Winter Car Tips to Get Ready for the Cold

BAY CITY, Mich. – Michigan winters are brutal; we all know it. But while winter is hard on us, it can be hard on your car, too. Keeping up with your auto maintenance is a no-brainer for some people, but it’s especially important in the winter. Being stranded on the side of the road when it’s 20 degrees out does not sound like a good time. Use these winter car tips to get ready for the cold and make the season a little easier on you and your vehicle.

• Keep an emergency kit in your car. It’s the absolute best thing you can have in your vehicle in case something happens. Some things that should be in this kit include a flashlight, flares, engine oil, and jumper cables to name a few. Here’s a full list from the DMV: http://bit.ly/1hsqZgT. 

• Check your belts and hoses. Your car’s belts and hoses should be checked when you get a tune-up, but it’s beneficial to check them again when the weather starts getting cold. Harsh temperatures can crack and weaken belts and hoses, and if something happens to them you’re not going anywhere. 

• Replace windshield wipers. Wipers should be replaced every six months just to be safe. Without good wipers, you put other drivers and yourself in danger if you’re driving through a snowstorm. 

• Fill your car with antifreeze. Antifreeze will keep your engine from freezing in cold weather. Antifreeze should always be mixed with water, usually at a 50/50 ratio. Fortunately, most places sell antifreeze already mixed properly with water so you don’t have to measure it out.

• Check your battery. Batteries normally last around three to five years. Winter months make your battery work much harder, so it’s important that you replace yours before it gets too cold.

• Invest in snow tires. We can’t stress this enough. Snow tires help with traction, braking, and driver control. Michigan roads don't usually close down for snow, so having these tires will greatly benefit you.

Use these winter car tips to get ready for the cold and you’ll stay safe and warm with your vehicle all season long. If you need any auto service before the snow hits, stop by our service center near Mt.Morris, MI. We’ll take care of your tires, brakes, and car parts.

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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Auto Tips for Fall & Winter

BAY CITY Mich., - With the official start of Fall this Saturday, we're already feeling the temperature drop. If we're feeling it, our cars are too, which means it's time to review some Auto Tips for Fall & Winter that will keep your ride in tip top shape for those trips to the apple orchard and pumpkin patch!

1. Fix Your Paint:

That small scratch or paint chip will rust right over if you don't fix it before the seasons change.  Sometimes it takes only 30 days for a scratch to begin rusting and salt and cold temperatures only accelerate the process. If you're not sure how to fix it on your own, visit the Graff Chevrolet Bay City Body Shop and we’ll fix it for you!

2. Check Your Tires:

Now is the time to replace worn tires! Fall and Winter can present some tricky driving conditions so make sure your tires have enough traction. You may even want to think about getting snow tires or chains for your vehicle, depending on the weather. We have great Tire Discounts for your Fall & Winter driving! Consider having your tires rotated and brakes checked as well at Graff's Brake Service Center.

3. Have An Emergency Kit:

ALWAYS keep an emergency kit in your car. Inside this kit you should have jumper cables, a warm blanket, gloves, an extra coat, a flashlight with batteries, road flares, water and some type of nutrition bar.  Make sure you have a cell phone that is fully charged and even having a map of the area you’re in would be a good idea too.

4. Make Sure You Have Clear Visibility:

Make sure your windshield wipers are in good working condition and that your windshield fluid is full to prevent visibility issues during a storm. A de-icing spray and a ice scraper are also two staples that you should always have in your car during Fall and Winter.

The weather is already changing so make sure you take the time to put these Auto Tips for Fall & Winter to use to keep your car in great condition and more importantly keep you safe! 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.

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