by Gabrielle DeSantis

Ever since its redesign a couple of years ago, the Honda Accord has done well to impress auto critics and car buyers alike. With its elegant styling inside and out, a lengthy list of tech-savvy features, and affordable price, the Accord has proven why it deserves its place among the top contenders in the mid-size sedan segment.

That’s also the reason why many mid-size sedan buyers have chosen the 2021 Honda Accord as their go-to means of transportation. It’s not only affordable but it’s also filled with many different features that buyers may not know about. Here are seven tricks on the Accord that the dealer may not make you aware of.

The hidden “developer options” menu

2021 Honda Accord Developer Mode | Joe Santos

The “developer options” menu allows the Honda Accord owner to access more customizable options and diagnostics within the infotainment interface. While there aren’t many Accord owners who will use the extra features, there are some tech-savvy individuals that will be happy they can access this hidden menu.

In order to gain access to the developer menu, you’ll need to press the “settings” button on the infotainment home screen, then press “system.” After that, click on the “about” section and scroll down to “build number.” Start tapping the “build number” section seven times, after which, you’ll be to access the “developer options” menu.

Automatic parking brake release

2021 Honda Accord Parking Brake
2021 Honda Accord Parking Brake | Honda

Every 2021 Accord is equipped with an electronic parking brake, which is operated via a switch on the center console. In most cars, you have to remember to flip the switch before driving to release the parking brake. However, in the Accord, the parking brake will automatically release when you start to drive.

Walk-away auto locking

2021 Honda Accord Walk Away Auto Lock Screen
2021 Honda Accord Walk Away Auto Lock Screen | Joe Santos

Have you ever gotten to your destination and then wondered if you locked your car after walking away from it? Fortunately, with the 2021 Accord, you won’t have to worry. The Accord has a “walk-away auto-lock” feature that automatically locks the doors when you’re five feet away from the car.

In order to enable it, you can select “settings” from the home screen, then select “vehicle.” After that, select “door and window” and then scroll to the bottom of the screen to “walk away auto lock.” It’s set to “off” by default, so now you turn switch it to “on” and never have to worry if the doors are locked.

Turning off the daytime running lights

2021 Honda Accord Daytime Running Lights
2021 Honda Accord Daytime Running Lights | Joe Santos

The Accord’s daytime running lights are always on as a safety measure. However, there may be times when you want to shut them off. In order to do so, you can first enable the parking brake and then shut the car off. When you turn the car back on, the daytime running lights will be off until you toggle the headlights on again.

You can customize the tachometer

One of the 2021 Accord’s most tech-savvy features is its digital dash display, more specifically, the tachometer portion of it. With the push of a button on the steering wheel, the driver can toggle between different menus in that tachometer section. However, when doing so, the tachometer disappears.

If you want it to appear again, you can select “settings” and then “vehicle.” Then go to “meter setup” and scroll to and click “tachometer” and turn it on. After doing that, you’ll be able to see the tachometer when scrolling through different menus.

There are hidden screens

2021 Honda Accord Self-Diagnosis Screen
2021 Honda Accord Self-Diagnosis Screen | Joe Santos

If you want access to more hidden screens and features in your 2021 Accord, then you can hold down the “source, “volume,” and “home” buttons all at the same time. Doing so for a few second will toggle a white and orange screen in which you go into a “self-diagnosis mode” or a detailed information section. In the information section, you’ll find more menus that allow for more customization on your Accord.

Secret trunk release

2021 Honda Accord trunk key slo
2021 Honda Accord trunk key slot | Joe Santos

Finally, if your Honda Accord happens to have a dead battery, then you won’t be able to get into it using the remote. Fortunately, you can pull a backup physical key out of the remote fob and open up the doors.

But how do you open the trunk? That key latch is actually on the decklid behind the rear seats. It’s a bit of stretch to get to it, but when you unlock it with the key, the trunk will pop open.

RELATED: The 2021 Honda Accord Sport Is Actually … Sporty

The post 7 Tricks on the 2021 Honda Accord That the Dealer Won’t Tell You About appeared first on MotorBiscuit.

by Gabrielle DeSantis

If you’re a hard-working Chevrolet fan, get ready to roll up your sleeves with the new 2022 Chevy Kodiak. The Chevrolet Kodiak might be returning as a limited edition Chevy Silverado trim for heavy hauling and utility work. 

The 2022 Chevy Kodiak might return in a big way 

2021 Chevrolet Silverado | Chevy

According to Pickup Truck News, Chevrolet could be continuing the trend of reviving older nameplates of iconic vehicles. The 2022 Chevy Kodiak could make its return as a limited edition. 

The Kodiak could be an optional trim level for the Chevy Silverado Heavy-Duty trucks, or it could be a stand-alone model. We are currently waiting to learn more about the Kodiak, but only rumors have been revealed so far. 

What is the Chevy Kodiak? 

RELATED: Does the Chevy Silverado HD Need Adaptive Cruise Control?

The 2022 Chevy Kodiak could return as a unique special edition that draws on its past as the perfect utility truck to haul massive loads and get work done. The first Chevy Kodiak made its debut in 1980 as a medium-duty truck. 

The first Kodiak shared the cab with the medium-duty C/K trucks, but the hood was shortened by about five inches. It was offered with single and tandem-axle configurations as both a straight truck and semi-tractor. 

In 1990, the second generation of the Kodiak and GMC TopKick were introduced. Two-door and four-door configurations continued to be offered, and a new, more aerodynamic design was established to improve its fuel economy. 

In 2003, the Kodiak and TopKick were redesigned to compete with rivals such as the International DuraStar. They switched to a vertical-oriented cab configuration to lower the cab floor and increase cab space. The most recent model was released in 2010 before being discontinued due to declining sales and interest. 

What do we know about the new Kodiak? 

A red 2021 Chevrolet Silverado Z71 on display
2021 Chevrolet Silverado Z71 | Getty Images

General Motors hasn’t released much about the 2022 Chevy Kodiak yet, but we do have a few rumors to speculate about. Instead of being a stand-alone model, the new Kodiak will probably be a special edition trim for the Silverado HD series. 

It’s possible that a new engine could be developed for the Kodiak. However, it’s more likely that the truck will receive the 6.6-liter Duramax V8 engine. It provides 445 hp and can produce up to 910 lb-ft of torque. It could also receive a few upgrades to improve its performance and fuel efficiency. 

The Kodiak is expected to be available with standard and crew cab variants, but the interior will differ from the previous generation. It’s expected to be more similar to the cab of the 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500

But the new Chevy Kodiak could incorporate unique features such as a more aggressive grille design, new LED headlights, badging, and pops of color in the interior. The materials in the cab could be more durable too. 

It’s safe to expect modern amenities such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to come standard. A wireless charging pad and multi-functional tailgate could be offered as available features. 

The Chevy Kodiak is most likely to return as a daily driver and durable workhorse. It should be comfortable and powerful to serve as the perfect option for worksites. But we will have to wait and learn more. The Kodiak may arrive at the beginning of 2022.

The post The 2022 Chevy Kodiak Is Returning to Get Work Done appeared first on MotorBiscuit.

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Everyone loves a good treasure hunt. If you’re in or around or will be going to Colorado soon, you should pay attention. Especially, if you would love to own a restored 1977 Firebird Trans Am with that screaming chicken on the hood. That’s because somewhere in Colorado are hidden the keys to a black one, and if you find them the Pontiac is yours. For free.

What is this free 1977 Pontiac Trans Am contest about?

BURT REYNOLDS, SALLY FIELD, Smokey and the Bandit | PublicityArchive/United Archives via Getty Images

This is a promotional scavenger hunt from your friends at Coors Brewing. Colorado is known for the invention of the cheeseburger, but it’s also known for its famous brewer. But you’ll have to hurry and start looking.

If you’re 21 or older and have a valid driving license you can register to join in the hunt. Once registered, you’ll get an email. There will be a question about Coors’ history that you’ll have to answer. Getting that right reveals a QR code that provides you with the first clue.

Follow the clues and you’ll discover the 1977 Firebird’s keys

Smokey and the Bandit Pontiac Firebird
A 1977 Pontiac Trans Am used in the movie “Smokey and the Bandit” on display during the press preview | Gabe Ginsberg/FilmMagic via Getty

Your quest involves five clues. Once you get them all they will lead you to the set of keys and you win the Trans Am. Coors will not only deliver the Firebird to your door but will also bestow upon you a one-year supply of Coors Banquet. Just don’t enjoy both the Trans Am and beer at the same time, please. 

Even if you don’t win the Trans Am there’s another prize

Smokey and the Bandit Trans Am Firebird
Burt Reynolds’ 1977 Pontiac Trans Am from the movie “Smokey and the Bandit” | Ethan Miller/Getty Images

So let’s say you missed the deadline or can’t make it out to the Centennial State. You’re still in luck. Especially, if you like Coors beer. That’s because they are giving away a year’s worth of free Coors beer. Just go to their Instagram page and answer the trivia questions posted there. 

But what about if you’re a beer snob? Look, it’s a free year’s worth of beer. Even wine connoisseurs wouldn’t mind sipping a few Coors beers before, during, or after dinner. Right? Just don’t drink it anytime you’re driving or planning to drive. Good Luck! 

RELATED: Barn Find Horde of Dusty Vintage Pontiac Firebirds Is Going to Auction

The post Contest: Find the Restored 1977 Firebird Keys and It’s Yours for Free appeared first on MotorBiscuit.

by Gabrielle DeSantis

GM is issuing a large recall for vehicles across a variety of brands. Consumer Reports reported that some 2021 vehicles from Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC all need to have an issue with the airbag warning light checked. While the recall spans across four brands, the fix seems simple enough.

Consumer Reports: GM recall impacts over 200,000 vehicles

A Chevrolet Corvette is part of the GM recall |
Hector Retamal/AFP via Getty Images

Consumer Reports noted that GM recalled 282,492 vehicles from Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC. The vehicles were from the 2021 model year for a potential airbag warning light. The warning light may not illuminate properly. If this is the case, drivers might be assuming the airbags are properly working when there is an issue. Due to this, drivers might not be properly protected in the event of a crash.

There are a few ways to remedy the issue, according to GM. Owners can download the appropriate software update over the air or take the vehicle to a local dealership to have it fixed. According to GM, the fix should only take about 15 minutes.

Does my GM vehicle have a recall?

This recall includes 2021 Buick Envision SUVs, Cadillac CT4 and CT5 sedans, and the Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV SUVs. Additionally, the Chevrolet Corvette, Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban, GMC Yukon, and the Yukon XL.

If you are the owner of one of these vehicles, you can call the appropriate brand to get more information. The phone numbers are as follows: Buick at 800-521-7300, Cadillac at 800-458-8006, Chevrolet at 800-222-1020, and GMC at 800-462-8782. GM will contact owners in July if the vehicle is impacted. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) campaign number is 21V421. GM has a corresponding recall number of N212338110.

Owners can also check the NHTSA website with the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) for open recalls. The VIN is located on the windshield or the driver’s side door of most vehicles.

Automakers are struggling with demand

While these cars are having an issue with an airbag warning light, owners are fortunate to have gotten a vehicle at all. Consumer Reports says that if you anticipate the delivery of a new vehicle, be prepared for change. There is a good chance some features might be missing. Automakers like Tesla and GM have pivoted to remove certain features that were holding production back.

“There are problems right now within the industry related to a variety of parts and components,” Stephanie Brinley of IHS Markit told CR. While demand for both used and new vehicles have spiked, automakers don’t have all the necessary components to complete builds.

In conclusion, things will improve. Consumer Reports urges people to be patient if a vehicle comes without anticipated features. The industry is reeling from change, but experts anticipate things to level out eventually.

RELATED: Consumer Reports: Best Acceleration & Fuel Economy in Compact Cars

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