2018 Equinox Standard Surround Vision Technology Helps to Improve Residential Safety

DURAND, Mich., – Backover accidents account for over 15,000 injuries a year, with at least 40% of them occurring in residential areas and a staggering 24% in driveways. Chevrolet knows safety features in your vehicle aren't needed just on the road, but at home, too. The new 2018 Equinox's standard Surround Vision Technology helps to improve residential safety by providing drivers a better view of what's happening around the vehicle through the infotainment display.

Surround Vision technology uses four cameras, stationed on the front, both sides, and back of the 2018 Chevy Equinox, to give viewers a birds-eye view of their vehicle, alongside a Rear View Camera. When the vehicle is put in reverse, the display will show these two views so that drivers don't have to rely on their blind spot and rear view mirror to make sure there's nothing or nobody in the way before backing up.

Using radar technology, Surround Vision will alert drivers of incoming hazards with audio and visual notifications on the display, helping to further reduce the risk of potential backover accidents. Surround Vision Technology can be used with backing out of a driveway, parking spot, or even your own garage to help prevent potentially fatal accidents from occurring.

“The majority of backover incidents are caused by the driver not being able to see their immediate surroundings,” says Rondell Burge, researcher of driver behavior, Chevrolet. “When you hear about backover or frontover incidents involving parents or grandparents and their little ones, your heart sinks. It’s personal and at Chevy we want to help drivers see as much of their environment as possible to help them avoid the unthinkable. That’s where Surround Vision can help.”

The 2018 Equinox comes with a variety of safety features available to consumers, including Rear Seat Reminders, Teen Driver Safety technology, and more. If you are interested in any of the 2018 Equinox's features, take a closer look at the vehicle's features on our in-depth Model Overview page.

Chevy has made surround vision technology available with the new Equinox, Bolt EV, and Traverse to improve residential safety for neighborhoods around the country. You can view the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox and Traverse online in our model showroom to get a closer look at the details and features each vehicle has to offer. If you're interested in giving any of these vehicles a test drive, give us a call or stop by our dealership today! 

Located at 9009 East Lansing Road in Durand, MI 48429, Hank Graff Chevrolet Durand wants to revolutionize your car buying experience. We’ll bring all the transparency and customer satisfaction you need while making the buying experience fun! If you have any questions be sure to contact us at (989) 288-2657 or head over to our website at www.GraffChevyDurand.com! We are proud to serve Durand and the surrounding communities of Owosso, Flint, Genesee Charter Township, Swartz Creek, and Corunna.

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How to Touch Up Your Car This Summer

DURAND, Mich., – Michigan weather is unpredictable. A cold and rainy morning could give way to a muggy and hot summer afternoon in just a few hours' time! The summer is the best time to keep up on any cosmetic repairs and maintenance your vehicle may need. After a harsh winter and rainy spring, your vehicle may have some rust, scratches, and dents on its exterior. Learning how to touch up your car this summer will give you the tips and tricks needed to fix up dents, scratches, and leave your vehicle looking as good as new!

Giving Your Vehicle a Homemade Car Wash

Give your vehicle a thorough cleaning at home with just three simple ingredients! Mixing a gallon of water, half a cup of dish soap, and half a cup of baking soda, you can turn your driveway into a car wash in a matter of minutes! Use a rag or car washing brush, if you have one, to remove dirt, stains, and dust from your vehicle's exterior to improve vision on the road and reduce the chances of rust build up. After washing your vehicle, applying a coat of wax will provide protection from the accumulation of dirt and make rain bead off while you drive.

Removing Scratches

Scratches can be tough to remove, but it's still possible! Purchase an inexpensive scratch repair pen and gently apply it to any scratches across your vehicle to reduce the surface damage. Unfortunately, scratch repair pens only work with surface level scratches, and deeper scratches into the vehicle's exterior will require cosmetic repair from trained professionals. Our helpful and skilled service staff can help with anything you need and will get your vehicle back in top condition in no time.

Repairing Chipped Paint

Repairing chipped paint is a little trickier than removing dents or scratches from your vehicle. It requires more attention to detail and can be costly if left unchecked, as some chipped paint can rust the metal on your vehicle over time. A good rule of thumb is to take it in for repair if the chipped area is brown, rusty, or over the size of a quarter. We can help by providing you with quick, inexpensive service on any chipped paint on your vehicle!

Repairing Your Cracked Windshield

Getting a crack in your windshield can turn an otherwise leisurely drive into a stressful one after you realize you have to get it replaced or repaired. Thankfully, smaller cracks and scratches can be easily repaired! Take your vehicle in for maintenance to get the windshield replaced, it takes practically no time at all. Make sure any chips and cracks in your vehicle's windshield are properly cared for, as cracks that are left unattended to can spread and threaten the structural integrity of the windshield.

Refer to our cosmetic vehicle care tips to further increase and preserve the resale value of your vehicle and make it more visually appealing. If you know how to touch up your car this summer, you'll be able to fix up any unsightly dents, scratches, and cracks to make it look as good as new! For the best possible deal on any maintenance, whether it's cosmetic or routine, utilize our coupons to save some money this summer! Keep up on summer car care tips to keep your vehicle up to speed during the warm months, with maintenance advice to ensure your interior, exterior, and components of your vehicle are all at top efficiency. 

Located at 9009 East Lansing Road in Durand, MI 48429, Hank Graff Chevrolet Durand wants to revolutionize your car buying experience. We’ll bring all the transparency and customer satisfaction you need while making the buying experience fun! If you have any questions be sure to contact us at (989) 288-2657 or head over to our website at www.GraffChevyDurand.com! We are proud to serve Durand and the surrounding communities of Owosso, Flint, Genesee Charter Township, Swartz Creek, and Corunna.

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Delicious Frozen Summer Treats for Kids

DURAND, Mich., – Hot summer days are so much fun for young children while playing outside and being active, but you don't want them to overheat! Lucky for you, there are plenty of easy-to-make and delicious frozen summer treats for kids to keep them cool this season. These homemade treat recipes don't require much to pull off and your kids will love them!

Frozen Fruit Pops

Make a fresh and sweet treat filled with delicious fruit! It's a perfect treat to help cool down that's more healthy than traditional desserts and popsicles. You can make a number of different kinds of homemade popsicles with various ingredients like lemonade or blended fruit, and you can add yogurt to make a creamsicle! 

Ice Cream in a Bag

With only 3 ingredients needed, you and your kids can have a blast making your own delicious ice cream this summer! Plus there's a quick science lesson to be learned about how the making the ice cream actually works to stimulate your children's' minds while on summer vacation.

Frozen Banana Pops

With irresistible flavor, this is another healthier alternative for your kids when they ask for a frozen treat after playing outside. Plus, these Frozen Banana Pops are super simple to make!

Ice Cream Pops

Have a little party and create your own ice cream pops loaded with the candy of your choice for a tasty treat. Your kids will love making these pops almost as much they'll love eating them!

Frozen Strawberry Vanilla Yogurt Bites

Perfect for hot summer days, these refreshing treats are easy to make and healthy! Take them along on a picnic, camping trip, or just dole them out as a quick snack.

Frozen Grape Kebabs

A simple and healthy snack for your kids when they rush inside and start asking for something to eat. Tide them over until their next meal with frozen grape kebabs, which only require toothpicks, grapes, and a freezer to make!

Banana Chocolate Ice Cream

Blend up some frozen bananas with cocoa powder or even some peanut butter to create a delicious ice cream substitute! Plus, there are tons of flavor variations you can try with this healthy frozen treat.

S'mores Popsicles

These take a bit more work to create, but the payoff is sure worth it! Create a yummy dessert item that will taste great and have you feeling like you're sitting around a campfire.

So try these delicious frozen summer treats for kids to help keep your youngsters happy and cool during the warm weather. They'll love how tasty and fun to eat these goodies are! Also, if you're planning on doing any road trips with the family this month, make sure your vehicle is ready for the long drive with our Summer Car Care routine at our Graff Chevrolet Durand Service Center. It's the best way to ensure your vehicle's performance and your personal safety out on the roads this season.

Located at 9009 East Lansing Road in Durand, MI 48429, Hank Graff Chevrolet Durand wants to revolutionize your car buying experience. We’ll bring all the transparency and customer satisfaction you need while making the buying experience fun! If you have any questions be sure to contact us at (989) 288-2657 or head over to our website at www.GraffChevyDurand.com! We are proud to serve Durand and the surrounding communities of Owosso, Flint, Genesee Charter Township, Swartz Creek, and Corunna.

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Easy Ways to Improve Your Car's Gas Mileage

DURAND, Mich., – Tired of costly trips to the pump to repeatedly fill up your gas tank? Thankfully there's a number of quick tips you can start using to improve your vehicle's fuel efficiency. We've put together a list of easy ways to improve your car's gas mileage to help you get from point A to point B with better fuel efficiency! Some of these tips are simple maintenance fixes that we can take care of at our Service Department, and our staff will be more than happy to assist you with anything you may need!

1. Drive Slower & Avoid Rapid Acceleration

While driving fast can be exhilarating, it can also severely cut down on your gas mileage! If you drive at speeds over 65mph on a regular basis, it can cause your gas mileage to drop down by up to 15% of its efficiency! Keeping a consistent and fairly slow speed can help to reduce the likelihood of this occurring. Use your cruise control to maintain a safe speed and maximize the efficiency of your vehicle. Also, avoid rapidly accelerating as it burns gasoline more quickly. Accelerate smoothly and you'll go farther!

2. Check Your Tire Pressure

Keeping your tires properly inflated can improve your driving efficiency by up to 3.3%. While that may not seem like a big number, it makes a huge difference that you'll notice over the long run! Properly inflating your tires to the right size can also help to improve your traction on the road, keeping both you and your passengers much safer. Low tire pressure can increase the resistance of the tires against the road, causing your vehicle to face more friction and robbing it of its efficiency. Check your owner's manual to see the recommended PSI for your tires!

3. Change Your Air Filter

Your air filter protects your engine from clogging from the dust, dirt, and pollen accumulated while driving. Over time, the filter will become excessively clogged from all the debris it is absorbing, making it harder for your engine to suck in air from the filter. Getting your vehicle's air filter replaced once a year will measurably increase your vehicle's mileage, giving it more power on the road to retain fuel and increase your engine's health.

4. Lighten the Load

This may seem like a no-brainer, but keeping your vehicle lighter will make a big different to its fuel efficiency! Sometimes, you may forget to take a few things out of your vehicle from a vacation, and that excess weight can slow you down on the road. Carrying extra luggage or passengers regularly can cause your engine to put more effort in while driving, causing an uptick in fuel usage.

5. Replace Your Gas Cap Seal

Your gas cap seal protects your tank from filling with excess oxygen, and excess oxygen can cause fuel to be burned at a much quicker rate. Over time, your gas cap's seal can degrade, creating openings that allow oxygen to seep into your tank. Getting your gas cap seal replaced can prevent this from occurring, and the repair is typically very inexpensive! Give us a call at our service center for an estimate on pricing and we'll be able to find the best deal to help you!

The best way to save money and maximize fuel efficiency is to have your vehicle regularly looked at! Our Service Center at Graff Durand is home to the free alignment check and tire price match guarantee. Now that you know how to improve your car's gas mileage, you'll be able to get back on the road with some more spending money! From replacement filters to cleaning your vehicle, we hope these handy tips extend your gas tank and keep your summer fun going as long as possible!

Located at 9009 East Lansing Road in Durand, MI 48429, Hank Graff Chevrolet Durand wants to revolutionize your car buying experience. We’ll bring all the transparency and customer satisfaction you need while making the buying experience fun! If you have any questions be sure to contact us at (989) 288-2657 or head over to our website at www.GraffChevyDurand.com! We are proud to serve Durand and the surrounding communities of Owosso, Flint, Genesee Charter Township, Swartz Creek, and Corunna.

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Pick of the Week - 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

DURAND, Mich., –– Our latest pick of the week - 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid boasts dashing and sporty looks, impressive fuel efficiency, and only one previous owner. This hybrid sedan is powered by both a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine and a 34-kilowatt lithium polymer battery electric motor for a combined 206 horsepower. You'll go longer between trips to the pump in this 2012 Sonata, priced at $7,900!

Vehicle Features Include:

• Bluetooth
• MP3 Compatible
• Dual Zone Climate Control
• Steering Wheel Controls
• Satellite Radio
• Audio Input Jack
• Auto Headlights
• Speed Sensing Wipers
• Security System
• Power Windows
• Power Seats
• Power Door Locks
• Side Air Bags
• Stability Control
• Traction Control

Engine: 2.4L Atkinson Cycle 4-Cylinder Hybrid

Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
Wheels: 16 x 6.5J Eco-Spoke Aluminum Alloy

The interior of the 2012 Sonata is impressive and technologically advanced as well. With gray premium cloth and leather seats, this sedan has a dynamic dashboard, excellent comfort and tech features, and plenty of room for passengers. You'll look good, drive far, and enjoy the smooth ride along the way in our pick of the week - 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. Visit our dealership to test drive it today! 

To see this and other new and used vehicles, stop by Graff Chevrolet in Durand, MI and one of our experienced sales staff would be happy to assist you! Additionally, we recommend you take care of your vehicle this season by completing your Summer Car Care routine at our Graff Chevrolet Durand Service Center. It's the best way to ensure your vehicle's performance and your personal safety out on the roads this season.

Located at 9009 East Lansing Road in Durand, MI 48429, Hank Graff Chevrolet Durand wants to revolutionize your car buying experience. We’ll bring all the transparency and customer satisfaction you need while making the buying experience fun! If you have any questions be sure to contact us at (989) 288-2657 or head over to our website at www.GraffChevyDurand.com! We are proud to serve Durand and the surrounding communities of Owosso, Flint, Genesee Charter Township, Swartz Creek, and Corunna.

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Chevy Unveils First Self-Driving Vehicles

DURAND, Mich., –– This summer, General Motors has begun its campaign to launch the automotive world into the future. GM has manufactured and produced 130 self-driving Chevy Bolt EV vehicles in their Orion Assembly Plant in Michigan. Get an exclusive look into the future as Chevy unveils its first self-driving vehicles to the world! The technology may not be available to the public yet, but according to GM, it will be released to the public sooner rather than later! Read on to learn about these unique benefits the self-driving Chevy Bolt EV carries with it!

The self-driving technology in the Chevy Bolt EV is possible in part thanks to LIDAR, a laser radar technology, which helps the vehicle detect its surroundings to ensure the safety of its driver and passengers. Other technology, like cameras, sensors, and radars, will help the vehicle detect any potential hazards at 360 degrees. While this technology will allow the vehicle to drive on its own, it is considered a Level-4 autonomous vehicle. This means that it's able to drive on its own, but still requires an alert driver to sit behind the vehicle in case of emergencies. Drivers can take control during any situation, but the vehicle is able to adapt to most scenarios, including traffic and freeway driving.

GM has made it their goal to become the first car company to mass-produce autonomous vehicles for the public. Last year, they purchased Cruise Automation, a self-driving car software company for $581 million. Since then, they've hired 1,163 engineers and other employees and have been investing aggressively in Cruise Automation's technology. GM will run Cruise Automation like a Silicon Valley startup company, investing almost $150 million quarterly to ensure that this technology is able to be released to the public sooner rather than later.

Additionally, GM has invested $500 million in the ride-hailing app Lyft, and plans to deploy the self-driving Bolt EV through the company's network in the near future. Before they bring this reality into fruition, however, GM has vowed to perfect their self-driving technology. Earlier in the year, they had already produced 50 self-driving vehicles, and now, with 180 to test and manufacture, time and innovation is on their side. 

While the self-driving Chevy Bolt EV isn't available to the public, the Bolt EV and its award winning features are available to purchase today! Browse our inventory to read up on the Bolt EV and other award-winning Chevrolet vehicles to see what we at Graff Durand have to offer you. Get a glimpse of the future as Chevy unveils its first self-driving vehicles! Before you know it, you'll be piloting your very own autonomous vehicle!

Located at 9009 East Lansing Road in Durand, MI 48429, Hank Graff Chevrolet Durand wants to revolutionize your car buying experience. We’ll bring all the transparency and customer satisfaction you need while making the buying experience fun! If you have any questions be sure to contact us at (989) 288-2657 or head over to our website at www.GraffChevyDurand.com! We are proud to serve Durand and the surrounding communities of Owosso, Flint, Genesee Charter Township, Swartz Creek, and Corunna.


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Must-Visit Michigan Destinations This Summer

DURAND, Mich., –– Michigan is full of hidden gems. Whether it's enjoying fun campsites, breathtaking lake views, or bustling little towns up north, the Mitten has everything you could want in a state and more. While most people will be vacationing in popular areas, some of the most beautiful towns in Michigan are often left unvisited. The northern part of Michigan is full of these incredible destinations that will raise your expectations for vacations forever! Take a look at our list of must-visit Michigan destinations this summer to check out some of the Midwest's best kept secrets!

Houghton Lake

If you're looking for high quality fun, Houghton Lake is your answer! As one of Michigan's largest inland lakes, it's full of opportunities for tubing, skiing, water sports, and more! Plus, the surrounding area is full of parks and other lakes for you to enjoy.

Frankfort

Near the very top of the Lower Peninsula, Frankfort is one of Michigan's best hidden treasures. It's a welcome getaway from the hustle and bustle of tourist towns while also containing all the benefits of a northern Michigan tourist town. It's the best of both worlds!

Isle Royale

Located on a remote island cluster near the Canadian border, Isle Royale is the ultimate escape from civilization. It's a car-free paradise full of lush forests, beautiful lakes, and roaming moose and wolves. At 45 miles in length, it's the largest island in Lake Superior!

Caseville

Known for their annual "Cheeseburger Festival", this exciting destination provides a scenic drive that provides the perfect view of the Saginaw Bay and its islands! Throughout the year, there are events, festivals, and plenty of fun for groups of any age! It's worth the journey to make it to one of Michigan's best beaches!

Tawas

From Lake Huron to the Au Sable river, Tawas Bay is one of Michigan's most breathtaking destinations. Enjoy the water on the beautiful bay, shop around at the wide range of stores, and grab a bite at an fun lakeside restaurant! Tawas City, Bay, and East Tawas have everything you're looking for in a vacation spot and more!

Whitefish Township

Whitefish Township, located next to the Whitefish Bay, is a stone's throw away from Ontario. It's easy to navigate due to the Soo Locks, so you'll be able to get where you want very quickly. Plus, Whitefish Point's museum contains the bell from the SS Edmund Fitzgerald, and provides scuba diving opportunities to explore some of the sunken ships underwater!

Port Austin

Sitting at the tip of the "thumb", Port Austin is renowned for the famous Turnip Rock. While many take advantage of the kayaking opportunities to get pictures of the rock formation, there are plenty of hiking trails, shops, beaches, and water sport activities for you to enjoy, too!

Old Mission

The Old Mission Peninsula contains spectacular and breathtaking landscapes and view of Lake Michigan. Lots of people make a trip up to Traverse City each summer, but most don't take the time to drive up the the peninsula. We highly recommend a sunset drive up this beautiful stretch of land.

Paradise

The name speaks for itself: this stunning getaway is a paradise in and of itself. Visit the Tahquamenon Falls, the Shipwreck Museum, and the wide variety of state parks and exciting activities on Lake Superior and the surrounding areas!

Glen Arbor

Northern Michigan's greatest treasure! Known as one of the most beautiful places in the world, Glen Arbor is home to the famous Sleeping Bear Dunes and offers some of the most incredible beachfront in the state. You can also spend a day floating down the Platte River on inner tubes, explore downtown Glen Arbor, and take a trip on the biking and hiking trails. Make this little paradise your second home this year.

Don't miss out the best kept secrets the Mitten has to offer. Check out these must-visit Michigan destinations this summer for first-class fun in your own state! If you're heading out on a road trip, consult our Summer Car Care tips to get your vehicle up to speed! Maximize your fun this summer in the Mitten with these hidden gems and secret destinations! You'll make plenty of memories, have amazing photo opportunities, and you'll be one step closer to fully exploring our beautiful state of Michigan!

Located at 9009 East Lansing Road Durand, MI 48429, Hank Graff Chevrolet Durand is revolutionizing the car buying experience. We provide all the transparency and customer service you need, while simultaneously making your purchase experience fun! We proudly serve Durand and surrounding communities including Owosso, Flint, Swartz Creek, and Genesse Charter Township. Learn more about Hank Graff Chevrolet Durand, or for any questions contact us at (989) 288-2657 or visit our website atwww.GraffChevyDurand.com!

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