Acura of Pleasanton Blog

January 10, 2012

Press conference at the Detroit Auto Show on New Concept Vehicles
Head of Acura Design Studio, Jon Ikeda, unveils Concept Vehicles at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

2013 Acura ILX


2013 Acura NSX


2013 RDX Prototype

Video gaming fan of Gran Turismo 5?
Check out the NSX in it!


What do you think of the New Prototypes?
  • Posted by noreply@blogger.com (Acura of Pleasanton) at 4:20 PM
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January 5, 2012

How To: Read a Tire Sidewall

There?s probably a lot more information on a tire?s sidewall than you?re aware of, such as where the tire was made and when, and sometimes even whether your tire complies with pass-by noise regulations in Europe.

Here?s how to decode it all:


1.) 245: The numbers preceding the slash indicate the distance, in millimeters, across the widest point of the tire?called section width (245mm, or 9.65 inches, in this case)?when mounted on a wheel of specified width. Often listed before this number are letters that loosely signify the kind of duty for which the tire was designed: ?P? stands for ?p-metric? and is generally used on passenger cars, ?LT? indicates light-truck duty, and ?T? is for a temporary spare.

2.) 40: This two-digit number is the aspect ratio, or profile, of the sidewall. This tire?s sidewall height is 40 percent of the tire?s width, which equates to 98mm, or 3.86 inches. The lower the number, the shorter the sidewall. An exception is Michelin PAX tires, where this number signifies the overall diameter of the tire in millimeters.

3.) R: This letter indicates radial tire construction; nearly all tires sold today are of this variety. Other constructions are ?D? for bias-ply tires and ?B? for belted. A preceding ?Z? is simply a reference to an outdated and vague speed rating of more than 240 km/h, or 149 mph (the specific rating can be found in the service description).

4.) 18: This number indicates the diameter of the wheel on which the tire should be mounted, generally in inches. These are usually whole numbers but can also be half-inch increments, such as ?16.5,? or in millimeters, as in ?390.?

5.) SERVICE DESCRIPTION: These numbers and letter together are called the service description. The numbers indicate the tire?s maximum ?load? rating, or the amount of weight the tire can bear (?93? stands for 650 kilograms, or 1433 pounds), and the letter denotes the speed rating, or how fast the tires can safely rotate (?W? means 270 km/h, or 168 mph). The lowest rating typically found on passenger-car tires is ?Q,? which means 99 mph. The highest, ?Y,? is good for 186 mph, and when enclosed in parenthesis, as in ?(93Y),? it means ?in excess of? 186 mph. These values are determined by tire-testing machines in a lab, and the decoded load rating is also listed elsewhere on the tire.

6.) RED DOT: Here?s a long-held myth that can be put to rest: It doesn?t help in the balancing process to align the ?heavy spot? of a tire?often indicated with a red dot?with a wheel?s valve stem when mounting. Aluminum wheels are now the norm, and the valve stem is no longer the de facto lightest point.

7.) 200: The tread-wear grade is a relative figure based on the rate of wear of a tire during a 7200-mile on-vehicle test compared with that of a reference tire. The higher the number, the longer it will likely last. ?300? indicates that the tire should last three times longer than the Uniroyal reference tire, which scores 100.

8.) A: A tire gets a seemingly uninformative traction grade (?AA,? ?A,? ?B,? or ?C?) based on how much grip it generates in a straight-line test in which the tire is dragged at 40 mph across a wet surface without being allowed to rotate at all.

9.) A: This letter indicates a tire?s ability to dissipate heat. As heat increases dramatically at high speed, this is, in effect, a second, less precise speed rating. ?A? means the tire can withstand speeds over 115 mph, ?B? is for between 100 and 115 mph, and ?C? means between 85 to 100 mph.

10.) M+S: This stands for ?mud and snow? and simply means that the tire has more space between the treads, which should help to facilitate traction on soft surfaces.

11.) MOUNTAIN SNOWFLAKE: Unlike the M+S rating, this icon indicates that a tire has met a minimum performance requirement in snow testing.

12.) ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT (OE) MARKING: These letters?or a symbol?indicate that this is the automaker-specified version of a tire that came as a car?s original equipment. These tires can often be a very different blend of rubber compound compared with the off-the-shelf variety of the same tire, even though the tread pattern is identical. Examples of OE markings: General Motors?all have a TPC SPEC number; BMW?most have a five-pointed-star symbol; Mercedes?some are emblazoned with ?M0?; Porsche?all have the letter ?N? followed by a number, i.e., N1, N2, etc.

13.) TIRE CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS: This is a required and self-explanatory list of the reinforcing materials and number of layers (in both the tread and the sidewall) that are molded into a tire?s rubber for reinforcement.

14.) DOT LABEL: Every tire sold in the U.S. must have U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) labeling. The first two characters indicate the factory of manufacture, and the next five or six are manufacturer-specific jargon (for tracking purposes, as in the case of a recall). The last four numbers give the date of production (the first two indicate which of 52 weeks, and the second two, the year). The European equivalent of the DOT code may also be present (it starts with an ?e?), although fewer manufacturers are printing both on a tire?s sidewall (to prevent gray-market shipments when currency exchange rates fluctuate). If this string of numbers ends with ?-S,? it means the tire complies with European noise regulations.


Here at Acura of Pleasanton, we supply the correct tires for your model Acura at competative prices. Factor in our value added details such as, courtesy shuttle, courtesy loaners or rentals, complimentary wash/vacuum, and fully stocked guest lounges. Its becomes apparent we should be your choice when it becomes time to replace your worn out tires. Give us a call at 866-650-8535 to find out more!

Article by DAVE VANDERWERP
Car and Driver, November 2009

Original article is here at http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/car/09q3/how_to_read_a_tire_sidewall-feature
  • Posted by noreply@blogger.com (Acura of Pleasanton) at 3:14 PM
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December 2, 2011

How to use the features on your MDX
Do you need a refresher on how to use the many features on your Acura MDX? Here are four short videos on how to use features such as, personalized remote settings, navigation, radio, Bluetooth, and more.

Just pick the topic that you need a refresher on.

Outside walk around / personalized seat memory



Steering wheel controls / Radio / CD / HDD / MP3



Navigation set up / use



Bluetooth set up / use
  • Posted by noreply@blogger.com (Acura of Pleasanton) at 12:32 PM
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November 22, 2011

5 Life -Saving Driving Techniques

No one ever gets into their car with the intention of loosing control of it (with the exception of stunt drivers of course). Our cars are one of those objects in our lives that most of us take for granted. However in this article by MSN Auto, it covers how to:

1) Recover from a Skid
    Understeering, Oversteering, Counterskid

2) Stop a HydroPlaning Car 
3) Handle a front tire blow-out
4) Avoid an obstacle in your path
5) Stop with brakes fail

For a more detailed view please follow this link autos.msn.com

Of course some preventative maintenance and checks will go a long way to avoid mechanical induced situations, our factory trained technicians are ready to assist anytime.
  • Posted by noreply@blogger.com (Acura of Pleasanton) at 1:13 PM
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October 3, 2011


Even though it is only Fall, Winter will be right around the corner. Here are some tips to get your Acura ready for Winter duty.

Some tips include, getting an oil change, not just replacing it, but running the proper type/weight of oil is critical for proper lubrication when the temperatures drop. Being able to see clearly, since most of us haven't used the wipers all Summer, the time to find out that they are worn shouldn't be when Mother Nature decides to drop buckets of water while driving.

Follow this link

For tips like these, please also follow us on our Facebook page. 10 Ways to Winterize your Car to see what other tips MSNBC recommends to get you and your family safely through the Winter.
  • Posted by noreply@blogger.com (Acura of Pleasanton) at 11:31 AM
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August 23, 2011

$500 Apple Gift Card for you!

We want to buy your car! Simple to enter, just let us give you a quote to buy your car! You can enter online here or cut and paste url http://www.pleasantonauto.com/apple-gift-card.aspx into your web browser if you like you can call us at 866-650-8535 for an appointment.
  • Posted by noreply@blogger.com (Acura of Pleasanton) at 3:40 PM
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August 18, 2011

Show me the CarFax - what is on a CarFax report?

Ever wondered what is in those CarFax reports? Well here's a sample report that you can see. The report will cover details such as number of previous registered owners, accidents/damage reports, factory vehicle recalls, emissions testing, DMV registration notifications, and even service records (if repair facility is a subscriber to CarFax, such as our dealership).

Click for a Sample CarFax Report

If you have any questions regarding how to read a CarFax report or like to receive one on any of our pre-owned vehicles, please don't hesitate to contact us.
  • Posted by noreply@blogger.com (Acura of Pleasanton) at 7:45 AM
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August 11, 2011

Rick Hendrick ink $250,000 sports sponsorship deal

Rick Hendrick and Hendrick Automotive Group has agreed to a $250,000 sponsorship with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools that will allow middle schools to offer complete sports programs for the upcoming academic year.

For more in depth article please go to http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2011/08/03/2501145/cms-rick-hendrick-ink-250000-sports.html
  • Posted by noreply@blogger.com (Acura of Pleasanton) at 9:26 AM
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July 21, 2011


The temperature isn't the only thing heating up. With very competitive financing and great pre-owned inventory, now is the time to get while the deals are HOT!

Click Here to see more details and some of our great deals!

If you like this type of information, please let us know or just follow us on Facebook
  • Posted by noreply@blogger.com (Acura of Pleasanton) at 11:16 AM
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July 8, 2011

Glossary of Common Car Terminology


Ever wanted to know what all the car jargon was all about? It can be daunting or confusing when it comes to one of the most complex items we will ever own in our lives. Here is a link to a list of the some of the most common terms used in the auto industry.

Glossary of Common Car Teminology

If you like this type of information, please let us know or just follow us on Facebook page
  • Posted by noreply@blogger.com (Acura of Pleasanton) at 8:10 AM
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June 30, 2011

The Hendrick Core Values that each and every of our dealerships represent
Core Values
Hendrick Automotive's mission is to be the premier quality vehicle retailer in the world, providing the best opportunities for our team members, customers, communities, and the manufacturers we represent.

Hendrick Automotive Group has achieved its mission and remains the industry?s leader by following the Hendrick Advantage, a set of core values which the company stands by.

The Hendrick Advantage
Teamwork through Trust and Respect

We at Hendrick know how to value our people. We believe that we are able to reach our goals through cooperation. We recognize each person?s contribution and treat each other with respect.

Integrity
We conduct business in an honest and straightforward manner. It is important that customers as well as members of our team esteem the company as honorable and trustworthy.

Commitment to Customer Enthusiasm
It is our intention to keep our customers satisfied and we continuously work at improving our service for their greater pleasure.

Passion for Winning
Hendrick has a tradition of success that drives its leaders. We keep our eyes on the prize and relentlessly pursue excellence.

Accountability at all Levels
It is our pleasure to have our customers depend on us to deliver on our promise of great service, hence we consistently persevere to provide high quality and efficient business results to maintain our customers? trust in us.

Commitment to Continuous Improvement
We do not believe in resting on our laurels. There is always room for improvement and we always seek it. We remain proactive in finding ways to grow and develop in order to serve our customers better.

  • Posted by noreply@blogger.com (Acura of Pleasanton) at 8:04 AM
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July 30, 2010

Acura of Pleasanton is a proud sponsor of the Moraga Open tennis tournament!
Acura of Pleasanton is a proud to be a Corporate Patron Sponsor of the the Moraga Open tennis tournament taking place Aug 3rd through Aug 8, 2010. Originally called the Stead Open was conceived as the NorCal Sectionals in 1980 and relocated to Moraga Country Club in 1983. Since it's inception, it has grown significantly in spectator participation, player involvement and prize money.

In 1986, the tournament became known as the Stead Open with the involvement of Stead Motors as the major sponsor and the prize money increased from $2,000 to $10,000. This resulted in the tournament earning its way to being considered a very prestigious tennis event. In addition to the increase in prize money, the tournament joined the ranks of open section status which allowed the tournament to draw from a much larger geographic area.

Since 1986, there have been several increases in prize money from $10,000 to the $25,000 currently held as the purse, placing the Moraga Open among the highest prize money open sectional tournaments in the nation . As the prize money has increased, so has both the quantity and quality of players.

The Moraga Open has received very favorable press over the years. In 1990, Inside Tennis voted the Moraga Open the tournament of the 80?s. In 1993, the Moraga Open was recognized as one of the most prestigious Open tournaments in the nation and was featured as such in Tennis Magazine., This magazine has the largest circulation of any tennis magazine. The Moraga Open has received consistent press in Inside Tennis as well as local coverage in the Contra Costa Times and most recently on KGO Radio.
  • Posted by noreply@blogger.com (Acura of Pleasanton) at 2:02 PM
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July 27, 2010

No. 5 Mark Martin Hendrickcars.com Helmet Sweepstakes
Because we are a part of Hendrick Automotive Group we bring you alot of exciting opportunites-- all part of NASCAR excitement.  Here is the latest and greatest.

Hendrickcars.com and Hendrick Motorsports have teamed up to provide one lucky winner one of the best looking helmets in the series. But you have to hurry; the Sweepstakes ends August 4, 2010.

Visit hendrickcars.com to submit a sweepstakes entry. One lucky winner will receive the replica helmet signed by Mark Martin.

Martin?s 32 top-10 finishes and 38 lead-lap finishes at Pocono are the most for the NASCAR veteran at any racetrack. Meanwhile his 19 top-five finishes rank second -- just behind the 22 he has recorded at Dover. In June at Pocono, Martin started 14th and raced into the top-10 before being involved in a last-lap multi-car accident that left him with a 29th-place finish.
  • Posted by noreply@blogger.com (Acura of Pleasanton) at 2:07 PM
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September 18, 2009

Pleasanton Automall's first ever VIP Custom Car & Tuner Event!



Join us for our first ever VIP Custom Car & Tuner Show. Music and prizes, BBQ lunch & refreshemts, People's choice award, FREE car show registration! Vintage Welcome!

When: Sunday, October 18th 11am to 4pmWhere: 4345 Rosewood drive Pleasanton, Ca 94588(925)463-4700


A charitable event for the Taylor Family Foundation's "Coins for Campers" and Sponsored by: Quaker State, B&S Hacienda Autobody, BG, Diablo dents, Finishing edge, Monster energy drinks, Advanced Interior Restoration services, Umigo race
  • Posted by noreply@blogger.com (Acura of Pleasanton) at 1:26 PM
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September 8, 2009

Prelude to the Dream Race at Eldora Speedway
The Prelude to the Dream race at Eldora Speedway has been rescheduled from it's orginal date after being rained out on June 3, 2009. The Prelude to the Dream race will take place next Wednesday, September 9th

It's a dirt-track race where top NASCAR drivers like Jimmie Johnson, Jeff Gordon, Tony Stewart (Eldora Speedway owner), Carl Edwards, Kyle Busch, Kevin Harvick, Kasey Kahne, Matt Kenseth and even more top drivers will battle for first place. These drivers donate their time to participate in this race to help raise money for military charities.

Proceeds from this race will go to support four military-themed charities: Wounded Warrior Project, Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund, Operation Homefront, and Fisher House. These four charities all cater to severely injured military personnel or fallen heroes and their families.

Hendrickcars.com is proud to sponsor Jimmie Johnson in this race. He'll be driving the #48 Hendrickcars.com car and we expect a great finish. He finished in the top 10 last year and should do even better this year with a Hendrickcars.com race car.

Want a Hendrickcars.com vehicle too? Visit us on-line to select from up to 5,000 pre-owned vehicles of all makes and models. Over 50% of our inventory are manufacturer certified pre-owned vehicles with free CARFAX reports. Plus, you can enter the 2009 Dream Weekend at Indy sweepstakes for a chance to win an all-expense-paid trip to the Brickyard 400 courtesy of Hendrick Motorsports.
  • Posted by noreply@blogger.com (Acura of Pleasanton) at 10:36 AM
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August 13, 2009

Explore the 2009 Acura RDX today!
The 2009 Acura RDX is a five-passenger premium all-wheel drive SUV. A 240 hp 2.3-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine powers the RDX with a 5-speed automatic transmission.

The RDX is a turbocharged crossover blending car-like performance and handling characteristics with the versatility of a compact sport utility vehicle. Its premium standard equipment includes a power moonroof, 18-inch alloy wheels, leather upholstery, heated front seats, satellite radio and automatic climate control.

Come; explore the all new 2009 Acura RDX at Acura of Pleasanton, a leading Acura of Pleasanton in Bay Area, CA.
  • Posted by noreply@blogger.com (Acura of Pleasanton) at 10:53 PM
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August 3, 2009

Use CARS for new cars
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!
  • Posted by noreply@blogger.com (Acura of Pleasanton) at 3:42 AM
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July 28, 2009

Acura is the winner of the 2009 Residual Value Award!
As the winner of the 2009 Automotive Lease Guide (ALG) Residual Value Award for Overall Luxury Brand, Acura vehicles have earned the enviable distinction of having the highest expected resale value of any luxury brand.
Acura vehicles boast of precision engineering, meticulous craftsmanship and forward-looking technology. Acura prides itself on building vehicles that stand the test of time.
Acura has been setting new standards in automotive design and engineering for two decades through bold innovation, a refined sense of aesthetics, and quality manufacturing. The result is a stunning vehicle lineup with exhilarating performance, unsurpassed comfort and safety features ? with the most exacting attention to details. And the extreme care that Acura gives to the making of each automobile extends into the community and environment as well.
Acura of Pleasanton, being one of the leading Acura dealers in the Pleasanton area of California, is proud to be associated with the Acura brand.
Please check the webpage http://www.acuraofpleasanton.com/ for details on the Acura cars.
  • Posted by noreply@blogger.com (Acura of Pleasanton) at 9:00 PM
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July 28, 2009

"Cash for Clunkers" at Acura of Pleasanton!
The program, which is due to expire on Oct. 31, lets new car buyers turn in an old vehicle and receive a voucher for between $3,500 and $4,500 to put toward a new, more fuel-efficient car. Cars and trucks must be 1984 models or newer and get 18 mpg or less to be eligible for a trade-in rebate.The idea is to spur vehicle sales while the industry is struggling with the effects of the economic downturn as well as help the environment by getting old, gas guzzling vehicles off U.S. roads.
  • Posted by noreply@blogger.com (Acura of Pleasanton) at 10:10 AM
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July 21, 2009

Acura of Pleasanton's Luxury Tent Event... HELD OVER!
Due to the overwhelming sucsess of our First Ever Luxury Tent Event we have decided to extend the event until August 2nd! During the success of our event we have received a large amount of trade in's from customers who have purchased new vehicles. We are looking to allocate even MORE! So stop in today...look for the HUGE white tents off of Highway 580 at Acura, Infiniti, Lexus, BMW and Mini of Pleasanton! Over 30 Million dollars in Inventory, fantastic selection and the vehicle you have been waiting for!
  • Posted by noreply@blogger.com (Acura of Pleasanton) at 9:40 AM
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July 2, 2009

Hurry in.. our Luxury Tent Event ends soon at Acura of Pleasanton!

 Our first ever luxury tent event has been going full force. Hurry in to Acura of Pleasanton before July 6th to take advantage of this terrific event before it ends! Also make sure to join us on the 4th of July and enjoy a delicious FREE BBQ!!With over 13 million in luxury inventory?hundreds of new, certified pre-owned and used Lexus, Acura, Infiniti, BMW & MINI's all clearly marked with red tag prices! Select luxury vehicles from Hendrickcars.com are also at this exclusive event.
Don't miss out on this one and only opportunity at Acura of Pleasanton!

  • Posted by noreply@blogger.com (Acura of Pleasanton) at 11:31 AM
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June 19, 2009




Why Acura? Because...

To date Acura has been recognized in the industry for the following accomplishments:


The ONLY Automotive Manfacturer to achieve a 5-Star Raiting from the national Highway transportation and Safety Administration (NHTSA) for all tested position on ALL models.


The ONLY Automotive Manfacturer to achieve the "Top Saftey Pick" rating for ALL models in it's product line.


The Highest Residual Value of any Luxury Make according to ALG.
  • Posted by noreply@blogger.com (Acura of Pleasanton) at 9:46 AM
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June 18, 2009



It's coming fast....Hendrickcars.com 2009 Dream Weekend at Indy Sweepstakes Hendrickcars.com and Hendrick Motorsports have teamed up to give you a chance to win a Hendrick VIP weekend at the 2009 Brickyard 400. This is your opportunity to see a great race in first-class style. But you have to hurry; the Sweepstakes ends June 30, 2009. Visit Hendrickcars.com to submit a sweepstakes entry. The winner will receive:
Hendrick VIP Experience at Indianapolis Motor Speedway - July 25 -27, 2009 Hotel and Airfare for two
Personal Hendrick Motorsports tour guide. Meet and Greet with Jimmie Johnson.
Tour a Hendrick Motorsports team transporter. Watch the race from a track-side suite.
Don't Forget, visit Hendrickcars.com to register. While you're there, search from up to 5,000 top quality pre-owned vehicles. Just like Jimmie Johnson, Jeff Gordon, Dale Jr. and Mark Martin say, it makes a difference when you drive a Hendrick car. Search from thousands of manufacturer certified pre-owned vehicles and many CARFAX one owners (CARFAX reports are free on Hendrickcars.com).
Visit Hendrickcars.com and good luck in the sweepstakes!
  • Posted by noreply@blogger.com (Acura of Pleasanton) at 2:21 PM
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June 17, 2009


Don't miss out on Acura of Pleasanton's First ever Luxury Tent Event!
When the tent goes up prices come down!


Great Selection of brands plus great pricing at one location!
Over 13 million in inventory and hundreds of new and pre owned vehicles to choose from.

June 18th thru July 6th
We will be open the 4th of July too!!

To kick off the event the 09 HendrickCars.com
Chevrolet that Tony Stewart drove to Victory Lane in the season opening NASCAR
Nationwide Series event at Daytona International Speedway will be on Display June 20th & 21st at the Pleasanton Automall.
The first 250 guests will receive a race t shirt and hat & don?t miss out on a chance to win NASCAR tickets!
Visit http://www.pleasantonauto.com/ for details!!!

Come by or call (888)698-1618 for details!

  • Posted by noreply@blogger.com (Acura of Pleasanton) at 11:30 AM
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March 24, 2009

Save on your Taxes at Acura of Pleasanton!

Hurry in to Acura of Pleasanton before April 1st, 2009 to save on the upcoming sales tax and license fee increase. Also take advantage of the possible deduction on your federal tax obligation for sales tax paid on the purchase of a new vehicle this 2009 year.

We have a great selection of New and Pre owned models to choose from and many are priced at teriffic savings. All 2009 Acura MDX, RDX, TL and TSX are marked at special pricing.

Come in to Acura of Pleasanton today and SAVE!!
  • Posted by noreply@blogger.com (Acura of Pleasanton) at 2:38 PM
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