Halloween Driving Safety Tips

DURAND, Mich., – Everybody loves Halloween and droves of little ghouls and goblins will be out at night for trick-or-treating. Whether you're driving to a spooky costume party or dropping the kids off, make sure to follow these Halloween driving safety tips to keep everyone out of harm's way.

Watch the Vehicles in Front of You

Cars will be stopping intermittently in the street to drop kids off at houses or pick them up. So keep your eyes on the road and maybe drive a little slower. We recommend driving 5 mph below the speed limit in neighborhoods. Also, be wary of passing a stopped vehicle as kids may be exiting abruptly or not in your line of sight.

Use Your Turn Signals

Make sure to use turn signals to communicate your intentions to other drivers. It will make navigating a busy neighborhood much easier for everyone. Neglecting to use your turn signals results in over twice as many accidents as distracted driving (i.e. phones, food, loud music).

No Texting!

Again, we can't reiterate it enough that you should never text and drive, but on Halloween night you especially need to avoid distracting yourself. So put the phone down, and watch the road.

Watch out for Kids

Young, candy crazed kids are apt to run into the street by accident so make sure to keep your eyes open for them. They also may be standing by or on the curb, or in medians. So best to be cautious.

We also recommend turning your headlights on even before sunset. It will help illuminate the street and sidewalks. Some of the kids will undoubtedly be wearing dark costumes and be harder to see. Heck, some even may be dressed as ninjas and therefore even harder to see!

Yield to Munchkins Crossing the Street

Give the right of way to groups of trick-or-treaters at intersections and cross walks. It's stressful enough wrangling a group young kids as it is, so please try to help out the adults who are supervising them.

So please, make sure everyone can enjoy their candy and trick-or-treating by observing our Halloween driving safety tips. They will help to keep the night spooky and safe. 

Additionally, as October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Chevrolet is supporting the fight against breast cancer with number of campaigns for charity that we invite you to participate in. For example, every social media post using the hashtag #IDriveFor, Chevy will donate $5 up to $500,000 to breast cancer research. Last year, Chevy raised nearly $1.6 million to help the cause and we hope to improve on that total in 2016. 

Come see us at 9009 East Lansing Road in 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! For any questions contact us at (989) 288-2657 or visit our website at www.GraffChevyDurand.com! We proudly serve Durand, as well as the surrounding communities of Owosso, Flint, Genesse Charter Township, Swartz Creek, and others.

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10 Things to be Happy About Right Now

DURAND, Mich. – Sometimes you just feel a little blue and you don’t really know why. At Graff Chevrolet in Durand we think it's important to remember that there is always something to be happy about, so we’ve compiled a list of 10 things to be happy about right now. It can be tough to make it through a long work week but hopefully we can remind you that even the little things in life are a reason to smile.

Good food
Does it really even need to be stated? Your favorite meal or snack is always something to be happy about. What’s your comfort food? What’s your cheat snack or favorite restaurant? Indulge yourself and don’t feel bad about it.

Coffee
Need we say more? Sometimes a pick-me-up is just what you need to get through a long afternoon. Whether it’s a five-dollar latte from your favorite café, or a plain cup of joe from the pot, let the caffeine comfort you.

Visiting new places
Know that home will always be there waiting. Even if it’s just a new restaurant around the corner, sometimes it takes leaving your comfort zone to realize what you already have.

Your favorite pen
Something so simple is easy to take for granted. Bask in the glory that is a smooth-writing ball-point and remember all the times you had to use a sub-par writing utensil. 

Dogs
Or cats, whatever does it for you. Animals are great stress relievers and great friends. Do you really want a human to listen to your crazy rants? Dogs are judgment free. (We're not so sure about cats, but like we said, whatever floats your boat.)

That what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger
Seriously, take a second to think about this. You’ve survived everything up until this point, haven’t you? If that’s not something to celebrate then what is?

Nice weather
Whatever “nice” means for you, when your favorite weather rolls around take advantage of it! Maybe that means going for a swim at the lake or building a snowman, either way appreciate it.

Knowing the words to an old song
And unashamedly belting out the lyrics. Go ahead and sing that classic rock song and you be proud about it! On another note, be happy that your memory works well enough to recall the lyrics to your old favorites.

Warm clothes from the dryer
And the smell. The smell of fresh laundry is heavenly. Put on a cozy, clean, warm sweatshirt and it’s game over.

Realizing that there are far better things ahead than any you’ve left behind.
No matter where life takes you keep moving forward and always remember to laugh.

If these 10 things to be happy about right now aren’t cutting it for you, maybe a new car can put a smile on your face. Make your way over to our new car inventory and look at all of our awesome 2016 vehicles. Still can't find what you're looking for? We’ve got tons of used cars for you to check out too. We’d love to help you get into the best vehicle that fits your lifestyle. Let our team at Graff Chevrolet Durand assist you with all of your car buying needs.

Does your current vehicle need some cheering up? Let our ASE certified technicians help you with your vehicle maintenance. You can schedule a service appointment online or call our service center at (989) 288-2657. Our body shop now offers Saturday hours so you can find a time to fit your car maintenance into your busy schedule. We want to keep you and your car happy, so stop by the dealership today!

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 at www.GraffChevyDurand.com!

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Pick of the Week – One Owner 2011 Chevrolet Aveo 1LT

Used Cars for Sale in Durand, MI – Are you in the market for a used car? Consider our selection of one owner used vehicles. This week we’re featuring our pick of the week – one owner 2011 Chevrolet Aveo 1LT. At Graff Chevrolet Durand, we are the King of One Owner Cars, Trucks, and SUVs and we want to put you in an awesome ride! This front-wheel drive car features MP3 capabilities along with an audio input jack, so you can play your favorite music through the premium 6-speaker sound system. It also has OnStar capabilities and side air bags to keep you and your loved ones safe. The 2011 Aveo 1LT is priced at $7,900 with only 33,348 miles. With mpg at 27 city/35 hwy you’ll get further for your dollar. Features include:

• MP3 Compatible
• Audio Input Jack
• Front Bucket Seats
• Premium 6-Speaker Sound System
• OnStar
• Side Air Bags
• 14” Steel Wheels

One Owner 2011 Chevrolet Aveo 1LT

Engine: ECOTEC 1.6 L DOHC 16V 4 Cyl MFI

Transmission: 5-Speed Manual

Interior: Grey

Exterior: Silver Ice Metallic

If you’re looking for a vehicle that has great gas mileage as well as low overall mileage, our pick of the week – one owner 2011 Chevrolet Aveo 1LT is your perfect choice! Come down to the dealership and test-drive this one owner car today! Not sure this is exactly what you’re looking for? Head over to the Used Vehicles section of our website to see what else we have in store! Thinking of buying new instead? Check out our New Vehicle Inventory.

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! Learn more about Hank Graff Chevrolet Durand, or for any questions contact us at (989) 288-2657 or visit our website at www.GraffChevyDurand.com! We proudly serve Durand and the surrounding communities of Flint, Owosso, Swartz Creek, Fenton, and more.

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How to Avoid Traffic During Your Thanksgiving Travels

DURAND, Mich. –– Are you planning on making an across-state or out-of-state trip for turkey this Thanksgiving? If so, you’ll want to know the best times are to travel in order to avoid heavy traffic congestion.

Last year, AAA released an estimate that said over 46 million people were traveling for Thanksgiving, and that number likely won’t go down this November. Before you hit the road for a feast on Turkey Day, make sure you know how to avoid traffic during your Thanksgiving travels using some insightful data compiled by Google last year.

Don’t travel on Wednesday.

The day before Thanksgiving may seem like an optimal time to travel, but that’s exactly why you should avoid making a trip on Wednesday. Most people consider it a great day to head out because they want to finish up at work and still get to their destination before Thanksgiving Day. This results in millions of families hitting the road between 3 and 5 p.m., leading to traffic congestion. If you have to travel on Wednesdays, make your trip earlier or later in the day.

Do travel on Thursday.

It may not seem ideal to travel on Thanksgiving Day, but rest assured it’s the best day to make a trip without running into any traffic. Plus, if you leave early on Thursday you won’t have any problem arriving on time for turkey.

Head home on Sunday.

If not on Friday, many families drive home from their Thanksgiving destinations on Saturday, which Google says can be 40% worse for traffic congestion. If you want to save yourself from a headache, consider staying where you are an extra day and head home on Sunday.

Knowing how to avoid traffic during your Thanksgiving travels is important, but there are other factors involved in having a comfortable trip to your Turkey Day destination.

• Find out what the weather will be like on your trip. Knowing what to expect will help you make decisions in regards to what interstates you take or whether you should expect traffic.
• Plan your route ahead of time so you’re familiar with where construction is taking place or where the busiest roads are, both of which could elongate your travel time.
• Have some sort of towing or roadside assistance contact information you can reference in the event you’re vehicle brakes down.
• Check that your vehicle is ready for the drive. Use our fall driving tips to see what steps you can take to prepare your vehicle, or stop by our Fenton area Chevrolet dealer to find out what auto service your vehicle may be in need of.

We're always finding new ways to help our customers have great driving experiences, and sharing a few tips that could make your Thanksgiving travels safe and comfortable is just one example. Hank Graff Chevrolet Durand is also revolutionizing the car buying experience. We provide all the transparency and customer service you need, while simultaneously making your purchase experience fun! Learn more about Hank Graff Chevrolet Durand, or for any questions contact us at (989) 288-2657 or visit our website at www.GraffChevyDurand.com!

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First 2016 Chevrolet Camaros Produced in Lansing

© General Motors

DURAND, Mich. –– After months of anticipation, Chevrolet produced the first 2016 Camaros in Lansing on Monday, Oct. 26, 2015, in the suitable American colors red, white, and blue.

It’s the first time the Camaro is being produced on U.S. soil since 1992 when General Motors moved production from California to Canada. The three pony cars are of the 100 first Camaros produced for consumers. Until this point, the plant has manufactured pilot Camaros for testing purposes only.

The Camaro’s prodigal return to America is being hailed as a monumental as it has resulted in the ushering in of hundreds of new manufacturing jobs for Michigan’s capital area. After investing $175 million into its Lansing plant, GM hired 450 employees over the summer to hold down the second shift and to sustain production during high demand.

The first 2016 Chevrolet Camaros produced in Lansing will debut the muscle car’s “new ball game,” in the words of Scott Whybrew, GM’s North American manufacturing manager who spoke with USA Today. Whybrew noted the sixth generation Camaro reaches 60 mph in 5.4 seconds and covers a quarter of a mile in just over 12 seconds.

To reach high performance standards, the Camaro 1LT packs a 2.0L 4-cylinder or 3.6L V6 engine, and the 1SS contains a 6.2L V8 engine. Both models are available in coupe and convertible body styles.

The 2016 Camaro hasn’t yet made itself a spectacle at our Chevy dealership near Flint, MI, but you can expect plenty of time to analyze its new design elements and performance enhancements when it arrives in mid-November. We recommend that you stop by in just a few short weeks to take an exhilarating test-drive, or to consider any of the other new Chevy cars we have for sale.

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! Learn more about Hank Graff Chevrolet Durand, or for any questions contact us at (989) 288-2657 or visit our website at www.GraffChevyDurand.com!

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GM Works With LG Corp. to Develop 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV

© General Motors

DURAND, Mich. –– Early in 2015, news broke that General Motors was developing the first long-range and affordable electric vehicle called the Chevrolet Bolt.

The automaker disclosed interest-piquing information claiming the 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV is capable of driving 200 miles on a single electric charge, and has a projected value of $30,000. Now GM is working with LG Corp. to incorporate a number of advanced technologies into the Chevy Bolt, including:

• Electric Drive Motor
• Power Inverter Module (converts DC power to AC for the drive unit)
• On Board Charger
• Electric Climate Control System Compressor
• Battery Cells and Pack
• High Power Distribution Module (manages the flow of high voltage to various components)
• Battery Heater
• Accessory Power Module (maintains low-voltage power delivery to accessories)
• Power Line Communication Module (manages communication between vehicle and a DC charging station)
• Instrument Cluster
• Infotainment System

© General Motors

“Chevrolet needs to be disruptive in order to maintain our leadership position in electrification,” said Mark Reuss, GM executive vice president of Global Product Development, Purchasing and Supply Chain. “By taking the best of our in-house engineering prowess established with the Chevrolet Volt and Spark EV, and combining the experience of the LG Group, we’re able to transform the concept of the industry’s first long range, affordable EV into reality.”

LG Electronics Vehicle Components has invested over $250 million in an engineering and manufacturing facility in Incheon, Korea, to produce the Bolt EV components, according to GM. Meanwhile, production of the 2017 Chevy Bolt will be held at GM’s Orion Township plant in late 2016.

There’s been a great deal of excitement, and even a little criticism over the Bolt name, surrounding GM’s latest innovation with EV technology. But now that GM is working with LG Corp. to develop the 2017 Bolt EV into an even more technologically advanced car than it was imagined to be, we couldn’t possibly anticipate its release more than we do right now. Get ready to see this new Chevy car on the lot at our Chevrolet dealer near Flint, MI, in 2017.

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! Learn more about Hank Graff Chevrolet Durand, or for any questions contact us at (989) 288-2657 or visit our website at www.GraffChevyDurand.com!

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General Motors Is Developing Car Connectivity and Driverless Technology

DURAND, Mich. –– News of automakers paving forays into vehicle technology that will make you feel like you’re entering a future similar to that of "The Jetsons" has left many drivers wondering when companies like General Motors might make their mark with unique technology.

Recent news informs us that General Motors is developing car connectivity and driverless technology it expects will raise its revenue by $350 million by 2018. It seems the automaker has been careful not to jump in headfirst, taking into consideration the desires of its customers before choosing a direction.

For instance, drivers aren’t interested in performance or sports vehicles like the Chevrolet Corvette becoming autonomous, and Chevy has heard them out. It claims cars like these will be the last to be adjusted with futuristic technologies that impede the unique driving experience.

After mastering 4G LTE data connection in its vehicles, GM is developing car connectivity and driverless technology through apps that will make it more knowledgeable about its drivers.  Connectivity apps will help the automaker develop vehicles based around how drivers react to features like automatic braking and hands-free highway driving.

Other convenient services by way of smartphone apps include the ability for drivers to transfer personal preferences from one GM vehicle to another, regardless of nameplate or brand, to tell each vehicle how to function according to their driving style.

In addition to new technology, GM wants to expand its footprint in car sharing. After Chevy recently disclosed it would team up with AutoShare to offer car sharing to university students in Toronto, GM wants to expand that service to other transportation hubs as many of its drivers take interest in more economic and eco-friendly options.

At our Flushing area Chevy dealership, we're looking forward to the outcomes of GM's progress in vehicle technology. Considering its meticulous craftsmanship and careful consideration of direction, we're certain Chevy and other GM brands will lead the future of automotive.

Located at 9009 East Lansing Road Durand, MI 48429, Hank Graff Chevrolet Durand is revolutionizing the car buying experience. We provide all the transparency with our car repair, auto service, and customer service you need, while simultaneously making your purchase experience fun! Learn more about Hank Graff Chevrolet Durand, or for any questions contact us at (989) 288-2657 or visit our website at www.GraffChevyDurand.com!

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5 Fall Car Care Tips for Michigan Drivers

DURAND, Mich. – Ah, Michigan: the state that receives all of nature’s deepest compassion and intensity throughout the highs and lows of all four seasons. Despite our love for spring and summer, and our complicated feelings towards winter (it’s a love-hate thing for all Michiganders), our favorite season at Hank Graff Chevrolet Durand has to be fall. In Mid-Michigan, you get all of the colors, smells, and activities that make autumn the highlight of the year (second behind Christmas). But this crisp, leafy season also constitutes a time of the year when you need to get your vehicle in for a routine maintenance checkup. Check out these 5 fall car care tips for Michigan drivers to ensure you make it through the next three seasons without any major vehicle complications.

Inspect your car battery periodically.

Batteries typically last for three years before corrosion gets the best of them, but on occasion batteries can tank before they reach their life expectancy. With fall, Michigan temperatures can quickly plummet and if your battery isn’t prepared for the cold then you might as well call your boss and tell them you’re not making it to work that day. Come into our Certified Service Center for a battery test and go enjoy a scenic fall drive.

Bring your car in for a cooling system inspection.

There’s nothing more annoying (or more Michigan) than being late for work and realizing your windshield and windows are covered in a glittery layer of frost. You start your car and wait for the defrosters to do the legwork, but nothing happens. You soon realize your heat is defunct and you’re also another ten minutes late to work. Before things cool down this fall, bring your car to our ASE Certified technicians for a cooling system inspection.

Replace your tires or have them rotated.

After a harsh winter, an erratic spring, and a hot summer in Michigan, it’s safe to say your tires take a beating by the time fall arrives. You should have your tires rotated periodically, as well as check their tread to see if they need to be replaced. Our technicians can thoroughly inspect your tires and tell you how much life they have left in them. Plus, if you purchase a new set of tires at Hank Graff Chevrolet Durand you could get back up to $50 or $100 with our tire special.

Have your brakes inspected.

You should have your brakes inspected every 10,000 miles, which is generally the distance your vehicle travels over the course of three or four seasons, making fall the perfect season to check them. If you hear grinding or squeaking noises, or notice any other abnormalities that seem to be due to your brakes, schedule an appointment to bring your vehicle to our service experts.

Make sure your fluids are at the right levels.

Fluids are one of the easiest things to neglect in a vehicle, but they’re vital in determining your vehicle’s lifespan and proper functioning. You should have your oil changed every 3,000–5,000 miles, but you also want to make sure your coolant, transmission, and brake fluids are at the right levels and that there aren’t any line leaks. Our Quick Oil and Tire Center technicians can inspect all of your fluids and make sure their levels are where they should be.

Follow these 5 fall car care tips for Michigan drivers and stop by our dealership near Flushing where our auto service and car repair technicians are dedicated to helping you extend the life of your vehicle purchase. Fall is also a time where driving can get a little dangerous due to high amounts of deer activity. If you find yourself with a damaged vehicle after a car-deer collision, enter our Busted Bumper Buck Pole contest to have your vehicle fixed and potentially win $1,000 if it's the most damaged from a deer collision.

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! Learn more about Hank Graff Chevrolet Durand, or for any questions contact us at (989) 288-2657 or visit our website at www.GraffChevyDurand.com!

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Certified Pre-Owned Chevy Cars for Sale New Lothrup, MI

Certified Pre-Owned cars and trucks for sale New Lothrup, MI – For many, the most important aspects of a vehicle are affordability, fuel economy, design, and technology. If you fall into the category of car shoppers who look for these specifications, this Certified Pre-Owned 2012 Chevrolet Sonic 1LS could be your dream vehicle.

For $10,900, you’ll get a fuel-efficient hatchback that seats five with front-wheel drive and only 22,964 miles. Plus, this Chevy Sonic is equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission that helps you get 26 mpg city and 35 mpg hwy. Additionally, it comes with a list of contemporary features to make your driving experience as enjoyable as it should be in the 21st century, including:

• ABS
• Audio Input Jack
• Auto Headlights
• Front Bucket Seats
• OnStar
• Power Door Locks
• Security System
• Side Air Bags
• Stability Control
• Traction Control

2010 Chevrolet Sonic 1LS

Engine: ECOTEC 1.8L DOHC VVT

Transmission: 5-Speed Manual

Interior: Cloth Seat Trim

Exterior: Crystal Red Tintcoat

With an AutoCheck score of 91, you’ll have a hard time finding a 2010 Chevy Sonic with this level value at the price it is anywhere else. Stop by our New Lothrup area used car dealer for a test-drive, or check out these used Chevys for sale.

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! Learn more about Hank Graff Chevrolet Durand, or for any questions contact us at (989) 288-2657 or visit our website at www.GraffChevyDurand.com!

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