The Best Kept Secret Blog - Engine Shampoo, $352.00 - Sipping A Latte At The Honda Dealership, Priceless

It's hard to say what the tipping point was - the final seduction that drew me in and caused me to abandon all reason.

Perhaps it was the chocolate sprinkles for my latte. Or maybe it was the knowing looked that played across the car jockey's face when he took my keys. But whatever it is, I'm hooked and there will never be another. I'm taking my car to Honda for servicing for the rest of my life.

To understand my devotion you must first know my history.

When I was young and foolish my cars were serviced by fast talking, two-bit mechanics with names like Gus and Nick. Their auto yards were always on the wrong side of town and I only went there out of need, I tell you.

In their dingy grey overalls, cigarettes dangling from their mouths, they'd force me to back my own car into the service bay, knowing full well I sucked at backing up, that I might accidentally fall into the oil pit at any moment.

Then I'd wait in a cramped office decorated with pictures to Miss September until they came to tell me that sure, the oil was changed but if I didn't get the engine shampooed immediately, there would be hell to pay - that there was no guarantee whether I'd live or die if I drove on the highway with a dirty engine.

What did I know? I was a young, innocent girl and their words dazzled me. "Manifold" they'd whisper. "Carburetor" they'd purr. Before I could stop myself I was forking over cash so they could add anti-freeze in July.

But it all changed the day the new mini-van drove into my life.

It was different from all the rest - new and shiny and it came with a warranty.

It was a classy kind of car - not the kind of vehicle you take to the local repair shop. Nahh, nothing but the dealership would do for an auto like this.

My first oil change with the van was like nothing I had ever experienced before. I think the earth moved.

Cute young men in khaki pants and matching windbreakers met me at the doors to the service bay. While one took my keys another guided me to the reception desk. When I confirmed I had an appointment and recited my license plate number they beamed at me like I had just solved the cold fusion puzzle.

After they slipped me a buzzer to tell me when my van would be ready, they guided me to the waiting area. Once there they showered me with free coffee, Internet access and all the piped in music I could handle. I was in love.

I know they're always looking out for my best interest. Why just last week when I went to have my oil changed they suggested that maybe I should have the engine shampooed and I said, "Yes, yes, yes". I trust them - they know what I need.

Engine Shampoo, $352.00 - Sipping A Latte At The Honda Dealership, Priceless.