Northridge Auto Repair

If you’ve ever taken a close look at an Acura and thought, “This feels a lot like a Honda,” you’re not imagining things. That’s because Acura is Honda’s luxury division, and beneath the leather seats and performance upgrades, the two brands share a lot more than just a family name. From engines and transmissions to interior components and chassis designs, Acuras and Hondas have plenty in common. But does that mean they’re identical? Not quite. Let’s take a closer look at where they overlap—and where they differ. A Shared Foundation Most Acuras are built on the same platforms as their Honda counterparts. For example, the Acura ILX shares much of its DNA with the Honda Civic, while the Acura MDX and RDX are closely related to the Honda Pilot and CR-V, respectively. That means under the surface, many of the structural elements—like the frame, suspension design, and even wheelbase—can be nearly identical ... read more

When it comes to buying a dependable car, Honda is a name that consistently comes up. It’s not just marketing hype—there’s a reason so many people drive their Hondas for a decade or more. Whether you’re commuting through Los Angeles traffic or heading out on a weekend road trip, Honda vehicles have built a reputation for reliability that holds up year after year. But what is it about Honda that makes the brand stand out in the reliability department? Let’s break it down. Simplicity in Engineering Honda’s design philosophy has always leaned toward simplicity and functionality. They build cars that are easy to understand and even easier to maintain. Many Honda models feature naturally aspirated engines without complex turbocharging systems, meaning there are fewer parts that can go wrong. When something needs attention, repairs are generally straightforward and affordable. This engineering approach helps limit mechanical failure po ... read more