Hank Graff Chevrolet - Bay City: Vehicle Maintenance

Showing posts with label Vehicle Maintenance. Show all posts

Tuesday, June 5, 2018

Bad Habits that Reduce Vehicle Performance

BAY CITY, Mich. – Your vehicle is a huge financial investment! From daily commutes to road trips, your vehicle's efficiency is extremely important. However, many people fall victim to bad habits that reduce vehicle performance. These bad habits can cut the life of your vehicle in half and significantly lower its resale value. While these habits can be hard to break, with enough effort, you'll be giving your vehicle the proper attention it deserves in no time!

Bad Habit #1: Accelerating Too Fast

While accelerating quickly may give you an adrenaline boost, it can be very bad for your vehicle! Doing this too frequently can burn a lot of fuel, hurting your fuel economy and placing a heavy load on driving components. When you accelerate too quickly, you're likely going to have to brake abruptly too, which can cause your brake pads and rotors to wear down or warp over time. The best way to extend the life of your engine and brakes is to avoid sudden or repeated acceleration!

Bad Habit #2: Driving Dirty

Driving with a dirty interior or exterior can cause both short and long-term damage to your vehicle. Without regular washes, your vehicle's exterior can receive damage from salt, dirt, and other elements it may encounter on the road, which will reduce its resale value. Also, a dirty windshield can reduce your vision or altogether prevent you from driving safely. Make sure you clean your vehicle's interior frequently to avoid any stains or messes that would further reduce its value.

Bad Habit #3: Carrying Too Much

Frequently carrying a large amount of cargo, especially in the first few thousand miles of a vehicle's life, will put a significant amount of strain on your vehicle. Your engine will need to put more effort in to make up for the additional weight, which will drain fuel quicker and put more pressure on your brakes, tires, and other components. Clean your vehicle regularly to reduce this strain and increase its value.

Bad Habit #4: Ignoring Warning Signs

If you notice any squeaking, rattling, humming, or emergency lights, have someone diagnose it as soon as possible! You may be worrying about the initial costs, but it will be much more expensive if it ends up being something serious that could have been prevented. Read our list of service lights and their meanings to prepare yourself for any situation may require your attention.

Bad Habit #5: Abruptly Shifting from Reverse to Drive

Abruptly shifting your gear from reverse to drive or vice versa puts immediate strain on your vehicle's transmission, which can lead to extremely costly repairs. Making sure your vehicle is completely stopped before you transition between gears will make a noticeable difference with parking and pulling out. You'll extend your transmission's life and make shifting gears a much easier process. Automatic vehicles are the most likely to suffer from this, so if you drive an automatic, make sure you aren't falling victim to this bad habit!

At Graff Bay City, we want you to value your vehicle, as it's a very large part of your life. Since you use it almost daily, you'll want to make sure it runs smoothly. Keeping an eye on any bad habits that reduce vehicle performance will maximize your vehicle's life and keep you safe on the road. If you notice anything different with your vehicle or would like it checked out, feel free to schedule an appointment to get it looked at as soon as you can! It's better to be safe than sorry, especially when it comes to your vehicle!

Hank Graff Chevy is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706 and we are here to help our community grow to become an even better place to call home! For more information on Hank Graff Chevrolet, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our website: www.GraffBayCity.com.

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Monday, May 21, 2018

Service Lights and What They Mean

BAY CITY, Mich. –– We've all had it happen before: you're driving and suddenly a service symbol lights up on your car's dashboard. It can make anyone worried, from first-time drivers to people that have been driving for a very long time. To help you manage your stress and vehicle, we've created a list of the most serious service lights and what they mean. Using this handy guide can keep you and your car safe with any situation. We'll show you to handle each of these severe warnings to keep your vehicle in peak condition.

Check Engine Warning

There are many reasons why your Check Engine light can come on, but it's best to be proactive with this warning. It could be anything from a loose cap to wires that need replacing. When a Check Engine light comes on, it is best to take it to a mechanic as soon as possible, as their scanning tools can diagnose the issue much quicker to get your vehicle back on the road.

Coolant Temperature Warning

This light means that your vehicle is running at a higher than normal temperature. It's best to think ahead when you see a warning like this, as it can potentially damage your vehicle if left unchecked. It can be a coolant leak, a malfunctioning engine thermostat, or another issue, but your best bet is to get your vehicle towed to take care of the issue before it gets too serious.

Parking Brake Warning

If you have malfunctions in your braking system, this light will turn on to indicate that. However, there's also a chance that you could have left your parking brake on, so before you test your brakes, make sure your parking brake isn't on! If you release it and the light is still illuminated, you should call for assistance. You and the other vehicles on the road will be much safer because of it!

Traction Control Warning

When this light is illuminated, it means your vehicle's ability to brake or control traction is impaired, either due to the computer in your vehicle or through your car itself. Sometimes, the traction control's "off" button may have been accidentally pressed, and other times, it can be a more severe issue. Refer to your vehicle owner's manual to reset the issue, and if it persists, make sure you receive service!

Airbag Warning

This light comes on for a few seconds when you start up your vehicle. If it stays on, though, it means there could be an issue with your airbag or seatbelt. If you get into an accident and this light is on, it can prevent your airbags from operating. You can still drive your vehicle with no issue, but make sure you get this problem taken care of as quickly as possible.

Safety is a priority for us at Graff Bay City. We want to make sure that you know what to do if one of these lights happens to come on while you're driving. Keeping up to date on service lights and what they mean will help you keep yourself safe on and off the road. If one of these lights comes on, make sure to schedule an appointment at our Service Center as quickly as possible. We have an FAQ for any questions you may have with additional service lights or other maintenance issues. Our Service Staff is always available to help you with any concerns you have for your vehicle.

Monday, September 11, 2017

Know When to Get an Oil Change

BAY CITY, Mich. –– Your vehicle is very similar to the human body in that it requires a lot of working parts in order to run. Thinking of it in this way will help you to properly care for its individual components. If your vehicle's engine is its "heart", its motor oil serves as the "blood", allowing components to work efficiently and smoothly. However, your vehicle's specific components will require replacement over time. If you know when to get your oil changed, you can keep your vehicle's "heart" running for years to come. Read on to learn how to check your oil, when you'll need to get it changed, and more!

When should I get my oil changed?

Oil change intervals can differ between vehicles. Older vehicles may require an oil change every 3,000-5,000 miles, while newer vehicles may need it every 5,000-8,000 miles. Depending on the type of oil your vehicle takes, these numbers can differ. If you aren't sure when your oil needs to be changed or the type of oil your vehicle uses, consult your owner's manual. You can use it as a service log to keep track of routine maintenance so you'll know when you need to schedule future oil changes!

How do I check my oil?

Before you bring your vehicle in for an oil change, you can check it at home with a few easy steps! Checking your oil is an important skill all vehicle owners should know. It will help you determine when you should schedule service and can help if you forgot when you last received an oil change. Follow these steps to check your oil at home:

After turning off your vehicle and allowing your engine to cool down, pop your vehicle's hood.
Look for your engine's dipstick. It should be a yellow lever similar to the one in the image above.
Pull the dipstick out of your engine and wipe it on a cloth, removing any excess oil.
Reinsert the dipstick into your engine, removing it again.
Your dipstick will have "full" and "empty" labels on it. If your oil level is below the "empty" label, it's time for an oil change!

What are the signs that I need my oil changed?

Consequently, there are also several signs that your vehicle can give you if you need an oil change. If you notice any of these indicators, bring your vehicle in for an oil change right away! Pay attention to these signs while you drive to find out whether or not you need an oil change:

Your Engine Oil Looks Dark: When you first get your oil changed, it will be a honey brown color. After a while, it will darken, but if you check your oil and it looks black and grimy, it's time to schedule an appointment for service.
Your Engine Is Running Louder Than Usual: If you have low oil levels, your engine can begin to make unusual noises and can run louder than normal. If you notice this or your engine's heat starts to increase, get your oil changed right away!
Your Check Engine Light Stays On: Newer vehicles usually provide notification to their drivers if their vehicle needs an oil replacement. However, older vehicles notify their drivers through the Check Engine light. Schedule an appointment right away when your Check Engine light illuminates!
You Find Particles In Your Oil: The next time you check your oil, wear latex gloves and rub the oil between your finger and thumb. If you feel any metal flakes, grit, or other particles, something could be severely wrong with your engine. Bring it in as soon as possible!

What happens if I don't change my oil?

Ignoring your vehicle's need to change oil can lead to serious consequences. Your engine's oil works to keep its components running smoothly, allowing it to run without any issue. Without it these parts can rub against one another, causing friction and increasing your engine's heat. If your engine's heat increases, several important components in your engine can become damaged or warped. This can lead to extremely costly repairs and can potentially ruin your engine. Don't forget to regularly check your oil and replace it when needed!

How much does an oil change cost?

Depending on the make, model, and type of oil your vehicle requires, costs can vary anywhere between $20-55. Some larger vehicles require more oil, and vehicles that require synthetic oil can affect the cost, as well. Call us today for a free estimate and make sure to check out our coupons to save some extra cash on your next oil change!

Routine maintenance is a significant part of vehicle ownership. In order to protect your investment and make sure that your vehicle enjoys a long and productive life, knowing when to get an oil change can make a huge difference in your vehicle's future. Save big on your next oil change by using our maintenance coupons. You'll be able to find discounts on oil changes, tire service, battery replacements, and much more! You can set up your next service appointment without leaving your couch by scheduling it online or calling us at (989) 684-4411. Let us know if you have any questions or if you need anything looked at and we can help you as soon as possible!

Wednesday, July 26, 2017

How to Inspect Your Vehicle for Maintenance

BAY CITY, Mich.,– Whether you're a first-time vehicle owner or have sat behind your fair share of steering wheels, knowing when your vehicle may need maintenance can save you money and can prevent expensive repairs from arising. Learning how to inspect your vehicle for maintenance will give you the skills you need to check your oil, tire pressure, and more to ensure your vehicle achieves top performance on the road. Preventative maintenance is one of the best ways to save money with your vehicle, and checking up on the workings of your vehicle on a weekly basis will keep you prepared in the event that it may need maintenance in the future.

Checking Your Tires

How to Inspect Your Vehicle for Maintenance

Your tires, while durable, can wear down after long months of driving, reducing their tread. If your tires don't have deep grooves, they won't be able to grip the road effectively, especially in wet or muddy environments, and can greatly increase the risk of hydroplaning.

A very easy way to check your tires' tread is the popular "penny method". Place a penny face down in the center groove of your tire. If you can see most or all of Lincoln's face, your tread is too short and will require replacement. In the event that you require new tires, our tire price guarantee gives you the benefit of the doubt! If you purchase tires with us, and within 30 days of your purchase find something cheaper, we will refund you the difference!

Check Your Oil

Engine oil works to lubricate important components of your engine, allowing it to run smoothly and prevent overheating. Your oil should be replaced every 3,000-5,000 miles, or whenever your vehicle owner's manual tells you to do so. Checking it at home can give you a good idea of whether or not you'll require an oil change soon.

Pop the hood of your vehicle (while your engine is cool) and look for an oil dipstick like the one in the image above; it should be clearly labeled or stand out among the engine components. Pull the dipstick out, wipe it clean with a cloth, then insert it and pull it out again. The dipstick should have a way of indicating the level of your oil, whether it's "min" and "max" labels, or "L" (low) and "H" (high). If your oil is below the minimum level, it's time for an oil change. We offer a variety of oil change options and specials with our selection of coupons, free for you to use at your disposal!

Checking Your Coolant

Your coolant is another extremely important fluid that helps your vehicle run efficiently. Coolant helps to reduce the temperature of your engine, and without it, your engine would quickly overheat and break down. Coolant is typically replaced every 30,000 miles, or whenever your vehicle owner's manual recommends it. Checking your coolant is even easier than checking your oil level or tire tread, and can save you a lot of stress in the event that your coolant needs replacing.

After letting your engine completely cool down, pop the hood of your vehicle and locate your coolant reservoir. It should be in a large container next to your engine that is brightly colored. Locate the labels on the side of the reservoir to properly inspect the coolant's levels. If your coolant is below the minimum level, get your vehicle in for a coolant replacement right away to prevent any extensive damage to your engine or its components! Use our Graff XPress service for quick, easy, and efficient service to get your coolant replaced right away.

Checking Your Wiper Fluid

Other fluids, such as wiper fluid, are just as easily checked as coolant. Keeping your wiper fluid properly filled, regardless of the season, will allow you to remain ahead of the curve in the event of a storm or abrupt change in weather. If you've noticed your wiper fluid isn't as efficient as it once was, it may be time for a refill. Pop your hood and locate the blue wiper fluid reservoir, then refill as needed. You'll be ready to go in no time!

Wiper Replacements

If you notice your wipers "skidding" across your windshield, they may have begun to wear down after repeated usage. While this may not seem like a big deal initially, ineffective wipers can reduce your vision in the event of a storm. It's better to be safe than sorry! Wipers are very inexpensive and if you purchase them with Graff Bay City, we'll be more than happy to help you install them, free of charge!

With these handy tips, you'll be able to perform a quick and easy inspection on your vehicle in no time, just like an expert mechanic would! Now that you know how to inspect your vehicle for maintenance, your car will be in good hands if something were to happen. If your vehicle is experiencing any issues that we haven't covered, or is in need of an extra pair of eyes, feel free to schedule an appointment with us. Our friendly and attentive Service Staff will gladly take a look at your vehicle! If you want to perform more at-home preventative maintenance, refer to our routine maintenance tips for some extra tips.

Friday, June 24, 2016

5 Family Road Trip Games

BAY CITY, Mich. – If your family is planning a road trip this summer make sure you don’t hear the words “I’m bored” or “are we there yet?” during your trip. With our 5 family road trip games, your time in the car will fly by! Everyone from the young kids to your teenagers will have fun with scavenger hunts, showing off their movie knowledge, and even playing the classic I SPY game. At Graff Bay City we want to make your road trip fun with games but also with the vehicle you drive! So pack up the family in something spacious like the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse and take a look below at how these games will make your next road trip unforgettable!

I SPY
Everyone loves this classic game! It can occupy every passenger from when you pull out of the driveway to when you reach your destination! To keep track of your different discoveries you can use print outs like the one below:

Cow Game
This game takes back road driving to a new level. The rules are simple, shout “my cow” when you see a cow on your side of the vehicle and earn a point. Bonus points if you see a cow from the other side of the car before someone else does!

Scavenger Hunt
A scavenger hunts keeps everyone aware of their surroundings and is a great way to pass the time when you are in the car for many hours. Below you can get easy print outs, or you can create your own list of findings for your family’s next travel adventure.

License Plate Game
Another classic game that we played when we were young. Everyone knows the rules, try to find as many different state license plates as you can! Make sure to write a list of each state, or you can access print outs below to help you keep track.

The Movie Game
This game is fun if you have older kids, or huge movie buffs in the car! Start by naming a famous actor/actress. The next person names a movie they starred in. The next person names ANOTHER actor/actress from the same movie. Then the third person names another movie that starred the previous actor/actress mentioned. It’s a fun game to test your movie knowledge!

Your upcoming vacation will be a blast with our 5 family road trip games. Everyone will have fun looking for out of state license plates, or road signs, or even cows! At Graff Bay City we want you to make the most of your summer vacation. Which is why you should start your planning by visiting our sales team at our dealership. We can help you find the perfect vehicle that is great for traveling. The 2016 Chevrolet Traverse is perfect for the whole family. The convenient cargo space can adjust to the luggage you travel with, the advanced technologies like 4G LTE Wi-Fi keeps you connected no matter where you are, and the top safety features keep everyone safe on the road. Contact our team at Graff Bay City and schedule a test drive for the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse.

Additional to having games ready for your trip, you will want to make sure your current vehicle is ready for the road. Visit the Summer Car Care pages on our website for ways to keep your vehicle in great condition during the summer months. With service tips on your cooling and A/C systems, external lights, and fuel system your car will be prepared to keep everyone safe and cool in the car while giving the vehicle the best fuel efficiency. You can also discover different sun protection tips for your car, truck, SUV, or crossover’s exterior and interior. And we even discuss different cosmetic repairs you can work on while the weather is nice. If your ready to schedule your next summer car care appointment, the experts at our Graff Bay City Service Center are here for you. Schedule your appointment today!

Hank Graff Chevy is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706 and we can help you find the perfect vehicle for your weekend getaway! For more information on Hank Graff Chevrolet, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our website: www.GraffBayCity.com.

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Thursday, June 23, 2016

Chevrolet Proved to Dominate the Competition with the Silverado Steel Truck Bed

BAY CITY, Mich. – Chevrolet has amplified their heavy-duty truck label in the Silverado, starting with the truck bed. By advancing the vehicle's structure with different materials, Chevrolet proved to dominate the competition with the Silverado steel truck bed. The high strength steel alloy truck bed was created with a special roll forming process to enhance the material’s strength. But Chevrolet didn’t just want to make a new steel bed, they wanted to make sure it could withstand the toughest scenarios against the leading competitor's aluminum truck bed. Below are a few ways the steel bed and aluminum bed were put to the test.

Laboratory testing:
Both beds were tested in GM’s Research and Development Laboratory. By using a machine fitted wedge striker, GM tested the amount of energy impact the truck beds could withstand until the material was punctured. The tests resulted with the aluminum bed receiving punctures after 40 joules of impact-energy, and the steel bed didn’t see punctures until at 90 joules of impact energy.

Landscaping blocks test:
Chevrolet performed 12 landscaping block tests where 825 pounds of landscaping blocks were dropped in both the aluminum and steel beds (without lining). Out of the 12 demonstrations the aluminum bed saw a significant amount of punctures, averaging 4.3 holes per demonstration. The Silverado steel bed saw only dents and no punctures after 12 demonstrations.

Toolbox test:
There were 14 toolbox tests performed where Chevrolet dropped an empty metal toolbox from the same location of both truck beds. The results concluded the aluminum bed saw 1 toolbox dent and 13 toolbox punctures. The steel bed saw 12 dents and only 2 punctures.

After putting both the aluminum and the steel bed to the test, Chevrolet proved to dominate the competition with the Silverado steel truck bed. The new Silverado steel bed was made to help customers haul their toys, cargo, and tools without worrying about the condition of their vehicle. To get a hands-on feel of the Chevrolet Silverado, visit our sales team at Graff Bay City. You can get behind the wheel of a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado and discover why everyone loves the heavy-duty truck. Contact our dealership and schedule your test-drive today.

Make sure your current vehicle is Silverado strong with our new Summer Car Care pages! Our new seasonal maintenance section will walk you through the importance of your fuel system, cooling and A/C system, and your external lights during the summer season. Our Summer Car Care also offers vehicle cosmetic repair suggestions and sun protection tips for your car, truck, SUV, or crossover’s interior and exterior. To schedule your summer car care appointment, contact our Graff Bay City Service Center online or call our dealership.

Hank Graff Chevy is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706 and we can help you find the perfect vehicle for your weekend getaway! For more information on Hank Graff Chevrolet, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our website: www.GraffBayCity.com.

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Friday, June 17, 2016

Sports Family Survival Kit for the Car

BAY CITY, Mich. – Summer has arrived and that means travel sports teams. When you are running the kids from the soccer field, to the baseball diamond, and then to the tennis courts, you want to make sure you are prepared for anything. At Graff Bay City we know the sports weekends can be busy, that is why we put together 10 items for a sports family survival kit for the car! Now you can be prepared for any accidents, inclement weather, and hungry kids. Take a look below at some of the items you could include in your survival kit:

First Aid Kit – Be ready for any kind of accident. A proper first aid kit is good to have for scratches and cuts, but can also be helpful incase of an emergency. First Aid kit supplies could include: band aids, antiseptic, bandage wraps, and medical tape.
Wet Naps – Whether it is to wipe up dirt and grass stains, or to clean messy food hands, these will become an essential for your vehicle. Wet naps are a great universal tool to get a quick clean.
Sunscreen – Even if the sun is not shining, the UV rays can cause burns and damage to your skin on overcast days. Protect yourself and your athletes with the proper SPF number.
Paper Towels – Paper towels is another great universal tool that are helpful for cleaning up messy athletes. They can also be useful to hold food or clean the car.
Travel Snacks – Every athlete is hungry when they are done playing a game or tournament. Be prepared to feed hungry bellies with a few travel snacks. Trail mix, fruit, veggies, or granola bars are easy and portable options.
Bottled Water – Having bottled water on hand quenches thirsty kids, but it is also good to have for cleaning messes any time.
Chap stick – Fight chapped lips by keeping a stick around. Chap sticks also come with UV protection so you can keep lips from getting burned as well.
Camping Folding Chairs/Blanket – While you worry about the athletes, don’t forget yourself! Keep a few chairs or a blanket in the car for when it’s time to sit back and watch the game.
Umbrella/Poncho – It is the summer season and rain happens, even when we least expect it. Always be ready with some rain protection gear!
Sunglasses – Keeping an extra pair of sunglasses is great for the really sunny days. You never know who might forget their pair.

With our sports family survival kit for the car you can be ready for what ever will come your way during the busy tournament weekends. If you are looking for a vehicle that will keep up with your busy summer then stop into Graff Bay City! We can get you behind the wheel of a 2016 Chevrolet Traverse. You will love the cargo space, entertainment technologies, and top safety features in this family crossover vehicle. Contact our sales team to schedule a test-drive today!

If you are looking to get your current vehicle ready for the busy sports-filled summer then visit our Summer Car Care pages on our website. Our Summer Car Care will take you through the importance of getting your external lights, fuel system, and cooling and A/C system serviced. It will also discuss the different cosmetic repairs that can be done during the warmer months, and it offers different sun protection tips for your vehicle’s interior and exterior. Schedule your Summer Car Care appointment with the Graff Bay City Service Center and we will have you on the road in no time.

Hank Graff Chevy is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706 and we can help you find the perfect vehicle for your weekend getaway! For more information on Hank Graff Chevrolet, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our website: www.GraffBayCity.com.

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Wednesday, March 30, 2016

ArtClash 2016 Will Be Hosted At Graff Bay City!

BAY CITY, Mich. – Last year Graff Bay City hosted ArtClash 2015 and this year we are doing it again! ArtClash is a unique and exciting art competition through our partnership with Do-All, Inc., a non-profit organization that provides training, work, and employment support to people with developmental and other disabilities. ArtClash 2016 will be hosted at Graff Bay City on Saturday, April 23rd, from 4:30pm to 7:30pm. You can purchase your tickets today!

Graff Bay City could not be more excited to be hosting this year's ArtClash event! ArtClash is a 3-hour LIVE juried art competition, giving local artists the opportunity to showcase their talent! Contestants have three hours to create their masterpieces, which will then be judged by faculty and local art professionals. The prizes will be awarded as follows –––

1st Place: $500

2nd Place: $350

3rd Place: $200

4th-10th Place: $50 each

People’s Choice: $100

Youth: $50

The winning art pieces will be available for purchase during a live auction immediately following the event. Even if contestants do not place in the top 10, their pieces will still be available for sale! The best part of this auction is that the talented artists will receive 50% of the sale price and the other 50% will benefit Do-Art Studio & Gallery!

If you’d like to register for ArtClash 2016, sign-up fast! The competition is limited to 65 artists. Registration contracts can be found online on Do-All, Inc.’s website and they must be submitted by April 15th.

Another option to attending this awesomely creative event is to sponsor. If your business is interested there are four different levels you can choose from:

Sponsor an ArtClash Artist: $50

Business card ad in the event program

Work of Art: $250

4 Tickets

Quarter-page ad in the event program

Advertising on any promotional materials

Classic: $500

4 event tickets

Half-page ad in the event program

Advertising on any promotional materials

Masterpiece: $1,000

6 event tickets

Full page ad in the event program

Advertising on any promotional materials

We are looking forward to hosting ArtClash 2016 at Graff Bay City! If you are interested in registering, sponsoring, or purchasing tickets for this awesome event, visit GraffBayCity.com.

Get your vehicle ready for spring with the Graff Bay City service experts. We've made a new section on our website that teaches you the importance of spring maintenance for your wipers, tires, alignment, and more. Check out our spring car care section today to be prepared for the season. Hank Graff Chevy is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706 and we are here to help our community grow to become an even better place to call home! For more information on Hank Graff Chevrolet, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our website: www.GraffBayCity.com.

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Friday, January 29, 2016

Winter Vehicle Maintenance & Car Care Tips at Graff Bay City

Winter Vehicle Maintenance and Car Care Tips at Graff Bay City

BAY CITY, Mich. – At Graff Bay City, we understand that buying or leasing a vehicle is a big investment, and it’s important to keep that investment in tip-top shape. With winter in full swing now, there are many damaging elements that can impact the condition of your vehicle – think salt, snow, and frigid temperatures. If you haven’t yet taken any precautions to prepare your vehicle for the winter season, it’s time for some proper winter vehicle maintenance! On our website, we have just launched a new service section just for you, covering winter car care tips and vehicle maintenance at Graff Bay City. These best practices will help you keep your car running better and longer for seasons to come!

On our new Winter Car Care Page, you’ll find tips on –

Tires: Find out why it’s important to understand the value winter tires offer. Winter tires are designed to handle winter roads specifically, and with the roads being slushy and icy, the thicker treads will help keep you from sliding around. Click the link to learn more about winter tires.
Batteries: In general, car batteries normally last around two to three years. However, freezing temperatures can be hard on your battery life, so it’s crucial to be aware of your vehicle's battery life and replace it when necessary. Learn more about your car battery by clicking the link.
Brakes: Your vehicle's brakes keep you safe through every season, but during the winter they are especially important. In winter weather it can take your vehicle a longer distance to break on snow and ice, so making sure your brakes work properly is key. Follow the link to read more about your brakes.
Oil Changes: Your engine’s performance depends on regular oil changes, and when your oil is changed on a regular basis, you help extend the life of your vehicle. In the winter, it’s particularly important to keep up with oil changes because the fridgid temperatures can have an effect on the oil. For a list of signs your vehicle needs an oil change, follow the link.
Wiper Blades: You need a clear view to drive in any season, but your vehicle's wiper blades become especially important in the winter due to debris from snow, salt, and ice. Harsh winter conditions can wear on your wiper blades, so click the link to find out how to know if you need to replace your wiper blades.

Winter weather and the driving conditions it creates can take a serious toll on your car if you’re not properly prepared. To ensure that your vehicle will keep you safe and sound all season long, visit our Graff Bay City winter car care and vehicle maintenance pages for more information. Each page will provide you with the best winter car care tips for your tires, battery, brakes, oil changes, and wiper blades. If you’d like to schedule a service appointment for help on any of these topics, you can do that too. We’re always ready to help you at Graff Bay City.

Hank Graff Chevy is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706 and we are here to help you find the perfect car, truck, or SUV for your new family! For more information on Hank Graff Chevrolet, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our website: www.GraffBayCity.com.

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Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Getting an Oil Change at Graff Bay City

BAY CITY, Mich. – Did you know that it's super easy to drop off your vehicle at Graff Bay City for an oil change? It is our goal to make your service experience as enjoyable as it possibly can be and that includes the drop off process!

When you get an oil change at Graff Bay City, all you have to do is pull up to our oil change lane on the side of our building on Wilder Road, pull up to the doors and one of our team members will let your right in! No waiting, or trying to figure out where to go. And to make it even easier, we show you exactly what to do in the video below!

Getting an Oil Change at Graff Bay City:

Plus, we want to help you save some green on your vehicle maintenance too. Make sure to check out our service specials and coupons for the latest deals! Hank Graff Chevy is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706 and we can help you find just the convertible for your needs! For more information on Hank Graff Chevrolet, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our websites: www.GraffBayCity.com.

Wednesday, June 19, 2013

Car Maintenance Tips for a Safe Summer

BAY CITY, Mich. - With Friday being the official first day of summer, Americans all over the country will be hopping in their car to travel for vacation. Whether you're traveling across the state or across the country, it's important to know specific car tips for a safe summer.

Safety tips are not only to ensure you practice safe driving, but for the actual maintenance of your vehicle as well. The summer heat can be particularly harsh on a vehicle, much like the winter's freeze, so it's important to know what to expect when you're in your car and on the road.

Before we cover these car tips for a safe summer, you should know that it's important to have your car regularly maintained. Maintenance such as oil changes, tire rotations, etc. do a lot for your car, and can give you peace of mind that you're driving a vehicle that is running at peak performance. If you aren't one to get your vehicle regularly checked, or you don't recall the last time you stopped in at Brighton Ford, check out these car tips to ensure that your vehicle is ready for the summer:

Tires

Checking your tires regularly is very important, as you don't want a frightening blowout to make you aware of your tire's state. So check your tire's pressure at least once a month (along with your spare) just to make sure that you're not losing air. Also, check to make sure that your tires aren't showing signs of irregular or excessive wear. Ideally, you want to make sure that your tires are all wearing evenly and maintain the correct air pressure. Having your tires fully inflated improves your gas mileage along as ensuring you won't have a flat - consider the fuel efficiency a bonus!

Belts and Hoses

The high temperatures that accompany summer can be especially hard on your belts and hoses. As a lot of the belts and hoses are rubber, the excessive heat can cause them to crack, blister, or break all together. So make sure to check your belts and hoses, just to ensure that they won't break when you're actually driving. If you're unsure about what to look for, stop in at Hank Graff and we can look it over for you.

Coolant Levels

If you're driving in the car for any amount of time, you definitely want to eliminate the possibility of your engine overheating. By checking your coolant levels and making sure that they are at the proper level, you shouldn't encounter any problems.

Air Conditioning

While we're on the subject of overheating, it's important to think about yourself! On a really hot day, it can be potentially hazardous to be driving in a car without air conditioning - especially if you are a child, or a senior. So check your AC performance now, and make sure that you're driving in a cool vehicle on a hot summer day.

Fluid Levels

We discussed checking your coolant levels, but you're going to want to be aware of the oil, brake, transmission, power steering and windshield fluids as well. Check all the fluid levels and top off any that seem to be getting a little low. If it's time for an oil change, now is the time to stop in.

By regularly looking over your vehicle and following the above-mentioned car tips, you're extending the life of your vehicle and minimizing any problems you may encounter on the road.

Looking to get a new or used car to start the summer off right? Stop by our Birch Run Area Chevrolet Dealership where we can show you a great selection of Low Mileage Used Cars and Discounted Used Cars. Your Mid-Michigan Chevy Dealer is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706. For more information on Graff Bay City, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our website at www.graffbaycity.com.

Friday, April 19, 2013

Graff Chevrolet Bay City Service Center

BAY CITY, Mich.- We're so excited to show you this new video created by General Motors featuring our Graff Chevrolet Bay City Service Center! As a part of the local community for over 25 years, it is our goal to provide all of our customers with a superior solution to all of their auto needs and that includes your vehicle's service. Our GM-trained and ASE-certified technicians will service your vehicle in a timely manner to get you back on the road in a vehicle you can rely on.

When you come to the Graff Chevrolet Bay City Service Center you can feel confident knowing you are receiving the area's top service. While addressing your vehicle's routine maintenance may not be your favorite thing to do, we're here to make the process convenient for you. At your Mid-Michigan Chevy Dealer you can schedule your service appointment online. And if you need to drop off your vehicle, you can rely on our alternate transportation or enjoy our comfortable customer lounge! Let us make the experience enjoyable for you.

Learn more about the Hank Graff Chevrolet Bay City Service Center:

If you're interested in purchasing a new vehicle, your Pinconning Area Chevrolet Dealer can help with that too! We have Car Loans to help you with financing and and we can also help you save some money with our Discounted Used Cars. Graff Bay City is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706. For more information on Graff Bay City, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our website: www.GraffBayCity.com.

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