Hank Graff Chevrolet - Bay City: Winter

Showing posts with label Winter. Show all posts

Tuesday, February 12, 2019

We Come From the Land of the Ice & Snow: Michigan Winters Through the Ages

BAY CITY, Mich. -- Between crazy snowfall, wicked ice storms, and record-setting subfreezing temperatures; we've had quite a wild winter so far here in Michigan. Although, let's be real, what else could you expect from a state that's literally shaped like an article of winter apparel? All jokes aside, Michigan winters can definitely be some of the toughest in the country, but our history shows that the people who call the Mitten home are even tougher.

Take look at some of these Michigan winters through the ages, and the Michiganders who look so at home in all of that snow!

Here are two children standing in the snow-engulfed streets of Downtown Calumet in 1907. The message in the lower right-hand corner reads: "Plenty snow up here in wintertime". This photo was taken on April 11th. Yeah, sounds about right.

In the early days of baseball, Opening Day was held mid-April. Why the late start? To avoid what you see happening in this photo taken in 1911 when the Detroit Tigers hosted the Chicago White Sox at their original home of Bennet Park to kick off the season. However, the blizzard didn't stop the Tigers from winning 2-0.

A little snow has never kept us Michiganders from getting out and about, as shown in this photo from 1912 where these people are trudging along in their Packard 30 Model UE on Belle Isle. Those of us in the present day at least have the luxury of not having to ride around in conditions like this with the top down, however. Can you imagine?

Due to the immense supply of pine trees and hardwoods throughout the upper and lower peninsulas, Michigan had a booming lumber industry in the 1880s with the first mills being set up in our neighboring Saginaw. These guys were just some of the many lumberjacks of the time who worked from even before sunrise to after dusk, even in our state's unforgiving winter conditions. They even took advantage of it, creating ice-covered roads to transport felled trees out of the forest and to the mills.

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, January 19, 2018

5 Steps to Cleaning and Protecting Your Car this Winter

BAY CITY, Mich. –– Safeguarding your vehicle's exterior and interior from the winter weather in Michigan is an almost impossible task. Snow, ice, slush, and corrosive road salt take a toll on your paint job, interior carpet, and other areas, causing damage, rust, and stains to occur. So while there is no perfect way to avoid the winter other than parking your car in the garage and waiting until spring to take it back out, there are 5 steps you can take to clean and protect your car this winter!

1. Clean the Interior

The first step to protecting your vehicle from the elements this winter is to clean out the inside of your car. Remove any trash, wipe down the steering wheel and dashboard, and vacuum the seat and floor, especially the seat wells, to start your cleaning process off with a 'clean slate'. If you have a leather or vinyl interior, we recommend applying a conditioner guard to protect it from cracking or ripping, as the cold and dry winter air can pull the moisture out of the material. Ideally, the conditioner guard should be applied and allowed to dry before the freezing weather sets in or when the vehicle cabin is at a reasonably warm temperature.

2. Lay Floor Mats Down

Now that the floor and set wells in your vehicle are clean of salt, slush, rocks, and debris tracked in from outside, it's important to install floor mats in your car, especially underneath the driver's seat. Weather Tech Mats are the top product for catching and containing all the snow and such that clings to your boots when you enter a vehicle during the winter. It's important to not allow this snow and slush to soak into your floor carpet because the corrosive road salt in the slush will cause unsightly stains and corrode the metal floor underneath the carpet.

3. Get Car Washes Frequently

It is recommended that you get a car wash every two weeks during the winter, ideally on days when the temperature is 40 degrees or more, or at least above freezing. Car washes will wash and clean your vehicle of road salt and other corrosive substances that will cause rust and paint chipping on the exterior of your vehicle. Try to also get your car washes done during the daylight hours so that your vehicle has time to dry thoroughly in the sunlight and warmer temperatures. Also, make sure to get a car wash that cleans the undercarriage of your vehicle, an area of your car that is often forgotten but is exposed to the most amount of snow, slush, and road salt and therefore the most at risk for rusting.

4. Apply Wax to your Vehicle's Exterior

Wax or some kind of auto-exterior sealant is important to apply to your vehicle to safeguard its paint job this winter. Some car washes include a wax treatment otherwise you can purchase products from most auto supply or major grocery stores. Similar to a car wash, make sure you are applying the wax on a warmer day, at least above 32 degrees, and allow it to dry thoroughly in the sun.

5. Park in the Garage

If possible, make sure to park your vehicle in the garage every night all winter, or at least under some kind of overhang or cover. Parking indoors will keep your vehicle protected from heavy snowfall or sleet as well as the freezing temperatures that will negatively affect your vehicle's internal components such as the battery, belts, hoses, and more. If that's not an option, we recommend purchasing a weatherproof car cover for your vehicle to at least help shield it from the elements.

Follow these 5 steps to clean and protect your car this winter, and have your ride looking like new come springtime. We also want you to stay safe out on the road during the winter months of 2018, so we strongly recommend completing our Winter Car Care maintenance routine to help protect your vehicle's internal components from being damaged or disabled by the cold weather and poor road conditions.

Wednesday, January 17, 2018

9 Michigan Mountains to Visit on Your Next Family Ski Trip

BAY CITY, Mich. –– Spending too much time inside and not being active this winter can begin to take a toll on you emotionally. So why not make use of our state's natural beauty and all the fun to be had during the snowy months? If you're looking for something to do with the whole family, we recommend an adventure to Northern Michigan for a weekend of skiing, snowboarding, and more. Whether you're beginners or experienced skiers, these nine Michigan mountains are worth visiting on your next family ski trip! There's plenty of exciting activities, dining, and nightlife at many of these resorts to partake in as well! Start planning your next winter getaway right now!

Boyne Mountain - Boyne Falls, MI

Perhaps Michigan's most well-known skiing resort, Boyne Mountain offers Michigan's largest indoor water park, Avalanche Bay! spas and salons, 60 downhill runs, seven terrain parks, plenty of trails for cross-country skiing, as well as a zip line course down the backside of the mountain. plenty of incredible restaurants, tubing park,

Boyne Highlands - Harbor Springs, MI

The other Boyne skiing resort, boasting as much fun as Boyne Mountain. There's plenty of skiing and snowboarding, as well as a zip line course, tubing course, snowshoeing trails, horseback rides, and much more.

Shanty Creek - Bellaire, MI & Mancelona, MI

Experience award-winning skiing that is fun for the whole family at Shanty Creek and their two mountains Schuss and Summit. You can also enjoy their exceptional dining options at the resorts or venture out to nearby Traverse City for all sorts of winter activities.

Crystal Mountain - Thompsonville, MI

A more scenic mountain experience you won't find! Crystal Mountain, located near Sleeping Bear Dunes, has four different skiing areas. You can also spend your time fat tire snow biking, ice skating, snowmobiling, and much more!

Nub's Nob - Harbor Springs, MI

Nub's Nob is the perfect family-friendly ski mountain! There are 53 total ski runs with a varying range of difficulty as well as two award-winning terrain parks to take advantage of this winter.

Big Powderhorn Mountain - Bessemer, MI

Skiing in the Upper Peninsula in an incredibly unique and enjoyable experience thanks to the heavy snowfall and rustic scenery. Big Powderhorn Mountain is a massive ski resort, with 253 skiable acres and a run that is one mile long!

Big Snow Resort - Wakefield, MI

Another resort where you can experience two mountains so you won't ever have to ski or snowboard down the same run twice! Indianhead Mountain and Blackjack Mountain at Big Snow Resort in the Upper Peninsula receive significant snowfall and powder for your skiing enjoyment. There are plenty of other activities to do and enjoy including snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and your family can even play on their Yeti Snow Forts!

Pine Mountain Resort - Iron Mountain, MI

A fun and cozy mountain atmosphere up in the U.P. that is perfect for a weekend getaway. Enjoy the skiing and up north air when your visit Pine Mountain!

Marquette Mountain - Marquette, MI

This mountain has it all, including traditional runs, terrain parks, and backcountry skiing! Plus, you'll be just a few miles away from Lake Superior, a breathtaking scene to behold during wintertime.

Visit these 9 Michigan mountains for your next family ski trip to have fun this winter, stay active, and make springtime come a little faster! Before you head out on your trek up north or anywhere else, make sure your vehicle is ready to brave the elements and handle the trip by completing our Winter Car Care maintenance routine. Our service staff will check your tires, battery, and other internal components to ensure they're in top shape and won't be negatively affected or disabled while you're out on the road this time of year. Schedule an appointment at our Graff Chevrolet Bay City Service Center to get your vehicle looked at by our experienced technicians this week!

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.

Sunday, January 7, 2018

9 Winter Driving Tips to Help Keep You Safe

BAY CITY, Mich. –– Driving on snowy and icy roads during can be very dangerous even for an experienced winter driver. The possibility of losing control of your vehicle due to the road conditions is greatly increased, and the freezing temps make any accident or mishap even more perilous. But thankfully, there are ways to mitigate the risks and ensure your well-being out on the road. Try these nine winter driving tips to help keep you safe this time of year.

Clear Off Your Windshield

Before you even start driving, it is extremely important to clean all the snow and ice off of your vehicle's windshield, windows, headlights, and brake lights. Clear visibility while driving is crucial to your safety while driving out on winter roads and to the safety of other drivers. You may often see some trying to drive to work in the morning while looking through a tiny little hole they cleared in the ice on their windshield. Simply put, that is not safe, and you should never do it. Take the time to clear off your windshield and other windows.

Drive Slower

Driving slower is the best way to stay safe on the roads this winter. Your reduced speed allows you to have more time to brake, react to other vehicles, and will lessen the impact of any slipping or sliding.

Allow for More Space Between Vehicles

Allowing for double or even triple the amount of distance you would normally give between you and the vehicle in front of you is important on snowy roads. In fact, the recommended that the normal dry pavement following distance of three to four seconds should be increased to eight to ten seconds in snowy conditions. The added space allows you more time to react to their movements and brake if need be.

Don't Brake Abruptly

Putting your foot down hard on the brake pedal won't help you stop in snowy driving conditions. Instead, if you need to stop, slowly apply the brake. This way your wheels will slow their rotation in a controlled manner before coming to a complete stop. A hard stop will make your tires lose their grip on the road and slip.

Don't Take Sharp Turns

Make slow, wide, and deliberate turns to maintain control of your vehicle in the snow. Sharp or fast turns through intersections or elsewhere can cause your vehicle to fishtail, swinging the back of the car out of control, with the possibility of hitting another vehicle.

Don't Use Cruise Control

Cruise control can be extremely dangerous to use during winter. If you're driving on the highway or just a normal road with cruise control activated and your vehicle slides on some ice, slush, or snow your wheels may wind up off course. The cruise control will then keep you accelerating on your new path potentially sending you off the road, into a ditch, or maybe even into oncoming traffic.

Winter Car Care

The best way to ensure your vehicle is up to the task of winter driving is by completing our Winter Car Care maintenance routine. During freezing temps your vehicle's internal components can become compromised, crack, break, or become disabled. It's also important to get your vehicle's battery, tire pressure and tread, heating, and other components as winter sets in.

Check the Forecast

Keep an eye on the weather channel or other meteorology services for what is headed your way. If possible, avoid driving during snowstorms or in other poor road conditions.

Practice Driving in the Snow

The best way to become a comfortable and skilled winter driver is to practice. Find an empty parking lot with some snow and ice where you can practice turns, braking, and more so that you're prepared for anything out on the road.

Driving on the snow and ice can be nerve-wracking but if you follow our nine winter driving trips to help keep you safe, you'll feel much more confident in your ability to be on the roads this time of year. If you have any additional questions about our Winter Car Care maintenance routine, schedule an appointment at our Graff Chevrolet Bay City Service Center. We'll make sure your vehicle is ready to handle the cold weather. Or, if you're interested in any new 2017 or 2018 Chevrolet models and their advanced safety features, give our friendly sales staff a call. They will answer any questions you may have and can even help you schedule a test drive to check out a new sedan, truck, or SUV in person!

How to Deal with the Post-Holiday Blues

BAY CITY, Mich. –– It's very easy to get down in the dumps once the holidays are over. This time of year, with bills rolling in from all the Christmas gifts you bought, nasty winter weather, and the sun going down at what feels like 5 pm every day, it's likely you're going to start feeling a bit sad and morose. But thankfully, there are plenty of ways to keep yourself feeling happy and bright until springtime blooms. So read on, to learn how to deal with the post-holiday blues!

Find Things to Look Forward To

People often find January and February tough because the holiday season was such a big string of fun and family filled events and get-togethers. Now that they're over though, it can feel like there's not a lot to look forward to until summer or maybe spring break. Mentally it can be helpful to plan trips or events for yourself in the near future, that can give you something to look forward to. So schedule a vacation for sometime in 2018 or even a weekend getaway sometime soon. Or, you can always get tickets to a show, schedule meet-ups with friends, or just find reasons to get out of the house.

Set Some Goals

Maybe you didn't make a New Year's Resolution for 2018, but that doesn't mean you can't set some goals for yourself this year. Start small, and make sure that within your goals there is a way to document your progress. Working out, eating healthier, growing an indoor plant, or other ideas can be great ways to lift your mood. When you see the progress continue to add up, your brain will reward itself and feel a sense of accomplishment.

Declutter Your Life

Messes and clutter can have a negative psychological effect on you, especially this time of year when you're likely stuck inside at home most nights and weekends. Cleaning and organizing your work and living space can really improve your emotions, and leaving you feeling unburdened and ready to start anew. So clean up your desk at work, clear your computer desktop, clean your kitchen, organize your closet, pick up your room, and more to give 2018 a fresh start.

Stay in Contact with Your Loved Ones

You get to see a lot of your friends and family over the holiday season and spend quality time with them. So come the second week of January, it can start feeling a bit lonely as you start back into the grind of your work schedule and see less of your loved ones in person. But there is nothing stopping you from messaging them, calling them, and even using video chat to stay in contact with your loved ones. Don't let a false feeling of isolation keep you from reaching out to people who make you happy and upbeat.

Don't Be Too Hard on Yourself

When you're already feeling down because of the post-holiday and winter blues, it can be easy to overreact to any little that goes wrong or that you mess up, like forgetting your lunch at home or something simple like that. But give yourself a break! You're not going to navigate life perfectly and it's important this time of year to cut yourself some slack.

Change Your Thinking

It can be tough but try to not look at the first few months of the year as something to get through, and instead see them as time to get yourself in shape or develop a new talent, or put in extra time at work to make an impression. Pretend that from now until May you're a caterpillar in its cocoon, developing and working hard to make improvements in your life until you emerge into the warm summer weather as the new you!

Look After Yourself

With dark cold nights that keep you from being as active as usual, it's important that you take care of your health this winter. Make sure get enough sleep, eat well, drink a lot of water, and get plenty of exercise. All of these factors will help improve your wellbeing as well as your mental health. Even going for a short walk during your lunch break to get a little sunshine can have a significant improvement in your mood.

It's important to learn how to deal with the post-holiday blues, as they happen to most people and can really hinder your happiness, relationships, and growth as a person. So try taking the steps listed in this blog to start 2018 off right and keep yourself happy and upbeat for all that the new year has in store for you. We also recommend looking after your vehicle's wellbeing this time of year as well, as the freezing temps and harsh weather can have significant negative effects on it as well! Complete our Winter Car Care maintenance routine to ensure your sedan, truck, or SUV's internal components aren't worn down, broken, or disabled by the cold or poor road conditions this year.

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 22, 2017

Winter Car Care Vehicle Maintenance Tips

BAY CITY, Mich. –– Michigan winters can be tough on us, the roads, and our vehicles. Freezing temperatures, snow, ice, and road salt all take their toll on cars and it's important to prepare your vehicle for the winter. We suggest bringing your vehicle into our Graff Bay City Service Center to get some seasonal maintenance work done like getting your brakes, tires, windshield wipers, and batteries checked and replaced if need be. Getting an oil change this time of year is a great idea as well. Following our Winter Car Care vehicle maintenance tips can help ensure your vehicle will be able to perform in top condition, handle well on the icy roads, and avoid the possibility of breaking down. Read on to learn the importance of taking care of your vehicle this winter!

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

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. You don't want to be the car that slides through an intersection or into a ditch. Follow the link to read more about your brakes.
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.
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 frigid temperatures can have a negative effect on the oil, making it less effective at keeping your engine components from overheating and warping. 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.
Batteries: In general, car batteries normally last around two to three years. However, freezing temperatures can be hard on your battery life and make it more difficult to start your engine in the morning after a cold night. 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.

We hope you consider following our Winter Car Care vehicle maintenance tips, as they will help keep you safe on the road and likely save you money in the long run on costly repairs. If you're still worried about you and your passenger's well being out on the road, we recommend reading up on Chevrolet's new advanced safety features available on most new 2018 Chevy models. Features like the Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist Technology, Forward Safety Awareness, and more can help make driving a much safer endeavor.

Thursday, November 30, 2017

The Best Chevrolet Vehicles for Winter Driving

BAY CITY, Mich. – Michigan winters make for perilous road conditions and can threaten the safety of motorists. The best way to stay in control while driving on slick and icy roads and avoid accidentally sliding through an intersection or into a snowbank is with a dependable vehicle designed weather the elements and perform with the well-being of its passengers in mind. We recommend the best Chevrolet vehicles for winter driving to help you drive safely during the coming months. Continue to reading to learn about just a few of Chevy's remarkable snow-conquering machines.

Suburban

A behemoth SUV with the DNA of a Chevy truck, the Suburban is the ideal choice to go dashing through the snow in this winter. The new 2018 model is powered by a 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 engine that delivers 355 horsepower and 383 lb.-ft of torque so you don't have to worry about being stuck in the snow. It also boasts ample ground clearance and weight of approximately 5,700 lbs, for better results in deep snow and poor winter road conditions.

Tahoe

Ranked the Best Large SUV by U.S. News & World Report, the 2018 Tahoe has the same available power and utility as the larger Suburban, but with more nimble maneuverability. In addition to its functionality on winter roads, the Tahoe's comfortable interior will provide a warm and cozy reprieve from the harsh weather outside. You'll feel extra secure knowing the that all of your advanced Chevrolet safety features such as the Forward Collision Alert and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are working to keep your protected while driving on slick, icy roads.

Silverado

Strong, capable, and ready for action in the most inclement of weather! The 2018 Chevrolet Silverado has 420 horsepower, 460 lb.-ft. of torque, and 12,500 lbs. of best-in-class towing capability thanks to its available 6.2L V8 engine. It's likely you'll be the one who your friends and neighbors call to help tow them out a snowbank. Winter is no match for the Silverado and its legacy of rugged performance and dependability.

Who better to design a truck or SUV that's equipped to handle ice and snow than engineers from Detroit? Conquer the elements with the best Chevrolet vehicles for winter driving! Browse our inventory online and once you find the right vehicle for you, call our friendly sales staff to schedule a test drive. You can also get your current vehicle prepared and ready to stand the freezing temperatures and snowy roads with our Winter Car Care maintenance routine. Either way, safety is our primary concern for our customers and we want your vehicle to be ready to handle the elements.

Thursday, January 19, 2017

10 Healthy Dinner Recipes And One Indulgent Dish For Winter

BAY CITY, Mich. –– It's easy to start slacking on staying healthy during the winter months. With the sun setting early and the cold weather keeping you inside more, you're bound to be less active and eating more unhealthy meals. Lucky for you, we've compiled a list of 10 healthy dinner recipes to help keep you fit, trim, and satisfied. Also, to bribe you into we included one not-so-healthy recipe at the end of the list. So enjoy these yummy, healthy recipes!

Chicken Lettuce Wraps

This recipe is super simple to prepare, fun to eat, and extremely flavorful. Bound to become one of your staple dishes, and will leave you feeling fit!

10 Healthy Dinner Recipes And One Indulgent Dish For Winter

Buffalo-Blue Cheese Chicken Burgers

An uber-tasty recipe that your kids will love! Substitute whole wheat buns for a healthier source of carbs, and try oven-roasted sweet potatoes as a perfect french-fry substitute.

Grilled Fish Tacos

Taco Tuesday can live on! Light, yummy fish tacos with powerful flavor will become a family favorite.

Lemon Pepper Chicken

For not having many spices or ingredients this recipe packs a punch of flavor! Serve over long grain brown rice with a side of veggies.

Butternut Squash Risotto

Our undisputed favorite recipe on this list. Add some chicken for protein and this savory dish will leave you dreaming of taking another bite once your plate is clean.

Turkey Meatloaf

Enjoy all the heartiness of regular meatloaf by substituting turkey into your recipe. We would argue it's even better than the traditional recipe!

Sweet Potato & Black Bean Chili

A perfect warm recipe for cold winter days. This chili is so delicious you won't even realize there's no meat in it!

Turkey Stuffed Peppers

Another simple recipe for when you're in a weekday rush to get dinner done. They're as tasty as they are fun to eat!

Chicken Tikka Masala

Quickly becoming one of our favorite recipes. This easy recipe is a great change-up from the flavor rut you may be stuck in this winter. Serve over long grain brown rice.

Teriyaki Salmon with Zucchini

For salmon fans, this recipe cannot be passed up. Another simple recipe, but one that feels like you're being treated to fine dining!

Super Creamy Mac and Cheese

We are not using the word "super" lightly here. This mac and cheese recipe is the creamiest, cheesiest version you may ever have. Also, and you didn't hear this from us, but it tastes extra amazing if you add crumbled up bacon to it. We recommend going for a run once you wake up from your nap after eating it though.

We encourage you try out the 10 healthy dinner recipes that will help keep you feeling fit this winter, but won't fault you if you just focus on the mac and cheese instead. If you'd like to see more recipes, visit our Pinterest page. Be warned though, we can't vouch for all of our pins as non-indulgent! Also, make sure you're prepared for the drive in the cold weather and icy winter roads by completing your Winter Car Care routine at our Graff Chevrolet Bay City Service Center.

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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Wednesday, January 11, 2017

Winter Car Care & Vehicle Maintenance 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 like road salt, snow, and frigid temperatures. There is also your safety to consider! What happens if your car breaks down, or won't start, exposing you to the elements? What if you slide on the icy roads into a dangerous position? 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, our service section covers 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 and make it more difficult to start your engine in the morning after a cold night. 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. You don't want to be the car that slides through an intersection or into a ditch. 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 frigid temperatures can have a negative effect on the oil, making it less effective at keeping your engine components from overheating and warping. 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 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.

Follow us: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google+, YouTube, & Instagram

Tuesday, January 10, 2017

7 Things to Do Around Michigan This Winter

BAY CITY, Mich. –– It's easy to get down in the dumps during the early months of the year when the sun sets around 5pm as you're driving home from work and freezing cold temperatures make you want to stay inside hiding under a mountain of blankets. However, there are ways to enjoy yourself this season while you're waiting for Summer to come (because we all know Spring doesn't really exist in the mitten state). Experience and enjoy these seven things to do around Michigan this winter.

North American International Auto Show

January 14th-22nd - Detroit, MI
The North American International Auto Show or 'Detroit Auto Show' as most Michiganders call it is the ultimate gear-head experience. Walk around the enormous show rooms at the COBO Center in downtown Detroit to see what your favorite foreign or domestic car brands are unveiling.

Traverse City Chili Cook-Off

January 14th - Traverse City, MI
Enjoy local restaurants competing in chili categories such as 1 Alarm, 2 Alarm, 3 Alarm, White, Vegetarian, Ethnic, and Seafood. Attendees vote for their favorite in each category and their overall favorite for the People's Choice Award.

Meridian Winter Blast

January 20th-22nd - Detroit, MI
This event really is a blast! Located in and around the beautiful Campus Martius Park in downtown Detroit, this event has a unique combination of hip and fun winter events that including ice skating, zip-lining, the Meridian Winter Slide, marshmallow roasting as well as live music and a food truck rally.

Wild Winter Weekends at the Detroit Zoo

January 21st, February 4th - Royal Oak, MI
Experience the magic of the Zoo during the winter! Visit your favorite indoor and outdoor habitats and special activities, zookeeper talks, crafts and much more. Especially their awesome Polar Bear exhibit!

Zehnder's Snowfest

January 25th-30th - Frankenmuth, MI
Enjoy larger-than-life snow sculptures and beautifully detailed ice carvings with additional entertainment for the entire family in the warming tent, a fireworks display, petting zoo and children's activities.

See a game/event at Joe Louis Arena

Detroit, MI
It's the final season of action for the Joe Louis Arena, as it is making way for the new, state-of-the-art Little Caesars Arena in downtown Detroit. This incredible building is filled with history and is worth the price of admission to experience a live event here, sporting or otherwise. We recommend purchasing tickets to the MSU vs. UofM hockey game on February 10th. Tickets are very reasonably priced, and it will give you a chance to show off your school spirit while experiencing this hallowed ground of sporting legend before it is demolished.

Visit Boyne Mountain

Boyne City, MI
It's not just a skier's paradise but a perfect spot for a winter weekend getaway with the whole family. If skiing and snowboarding isn't your thing, you can still enjoy the multiple other amenities and activities that Boyne Mountain has to offer including the Avalanche Bay Indoor Water Park, cross country skiing and snowshoeing trails, horseback trail riding, the tubing park, and a zip line course down the backside of the mountain.

There's also plenty more to do than just those seven things to do around Michigan this winter. You can take in a show or concert at one of the many incredible and historic theaters around the state, visit one of the numerous museums, or just trek out to your local sledding hill. However you do it, find some time to enjoy what winter has to offer in Michigan. Also, make sure you're prepared for the drive to these fun activities and events in the cold weather and icy winter roads by completing your Winter Car Care routine at our Graff Chevrolet Bay City Service Center.

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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Wednesday, February 24, 2016

Fun Winter Crafts for Kids

BAY CITY, Mich. – Michigan is getting a handful of snow this week, which makes it hard to believe that spring is only a few weeks away. Trust us, we’re counting down the days too. With possible snow days for the kids, it’s a good idea to have a few activities to keep them busy. Try out these fun winter crafts for kids as one! Crafting is great because it keeps the kids active and it’s an easy way to spend time with them. Enjoy!

Fun Winter Crafts for Kids

Popsicle Stick Hot Chocolate Mug

Winter Tree Finger Painting

Stone Snowmen

Marshmallow Snowflakes

Paper Plate Snowy Owl

Cotton Ball Penguin

Your kids will have a blast with these winter themed crafts, and we're sure you will too! Looking for a vehicle that can get you through all this snow? Try the 2016 Chevrolet Tahoe. This full-size SUV has all the latest and great safety and technology features. 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.

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, January 27, 2016

6 Comfort Foods That Will Make Your Winter Season Warmer

BAY CITY, Mich. – There’s a ton to do during Michigan’s snowy season like skiing, sledding, and ice-skating, but sometimes it’s nice to just sit at home and relax. On one of the colder nights, put your feet up, grab a good movie, and indulge yourself with some delicious food. This winter you have to try out these 6 comfort foods that will make your winter season warmer.

Baked BBQ Pork Chops

6 Comfort Foods That Will Make Your Winter Season Warmer

Salted Caramel Apple Hand Pies

Chicken Parmesan Baked Pasta

Chocolate Lasagna

Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges

Salisbury Steak Meatballs

Stay in and pig out on these delicious 6 comfort foods all winter long; they’ll keep your belly full and warm. If you’re looking for a new car to keep you warm this winter too, Graff Bay City can help you out! Check out the Chevy Cruze or Chevy Malibu, which are great city cars that can get you where you need to go in any season.

Friday, January 22, 2016

20 Fun Things to Do in the Winter

BAY CITY, Mich. – The cold is here, and so is the snow! Just because it’s cold out though, doesn’t mean you have to be house ridden for the rest of the season. There’s plenty to do in winter here in Michigan, whether it’s outside or inside. To make the best of your time this season, try out these 20 fun things to do in the winter.

20 Fun Things to Do in the Winter

Build an igloo
Cozy up by the fire with a book
Do a snowy photo shoot
Build a snowman
Go skiing or snowboarding
Go sledding
Try ice skating
Try different hot cocoa recipes
Bake some cookies
Volunteer at a humane society
Have a snowball fight
Make snow angles
Go to a hockey game
Ride a snowmobile
Have a movie marathon
Start crafting
Take up a new hobby like knitting
Take a ride on a horse drawn carriage
Plan your spring break
Go snowshoeing

While you’re having fun this winter, don’t forget to take proper care of your vehicle. The harsh weather can be rough on your car, so getting the right maintenance will go a long way. If you need any auto service you can make an appointment at Graff Bay City by going online or giving us a call. 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, January 12, 2016

5 Easy Soups That Will Keep You Warm This Winter

BAY CITY, Mich. – We’re feeling the wrath of the Michigan winter this month with dropping temperatures and large amounts of snow, but we’re no strangers to this. When you’re done building snowmen and participating in your favorite winter pastime, head home and try out these 5 easy soup recipes that will keep you warm this winter!

5 Easy Soups That Will Keep You Warm This Winter

Creamy Potato Soup

Italian Wedding Soup

5 Easy Soups That Will Keep You Warm This Winter

Chinese Noodle Soup

Tuscan Bean Soup

Butternut Squash Soup

Thaw out and stay warm this winter with these deliciously awesome soup recipes this season! Is your vehicle prepared for this winter as well? If not, schedule a service appointment with us online. We’re happy to help you with anything you need 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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Thursday, December 10, 2015

Winter Weather Driving Tips

BAY CITY, Mich.- The first official day of Winter is still over a week away, but we want to prepare you before that bad weather hits! Driving in snow, ice, and freezing rain is never enjoyable, and can be extremely dangerous. So if you have commitments that you have to attend and can't stay home during a winter storm, remember these Winter Weather Driving Tips to stay safe this season!

Winter Weather Driving Tips:

1. Drive slowly since maneuvering on snow-covered roads take much longer than when you are driving on dry pavement. Give yourself extra time to maneuver by slowing down.

2. Again, drive slowly. Everything, including accelerating and decelerating, takes longer in winter weather so to avoid skids and regain traction, accelerate slowly. Also make sure to begin decelerating early since it takes longer to slow down on on snow-covered roads.

3. Rather than giving yourself 3-4 seconds to the car in front of you as you would on dry pavement, increase that distance to 8-10 seconds so that you have extra time should you have to stop or maneuver abruptly.

4. Slamming on your brakes in winter weather can be especially dangerous which it why it's important to drive slowly. But, when you do need to suddenly stop on a snow-covered road, threshold braking is the best method. Just keep the heel of your foot on the floor and apply firm, steady pressure to the brake with the ball of your foot.

5. Hills covered in ice or snow can be difficult to navigate in the winter, since trying to increase your speed as you head uphill can make your wheels spin. Instead, try to get some inertia before you reach the hill and then allow the inertia to carry you up.

6. While you're driving up the hill, avoid stopping if you can since trying to accelerate from a stop while on an incline can be problematic.

If you're looking for a great vehicle that can handle the snow, stop by Graff Bay City today and we can help find one from our new Chevy cars and trucks for sale. They'll keep you safe all year long! Hank Graff Chevy is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706. For more information on Hank Graff Chevrolet, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our websites: www.GraffBayCity.com.