower than Model Year 2007 estimates on the same make and model vehicle.

The new calculations reflect how Americans' driving habits have changed since 20 years ago when the EPA last updated its calculations. Today, we typically drive at higher speeds, accelerate faster, and use more air conditioning.

This does not mean the vehicle has changed-or that the manufacturer is building the vehicle with lower fuel economy. The estimates for Model Year 2008 vehicles are based on different calculations that reflect a broader range of real world factors. This was done so the estimates more closely match the fuel consumption drivers will actually experience.

Fuel economy will still vary. There is no perfect number that will reflect the differences in how and where people drive. Even with the new, lower estimates, customers' fuel economy will vary based on many factors such as where they drive, how they drive, how they maintain their vehicle, and the climate where they live.

Whatever you do, you should think about what to do before an accident happens. In all likelihood, you will want your vehicle returned to a pre-loss condition with regard to appearance, performance, durability and safety.

Generally, consumers are not aware of what a collision repair involves, the replacement parts that could be used, and the possible consequences of making an uninformed decision regarding parts or repair procedures. Most are not aware of their rights as consumers.

The new Owner Link "accident section" provides the Acura owner with a robust account of the repair process outlining, in 15 distinct and easy to read sections, exactly what is involved. Included are sections titled:

-Accident Do's and Don'ts

-Your Insurance Company and You

-Choosing The Right Body Shop

-Your Rights As a Consumer

-Why Insist on Acura Genuine Parts

-While Your Car is in The Shop

-And more...

No one likes to think about being in an auto accident. Dealing with the repair process, and other involved parties can be confusing, time consuming, and aggravating.

Check out Owner Link on the Acura Web Site and be prepared if an accident occurs.

With Owner Link®-the exclusive Acura owners' web site, you can personalize your ownership experience and obtain valuable information, accessories and services tailored to you and your Acura. Available at any time from the comfort of your home or office, Owner Link gives you access to personalized service records, factory-recommended maintenance schedules and tips for caring for your Acura. You'll also find custom links to order navigation DVD updates, purchase Acura accessories and manuals. You can even manage your OnStar® account online. Owner Link is also your source for Customer Relations contact information and details about your Total Luxury Care® benefits.

Follow the link above to get started. If you are already registered with acura.com, you can use the same username and password to log in to Owner Link.

Safe Driving to You!

Although I have set up a fairly thorough page of information that can be found on the left side gutter under "Acura Quick Guide: Hands Free Link," I wanted to summarize the basic commands that are most useful.  Always begin by pressing the TALK button and then say:

• PHONE SET-UP: This command will start you on the phone set-up process.
• CALL: You will be asked what name or number you would like to call.
• PHONEBOOK: You will be asked if you want to store, edit, delete, recieve contact, or list your phone book entries.
• NEXT PHONE: This will look for the next phone that that has been paired to the HFL.
• TRANSFER: The audio switches from the HFL to the phone.
• MUTE: This will mute or unmute your voice to the person you are talking to.
• SEND: This will allow you to send numbers or names during a call...useful when you call a menu-driven phone system.
• SYSTEM: This will ask you if you want to set-up or clear the system.  If you say CLEAR, your passcode, paired phones, all names in your HFL phonebook, and all imported phonebooks will be cleared.

For additional information, refer to my tutorials.

TORRANCE, Calif. - 08/16/2007 - The Acura RL luxury performance sedan was today awarded the highest rating given by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for side impact crash protection. The GOOD rating validates Acura's extensive efforts and commitment to vehicle safety.

According to the information released by IIHS today, their announcement shows a range of performance for various large cars in the institute's side impact crash test. IIHS reports that side impacts are the second most common fatal crash type after frontal crashes.

The latest GOOD rating in Side Impact Collision Evaluation (SICE) adds to the existing GOOD rating for IIHS' frontal offset crash test for the Acura RL. Further evidence to RL safety performance is the 5-Star rating* (the highest rating possible) in all three of the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) governmental ratings tests that include frontal and side impact crash tests, as well as a rollover rating.

About 17 years ago, I helped Gretta with the purchase of this 1990 Legend Coupe.  With only about 31,000 miles, and an engine built for 300,000 miles, it should give her many, many more years of quality transportation.  Good to see you again, Gretta!  All the best to you.

A big 'Congratulations' and 'Thank You' to Robertino & Raluca.  This was a real pleasure with a good working relationship throughout.  I wish the very best to you and your family....and may your peach harvest be prolific!  Advice: Be sure they get enough water....and, if you can, plant white clover under them.

AcuraLink provides a direct communication link between your vehicle and Acura.  Working through the XM Satelitte Radio, AcuraLink works in conjunction with your vehicle's navigation, HandsFreeLink™ (HFL), and audio systems to send and receive several kinds of messages.

These include:

• Operating tips and information on vehicle features
• Vehicle maintenance information
• Diagnostic information about any problems with your vheicle
• Important recall campaign and safety information

If you have a new message, an envelope icon appears in the top right corner of the navigation screen when you first turn the ignition switch to ON or while you are driving.  See envelope circled in red below:

To view a message from the map screen of the navigation system, press the interface dial, rotate the dial, select NEW MESSAGES, then press the dial again. 

Unread messages have a closed envelope, already read messages do not have an envelope icon.

You can set message preferences.  To do so, call Acura Client Services at: 800-382-2238.

There are six message categories in AcuraLink.  You can also access these messages through your interface dial.  Just press INFO on the right side:

When you press the INFO button, you will see the following screen:

When you select MESSAGES, you will see a screen similar to the one below.  Notice that not all the six types of information are active, some are grayed out.  Select All MESSAGES or DIAGNOSTIC INFO:

Below you see how a message will look:

The system can store up to 256 messages.

1. Quick Tips: provides you with relevant information for a safe and enjoyable ownership experience.

2. Feature Guide: During the first 90 days of ownership, when the ignition is turned on for the first time each day, one of up to 32 messages appears.  These messages help you to use and understand the technological features of your vehicle.

3.  Maintenance Minder: Provides detailed information about the service needed for your vehicle.  When a maintenance message appears on the multi-information display (MID), a list of needed maintenance items also appears in an AcuraLink message.  It then gives you choices:

• Find nearest Acura Dealer
• Call your Acura Dealer
• Stop Reading messges
• Delete message

4.  Recalls/Campaigns: If your vehicle is affected by a recall or other important safety information, a letter will be mailed to you about the issue and how to fix it.  If you don't get your Acura fixed, you will also receive a reminder message through AcuraLink.

5. Diagnostic Info: If an instrument panel light comes on, or a MID message appears, AcuraLink can identify the problem and provide you with details related to this issue.

6. Dealer Appointment Reminders: When you make an appointment through Owner Link's online scheduling service, you can be reminded about that appointment through AcuraLink up to three days in advance.

When replacing tires, people are sometimes tempted to change to a different size or construction...for a sportier look or whatever.  Acura recommends replacing tires with radial tires of the same size, load range, speed rating, and maximum cold tire pressure as shown on the original tires' sidewalls.

Using tires of a different size or construction can cause the Antilock Braking System (ABS) and Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) to work inconsistently.  Significant changes in the tire's diameter can alter the readings of the sensors these systems use.  So, before you buy tires of a different size or construction, talk with your Acura Dealer.

It is easy for you to check on your lease. You can call Honda Leasing directly @ 1 (800) 448-9307.

Press 1 for Pay Off and Title Release
Press 2 to make a payment
Press 3 for all other Billing and Payment Questions
Press 4 for end of term options or vehicle turn-in.

Have your Social Security Number and Account Number handy when you call.

Or, you can manage your account online HERE.. Look under ‘MANAGING' for Statement information, Customer Service and Payment Options, Also see the ‘ENROLL NOW' section.

To find the status of the phone being paired:

1. Press and release the Talk button.  After the beep, say "Phone Setup."  The HFL response is: "Phone setup options are status, pair, edit, delete, list."

2. Press and release the Talk button and , after the beep, say "Status."  An example of the HFL response is: "Rick's phone is linked.  Battery strength is three bars. Signal strength is  five bars, and the phone is roaming.  Returning to the main menu."