Hank Graff Chevrolet - Bay City: Oil Change

Showing posts with label Oil Change. Show all posts

Thursday, May 31, 2018

10 Tips to Prepare Your Car for Your Summer Road Trip

BAY CITY, Mich. –– Before you head out on a road trip for a fun summer vacation somewhere warm, we highly recommend you inspect your vehicle to see if there is any auto maintenance it needs to be done. Winter and spring can take a pretty serious toll on your vehicle and its internal components, so it's important to have it serviced especially before you subject it to a long drive. There are also other road trip resources to consider bringing as well. So, whether you're heading south with your family or some friends from school, make sure to read up on our 10 tips to prepare your car for your summer road trip!

Get an Oil Change

Getting an oil change before a long road trip is very important. Your motor will be running continually for long stretches of miles (and hours) and if your oil is old it won't do its job effectively, lubricating your engine's internal components and keeping them from warping and doing serious damage.

Create a Roadside Preparedness Kit

To prepare for anything and everything, we recommend creating a roadside preparedness kit. Stock your car with bottled water, road flares, a first aid kit, a fire extinguisher, blankets, jumper cables, and make sure you have a spare tire and jack just in case.

Get Roadside Assistance

If you don’t have roadside assistance through your insurance, consider getting AAA. That way, if your vehicle breaks down while on your trip, you’ll always have someone ready to come to the rescue!

Bring a Map

While it's easy nowadays to rely on your phone's GPS and navigation systems, you may wind up driving through places with bad cell phone signal. If you take the wrong turn, you could wind up way off track and add more time to your trip. So, bring an old-fashioned paper map to ensure you'll always know how to get where you're going!

Plan For Rest Time & Switch Drivers

If you're heading out on a long road trip, plan on taking some to rest time from driving and/or switch drivers frequently. Drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol.

Check Your Fluids

The fluids in your vehicle help keep your internal and external parts clean and running properly. Washer fluid and coolant are easy enough to replenish in your vehicle by picking some up at your local auto parts supplier, or our service technicians can always top off your fluids during your next service appointment at Graff Chevrolet Bay City Service Center. With long hours of driving to your summer destination, your coolant is especially important to help keep your engine from overheating, so make sure you've filled up before you leave for your trip. You don't want to wind up with engine trouble stuck on the side of the road midway to your destination.

Check Your Battery

After winter, it's important to get your battery checked to make sure that the freezing cold weather hasn't reduced its capabilities. Our experienced technicians run a simple diagnostic test to see if it's time to get a new battery.

Do Some Interior Cleaning

Your vehicle will likely get a bit messy during your road trip from food wrappers, receipts, crumbs, and other such debris. So, why not start your trip with a tidy vehicle and do some cleaning. At the very least, take your vehicle to a car wash and make sure to vacuum up all the road salt and debris tracked in during the winter.

Check Your Tire Tread

As one of the most important components of your vehicle, you want to take tire care seriously. Check your vehicle's tire tread to ensure they are in good enough condition to handle a long trip and effectively stop and handle well out on the road. If you're not sure, use the penny test to determine if your tire tread is satisfactory. Place a penny in-between the treads on your tire with Lincoln's head facing down, if the tread doesn't cover the top of his head, it's time for new tires.

Check/Replace Your Wiper Blades

Your wiper blades may be a bit worse for wear coming out of the winter season this year, and ineffective at clearing your windshield properly during rain, sleet, or snow. So before you head out on your summer road trip, it's important to check your windshield wiper blades to see if they need to be replaced. You don't want to get caught driving on the highway during heavy rain and have to pull off because you can't see the road well due to your streaky windshield wipers, adding more time to an already long road trip.

So before heading out on vacation, make sure you've read and completed our list of 10 tips to prepare your car for your summer road trip to ensure your vehicle doesn't encounter any issues far from home! Also, maybe you're looking for a new ride to show off this summer? Browse our online inventory of stylish and capable new 2018 Chevrolet models! Then, schedule a test drive with our friendly sales staff to experience them in person and find the right sedan, SUV, or truck to suit your lifestyle!

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, April 20, 2018

National Car Care Month: Get Your Oil and Important Fluids Checked

National Car Care Month: Learn Why You Should Have Your Oil and Important Fluids Checked

BAY CITY, Mich. -- Oil, coolant, and washer fluid are essential to your vehicle's performance, function, and efficiency. Ensuring that they're regularly checked, flushed, topped off, and changed is integral to car care that will extend your vehicle's life, and springtime is the perfect time to do so. If you're planning on spending a lot of time on the road during the warmer months for summer road trips or weekend getaways, it's even more important to schedule a service appointment to stay safe and make sure your car is running at its best.

During National Car Care Month, Graff Bay City wants you to have your oil and important fluids checked.

WASHER FLUID

Washer fluid works together with your wiper blades to allow you clear visibility through your windshield. Some vehicles have built-in sensors that signal low washer fluid levels on the dashboard, while others do not. Regardless, it's important to get in the habit of checking it yourself so you always have a way to clear the windshield and have an unhindered view of the road ahead. The opening to your vehicle's washer fluid tank can be found under the hood, indicated by a picture of a windshield on the cap. Most tanks will take a whole gallon of washer fluid when completely empty, though when filling it up yourself be sure to pour evenly and slowly

When purchasing washer fluid, be aware that there are concentrated solutions that need to be diluted 50% with water, and those that come already diluted and ready to use. Whichever you choose, make sure it can withstand the temperatures of where you drive. For reference, the label on the bottle will indicate the temperature threshold. If you're unsure about refilling your vehicle's washer fluid yourself, we'll top it off for you.

OIL CHANGE

Oil is an extremely important component of a well-running vehicle, as it lubricates the moving parts of your engine, helps to reduce heat caused by friction, keeps the engine clean, and protects it against wear. Routinely having your oil changed can help you avoid expensive damage in the long-run, as well as enhance the overall longevity of your car. Routine oil changes should be done every 3,000-5,000 miles, or sometimes longer depending on your driving habits and if your vehicle uses synthetic oil. If you're not sure, always consult your owner's manual.

However, if you have any upcoming road trips or other spring and summer activities that will put you on the road more often, stop in for an oil change to ensure your vehicle can handle it and that your engine runs smoothly.

COOLANT

Coolant, also known as antifreeze, is responsible for controlling the temperature of various engine components. It serves a dual purpose of keeping the radiators in your vehicle from freezing or overheating throughout the year. When should you get it changed? We recommend replacing your coolant every two years or 24,000 miles. However, as always, check your owner's manual for the specific needs of your make and model.

If you suspect that your engine may be overheating or detect a sweet smell while driving that might indicate a coolant leak, stop in and our service experts will take a look, and top it off if needed. With warmer temperatures on the way, spring is the perfect time to check your coolant fluid checked to prevent overheating.

Your washer fluid, oil, and coolant all serve a purpose in keeping your car running at its best, but they need your help in order to be able to do their jobs. If you're not sure about checking or changing these fluids yourself, Graff Bay City's friendly team of service specialists will gladly do it for you! Schedule an appointment today!

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.

Saturday, March 31, 2018

Why You Should Choose Graff Bay City for All Your Auto Service Needs

BAY CITY, Mich. –– At Graff Chevrolet in Bay City, MI, we offer a vast array of auto repair and vehicle maintenance services to suit your every auto need. Our well-equipped Service Center is thriving with dedicated auto experts and technicians who are more than happy to help you with whatever service your car, truck, SUV, or crossover, of any make and model, may need. From simple oil changes to brake installation, we'll help get you back on the road safe in no time! Additionally, you can conveniently schedule a service appointment at the Graff Bay City Service Center online to help save yourself time by avoiding having to wait in line. We're dedicated to your satisfaction and safety. There are many reasons that why you can count on our team to take the best care of you, so read on to find out why you should choose Graff Chevrolet Bay City for your auto service needs!

ASE Certified Technicians

Our auto mechanics are ASE certified, ensuring that you will receive only the best service and repairs when you bring your vehicle to our shop. Additionally, our service techs are knowledgeable and friendly and will walk you through any repairs they need to make or will answer any questions you may have to make sure you understand the work that is being done on your vehicle. At Graff Chevrolet Bay City, we aim to create a comfortable atmosphere that can provide quick and high-quality service, so we only hire service technicians who can help provide both.

Two Service Locations

To provide the best auto maintenance service possible to our customers, and to ensure you can receive service whenever your schedule allows, we have two service locations at Graff Bay City. To get your vehicle worked on you can visit the Graff Chevrolet Bay City Service Center located at our dealership or visit our satellite Graff Xpress service station if you need any quick routine maintenance done such as an oil change starting at $24.00. Service is so fast at Graff Xpress, you don't even have to schedule an appointment. Additionally, although we're a Chevrolet dealership, we make repairs on all makes and models, both foreign and domestic! Our service technicians have a lot of experience working with all different makes and models.

Full-Service Collision Center

The Graff Chevrolet Bay City Collision Center is a full-service auto body repair shop where we make our customer’s satisfaction our number one priority. At our Collision Center, we offer free estimates for all makes and models, both foreign and domestic. This includes Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, Ford, Chrysler, Dodge, Pontiac, Honda, Kia, and more. No matter the car or truck you drive, our certified Graff Chevrolet technicians have the experience and skillsets to put your vehicle back together again and looking like it just rolled off the line whether you have minor scratches or dents to serious bodywork that need to be repaired. Additionally, we offer the following services to our customers to ensure complete satisfaction:

Free on the Spot Estimates
In-House Rental/Loaner Fleet
Great Relationships with Insurance Companies
A Lifetime Guarantee on All Repairs

Service Specials

Getting routine maintenance or repairs done on your vehicle doesn't have to break the bank. You can save big on your service fees at Graff Chevrolet Bay City Service Center by taking advantage of our service specials. One example, you can benefit from our Tire Price Match Guarantee to ensure you get a set quality of tires at an affordable rate. Make sure you print the coupon and bring it to our service center when you have an appointment!

Repair Financing

At Graff Chevrolet in Bay City, MI we’re happy to provide you with helpful finance solutions for all of your auto needs, including vehicle service, routine maintenance, and repairs! Whether it's a brake repair service that you planned for or a body collision repair that you didn't expect, vehicle ownership can be expensive. We understand that vehicle maintenance and automotive repair costs can be rough on your wallet and budget, which is why we offer available auto service and repair financing programs at Graff Chevrolet in Bay City, MI.

Additional Benefits & Appointment Scheduling

Scheduling your next service appointment online can make your experience much more stress-free. As an added bonus for our customers, when you schedule appointments online at Graff Chevrolet Bay City and create an account on our site, we provide the following information and reminders to give you the best and most comprehensive service experience in Bay County.

Your Service History
Maintenance Reminders
Personalized Reminders
Dealership News & Specials

So, as you can see, there are plenty of reasons to choose Graff Chevrolet Bay City for all your auto service needs! We take pride in our superior craftsmanship and timely process, because your safety and time is important to us. We want to make your dealership experience seamless, and your satisfaction is a priority to us. We're confident we can get you a great deal on quality auto service in the Bay Area. You can schedule your oil change, tire rotation, brake repair, or battery installation with our helpful and knowledgeable service team online or by giving us a call at (989) 684-4411. We're happy to serve our neighbors in Bay City, Midland, Saginaw, Essexville, Pinconning, Frankenmuth, Birch Run, Zilwaukee, and beyond at our Hank Graff Chevrolet Service Center located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706!

Tuesday, March 13, 2018

Spring Car Care at Graff Bay City

BAY CITY, Mich. – Your safety on the road is our number one priority, so we've compiled a list of helpful tips for Spring Car Care at Graff Bay City. Routine maintenance and the right auto service will keep your vehicle performing its best all season long and prolong its lifespan. Under our service section on the website, you’ll find our new Spring Car Care tips that will keep you safe all season long. Learn about the proper routine maintenance for your wipers, tires, fluids, wheel alignment, and suspension. There’s even a section on spring cleaning for your car! Keeping your vehicle clean will help keep you focused on the road, and ensure the functionality of its various components. Find out more about each topic in the list below. Get ready for spring with our service experts at Graff Bay City!

Spring Car Care at Graff Bay City:

Wipers

Your wiper blades are essential in every season, but especially in the spring. Spring weather brings a lot of rain, and to keep you safe on the road at all times it’s important to have wiper blades that are in good condition. Head on over our spring wiper blade care page to learn about the signs wear and tear. If you’re unsure about your wiper blades feel free to come into our Service Center at Graff Bay City, and we’ll help you find new ones and install them.

Tires

Spring tire care involved checking your treads, rotating your tires, and replacing them as needed. Spring is also a good time to take those winter tires off and replace them with a set of all-season tires. New spring tires will ensure you have the traction you need on rainy roads and always keep you safe. If you’re unsure about your tires’ condition, take a look at our spring tire care page. Our service experts can install, rotate, and inspect your tires today. Schedule your spring service appointment with us online.

Alignment & Suspension

Your alignment and suspension affect your vehicle’s overall performance, but with the right Spring Car Care your ride will always be nice and easy. Your routine spring wheel alignment will keep your vehicle driving straight every ride and your suspension service will keep your ride smooth for miles to come. Take a look at our spring alignment and suspension care page to learn about the signs your vehicle needs to be serviced. Make your spring alignment and suspension appointment today.

Fluids

Your fluids play a huge role in your vehicle’s performance and lifespan. Your spring fluid care includes checking the levels, flushing, changing, and topping them off as needed. Each fluid has a different service schedule, but if you head on over to our spring fluids care page you’ll learn about each fluid’s purpose, the maintenance needed, and what happens if you don’t take care of it properly. If you’re not confident about changing your vehicle’s fluids, feel free to schedule a spring service appointment with us today.

Spring Car Cleaning

Our spring car cleaning page offers you the best tips and tricks to make your vehicle spotless for the season. Having a clean car will keep your eyes on the road and not focused on unnecessary clutter. Plus, the materials that make up your vehicle will stay in better condition longer if they’re clean. At the bottom of our spring car cleaning page, you’ll even find a section that helps you get the salt out of your car mats. Follow our car cleaning steps and your vehicle will be neat and tidy this spring, and plenty of seasons to come!

Our service experts are happy to offer any help you need to keep your car performing its best. If you have any questions about our Spring Car Care or anything else on our website, give us a call at (989) 684-4411. You can also head on over to our service FAQ page for quick answers to your questions. Learning about the routine maintenance your vehicle needs every season will ensure a long life for your vehicle and your safety on the road. Make your spring service appointment online today for your wipers, tires, alignment, suspension, or fluids. You can always expect the best from Graff Bay City. We’re happy to serve the community of Bay City, including our neighbors in Saginaw, Pinconning, and Frankenmuth. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Friday, February 9, 2018

Give Your Car the Love It Deserves on Valentine's Day

BAY CITY, Mich. –– Valentine's Day is for showing our family and friends how much we love them, not just our significant others! Giving your loved ones cards, flowers, chocolates, cute teddy bears, and other gifts is a tradition of the holiday. However, there is one more "person" in your life who you may be unintentionally neglecting on Cupid's holiday, your car! It may seem silly, but your vehicle deserves some attention and affection this February and you can give your car the love it deserves this Valentine's Day with auto service and other gifts!

Floor Mats

Throughout the winter, snow, slush, and mud cling to your boots when you enter your vehicle and wind up on the floor. To help your vehicle stay clean, we recommend purchasing a set of Weather Tech Mats for Valentines Day. These top-of-the-line mats with catch and contain all the snow and debris, keeping it from soaking into your floor's carpet. Road salt in the slush your track in can cause unsightly stains and corrode the metal floor underneath the carpet.

Car Detailing/Car Wash

The same slush, mud, and corrosive road salt that may accidentally get tracked into your car on your boots will also coat and damage the exterior of your vehicle and rust out the undercarriage. Regular car washes and detailing will protect your paint job and maintain the integrity of your vehicles exposed components. So, pamper your vehicle with "spa day" by getting it washed and waxed on Valentines Day!

Oil Change

It is critically important that you don't let your vehicle go more than 3,000–5,000 miles between oil changes. If you neglect to get new oil put into your vehicle, you run the risk of overheating your engine causing major damage by warping the internal components. Bring your vehicle into our Graff Bay City Service Department for an oil change this Valentines Day so that your car, truck, or SUV will be running at top efficiency.

Winter Car Care

Protect your vehicle and its internal components from the freezing temperatures and poor road conditions by completing our Winter Car Care maintenance routine at Graff Bay City. This maintenance includes inspecting and replacing your tires, brakes, battery, and other components to make sure your vehicle handles well on the icy roads and doesn't break down or become disabled out in the cold. Winter Car Care is the automotive equivalent of getting your vehicle a bouquet of flowers and box of chocolates!

Spring Care Care

Once winter comes to an end, which thankfully isn't too far off, completing your Spring Car Care maintenance routine will be important. The toll winter has taken on your vehicle will be significant and to avoid further damage and get your vehicle back in top condition, you should bring it into our service center to get its alignment and suspension adjusted, fluids refilled, windshield wipers replaced, and much more. Get your vehicle ready to shine come springtime!

Graff Bay City Service Coupons

You can save big on necessary repairs or routine maintenance this season by downloading our service coupons off of our website! We've got deals on various service packages which including tire rotation, fluid refills, brake inspection, and much more. The money you save can then go to showering your real Valentine with gifts on February 14th!

So give your car the love it deserves this Valentine's Day with routine maintenance, automotive service, or a car wash! Also, maybe you're looking to spoil your sweetheart with a new ride this Valentine's Day, browse our online inventory to see if have what you're looking for. Then, speak with our friendly sales staff to schedule a test drive to experience it in person. We'll be happy to help you find the perfect vehicle to cruise into springtime in!

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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Thursday, December 28, 2017

How to Start Up Your Car on Winter Mornings

BAY CITY, Mich. –– Waking up to freezing temperatures on winter mornings is no fun to begin with, but add in the potential for not being able to start your car because it's too cold, and they're positively dreadful. Most drivers will warm up their vehicles on chilly mornings, to defrost the windshield and warm up the cabin for their commute. Now, you may have heard that it is bad for your engine to warm your car in the morning. While that's technically not false information, there are also positives to warming up your vehicle that will help it run better and avoid internal damage, so long as it's not warming up for a prolonged period of time. So, allow us to explain further, and walk you through how to start up your car on winter mornings.

Over the course of a winter night, as the temperature drops, a number things happen to your vehicle. The battery in your car begins to produce less current as it grows colder, making it more difficult or impossible to start your vehicle. The engine oil in your car also becomes thicker and doesn't flow as well. Circulating through your engine then becomes difficult for the oil and doesn't allow it to lubricating your engine's internal components as well.

To help mitigate the negative effects the cold weather, we strongly recommend keeping your vehicle parked inside your garage if possible. It that isn't an option, even parking in an open carport or under a large tree will keep your vehicle a few degrees warmer than if it was out in the open, completely subjected to the elements. You may also consider getting a battery heater or engine block heater, as this will help your vehicle be able to start up with relative ease in the morning.

So, to properly start your car on a cold winter morning, follow the routine below:

Turn off all electrical accessories such as the headlights, heater, defroster, etc.
Insert the key into the ignition.
Turn the key to "On" position, turning on the display lights and the fuel pump.
Allow for a minute of time to pass so that the fuel pump can circulate fuel through the engine.
Turn the key fully, to start the vehicle.
You should only allow your vehicle idle and warm up for five minutes. This will allow the oil and fuel to warm up and properly circulate so that no internal damage to the vehicle will occur.

If your engine is cranking slowly and does not turn on, you should take it into an auto service center and have the battery checked, especially if the battery is more than 3 years old. Older batteries can't stand up to freezing temperatures and won't be able to start up your car.

If you have any additional questions on how to start up your car on winter mornings, you can visit the Graff Bay City Service Center to speak with our knowledgeable and friendly service technicians. We also recommend that you complete our Winter Car Care maintenance routine to take care of your vehicle's internal components so they are not compromised, cracked, or disabled by the cold weather. These service fixes will help your vehicle run in top condition all through the winter and help you avoid breaking down on the side of the road in freezing temperatures.

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.

Friday, December 15, 2017

Give Car-Related Christmas Gifts this Season!

BAY CITY, Mich. –– It's the season of giving, and this year, don't just give the typical presents to your friends and family, give them car-related Christmas gifts! Their vehicles deserve a bit of attention this time of year too, especially with the inclement winter weather bearing down on us. Check our list of gift ideas that will satisfy everyone from the biggest car-nut you know to your cousin who never remembers to get their oil changed!

Meguiar's Complete Car Care Kit

Pamper your vehicle and keep it in top condition with this extensive car care kit, including products for car washes, waxing, interior cleaner, and more. We recommend getting your vehicle washed somewhat regularly during the winter as road salt is corrosive and can rust off the paint and metal on your car. So whether you're doing it by hand or heading to the carwash, keep your vehicle clean in 2018!

DBPOWER 600A Peak 18000mAh Portable Car Jump Starter

Without another vehicle around to jump you, traditional jumper cables are practically useless. So why not get a portable jump starter kit that will allow you to restart your car all by yourself! This kit can jumpstart a vehicle with up to a 6.5L gas or 5.2L diesel engine, has a 18,000mAh power rating, has an LED light with 3 modes (high, strobe and SOS) in case needing to signal for emergencies, and is small enough to be stored in your glovebox.

WeatherTech Floor Mats

WeatherTech floor mats are the premier product for keeping the floor of your vehicle clean from any slush, mud, or debris that may get dragged in from outside on your boots. You can shop for the floor mats that are designed exactly for your make, year, and model type.

Tile Mate - Key Finder

For the person who is always misplacing their car keys, get them the world’s best-selling Bluetooth tracker for Christmas. They can then simply put the small tile on their key ring and use the Tile Mate app on their phone to locate it when it's gone missing. As an added bonus, if you have your keys but can't find your phone, simply double press the button on your Tile Mate to make your phone ring, even if it is on silent!

iOttie Easy One Touch 2 Car Mount Universal Phone Holder

Make it easier for your friends or family to discern their navigation directions while they're on the road, by getting them a mounted holder for their mobile phone! It's much safer to have the directions displayed up by your eye level with the road in front of you than to be constantly looking down at your phone to figure out where your next turn is. But make sure they don't get too distracted by it while they're driving, though.

Petego Rear Car Seat Protector

If the person on your Christmas list has a beloved pet that they love bringing with them everywhere, a seat protecter is the perfect way to help them keep their vehicle clean. They'll be so appreciative of the fact that their car seats will now be significantly less hairy from all the fur their dog sheds.

Winter Tires

Especially in Michigan, winter tires are a sound investment this time of year, and will keep you safer on the road in poor weather conditions. Winter tires feature deeper tread depths to reduce snow buildup and unique tread patterns to channel snow and slush. In fact, these tires also have an increased traction in deep snow and on ice so they brake in a quarter of the time of all-season tires.

Oil Change

Gifting someone an oil change this Christmas may not seem like a enticing present, but their car will sure thank you for it! Vehicles should be brought in for an oil change every 3,000–5,000 miles, that way your car, truck, or SUV will run better and you won't have to worry about your engine overheating and warping internal components.

Graff Bay City Service Coupons

The recipient of this Christmas present will save big on any necessary repairs or routine maintenance they need completed season when you give them service coupons to Graff Chevrolet Service Center. Simply download the service coupons off of our website for deals on wiper blades, wheel alignments, and more. You can even get 10% off Chevy and GM apparel such as shirts, hats, and vehicle accessories.

So this year, give your loved ones some Christmas gifts for their car, to help it run better, stay cleaner, and perform like the day they drove it off the lot. Or, if you want, you can always spoil yourself by getting any of these gift ideas for your own ride! Plus, If there's a new vehicle on your Christmas wishlist, browse our online inventory or Special Edition Chevy Vehicles to see if we have what you're looking for. You can then schedule a test drive at our dealership to experience the vehicle in person.

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, 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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Tuesday, November 3, 2015

Black Friday Bash at Graff Bay City

BAY CITY, Mich. – It’s time to start planning your Black Friday shopping strategy! If you're planning on hunting down all of the best deals at the best stores, then add the Black Friday Bash at Graff Bay City to your list. Come out to our dealership on Nov. 27 for incredible savings for you and your vehicle. Check out the different deals going on throughout the day:

7:30–9:30 a.m.

Oil changes as low as $15.95! Don’t miss out on this! All services will be handled on a first-come, first-served basis, so make sure you get here early to find a place in line.

9:30 a.m. to 4p.m.

Get $10 off a Graff Gift Card purchase of $50 or more and $20 off a Graff Gift Card of $100 or more. We know Dad is hard to buy for when it comes to Christmas presents, so why not get him a gift card? He’ll love it!

1–5 p.m.

Take a test-drive and we'll enter you to win 1 of 2 iPads. There’s no purchase necessary, making it a chance you shouldn’t pass up. Think of it as a little Christmas present to yourself!

Remember, these deals are LIMITED TIME ONLY so there’s no way you should pass them up! You can’t beat deals like this, so make sure you put the Black Friday Bash at Graff Bay City at the top of your shopping list.

We look forward to seeing you at our Black Friday Bash on Nov. 27, but if you need any other auto service in the meantime, stop by our service center near Frankenmuth anytime and our certified technicians will replace your vehicle's tires, check its brakes, and handle any other car repairs you need to have taken care of before winter hits.

Hank Graff Chevy is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706 and we can help you find the perfect fall vehicle! 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.