I Love Graff Durand: Graff Chevrolet Durand

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Monday, November 13, 2017

Perfect Thanksgiving Pie Recipes

DURAND, Mich.,–– Let's face it. Thanksgiving is one of the best times of the year because of all the delicious desserts we get to eat, not to mention turkey dinner. Are you in charge of making the pie this year? Don't fret, we've got you covered. Bake a pie that your guests will love this holiday by checking out our list of perfect Thanksgiving pie recipes. Satisfy your sweet tooth cravings:

Classic Apple Pie

Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

You can't go wrong with a classic this year!

S'mores Galette

Cook Time: 25-35 minutes

S'mores in a pie... need we say more?

Pecan Pie

Cook Time: 50 minutes

The pie that screams Thanksgiving.

Cranberry Cheesecake Pie

Cook Time: 50 minutes

For a sweeter taste, this cranberry cheesecake pie is perfect.

Chocolate Banana Cream Pie

Cook Time: 12 minutes

If you're a chocolate lover, this pie will satisfy your taste buds!

Pumpkin Pie

Cook Time: 1 hour

Another classic for the fall season.

Whether you like the classics or are looking to break out of your shell, these perfect Thanksgiving pie recipes will be sure to suit your needs. Your dessert will be a hit among your family and friends. Don't forget to give thanks this holiday to the ones you love. You can also give back to your vehicle that gets you to where you need to be with some routine maintenance. Your car is a valuable investment that deserves the attention it requires. Check out our fall car care tips to prepare for the snowy season ahead!

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.

Wednesday, August 30, 2017

Sneak Peek at the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

DURAND, Mich., – Continuing on its long legacy of dependability, the newest Chevy Silverado 1500 offers drivers a wide array of safety, technology, and performance features. The latest Silverado will enter 2018 with best-in-class V8 horsepower, V8 fuel economy, and available max towing at 12,500 lbs. It's capable, handles impressively for its size, and boast being one of the longest-lasting full-size pickups on the road. Read on for a sneak peek the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500.

The 2018 Silverado 1500's standard and available engines will now feature three fuel-saving technologies including Active Fuel Management™, Direct Injection, and Continuously Variable Valve Timing. This way you can go longer between trips to the pump! Additionally, your new Silverado can come equipped with a 4.3L V6, 5.3L V8, or 6.2L V8 engine with horsepower ranging from 285 to 420. The power and toughness of this pickup don't stop there, the ultra durable truck bed of the new Silverado is built with high-strength roll-formed steel to endure the wear and tear of even the most demanding job site.

The spacious and quiet cabin blends technology seamlessly with comfort and bravado. Controls on the steering wheel can answer hands-free phone calls and navigate the 7-inch (or available 8-inch) Chevrolet MyLink touch-screen display. There is also an available wireless charging pad for smartphones and the truck is compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Plus, you can take advantage of the available built-in 4G LTE Wi-Fi.

The 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 has a number of impressive trim levels including the High Country and LTZ Z71 among others to give each driver the exact features and capability they desire. The new Silverado 1500 truly is a perfect vehicle for any situation, from working on the job site, driving up north for weekend trip up to the lake, or even just your morning commute. If after checking out the sneak peek at the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 you're beginning to imagine yourself in a new 2017 Silverado or want to inquire about the 2018 model, contact our friendly and knowledgeable sales staff. They will be happy to help you find the perfect Silverado to suit your needs. It's also a good time to bring in your current vehicle to the Graff Chevrolet Durand Service Center to get any maintenance you need to be done before the weather starts growing colder.

Tuesday, August 29, 2017

The Importance of Vehicle Filters & When to Replace Them

DURAND, Mich., – The filters in your vehicle are very important components that keep your car running well and should not be neglected. These filters keep all sorts of particles and pollutants from harming or irritating the passengers of the vehicle and its engine. Read on to learn the importance of vehicle filters and when to replace them to ensure your vehicle performs at peak performance.

Fuel Filter

Your fuel filter actually has two functions. For gasoline engines, the fuel filter will remove impurities in the gas and maintain the overall performance and lifespan of the engine. In the case of diesel engines, however, the fuel filter collects any water buildup that occurs in the engine thanks to its bowl-shaped design. You can then remove the water from your diesel engine via a drain plug. Check your vehicle's manufacturer recommendation on when to replace your fuel filter as it varies from model to model, but generally, you should look to replace it every 20,000-40,000 miles.

Oil Filter

When the oil in your engine cycles through the system, it will not only lubricate the internal components of the engine reducing the wear and tear but it will also flush out metal shavings and debris. The oil will carry these metal shavings to the filter, which will filter them out of the oil, therefore keeping them from building up in the engine and blocking any component functions. Your oil filter should be replaced each time you get your oil changed.

Engine Air filter

This particular filter filters out impurities in the air that is brought into the engine for combustion, and this filter helps the combustion process work more effectively and directly affects fuel efficiency. If your engine air filter is clogged up and not performing the combustion process properly both your fuel mpg and engine power will decrease. Ideally, your engine air filter should be changed out once a year.

Cabin Air Filter

This is the air filter that is designed to protect the passengers of the vehicle from allergens, dust, and other harmful particles in the air that is pulled into the cabin from outside. Similar to its engine counterpart, your cabin air filter should be replaced annually as well.

The health your engine, internal components, and you breathing air depends greatly on these vehicle filters and it is crucial to make sure they are still functioning at a high level. Neglecting these filters can run the risk of causing serious damage to your vehicle and limiting its performance. So feel free to ask our knowledgeable and friendly service staff any questions you may about the importance of vehicle filters and when to replace them next time you're in our Graff Chevrolet Durand Service Center to get any maintenance you need to be done. Or, schedule an appointment today to get your filters replace and ensure the longevity of your vehicle.

Friday, August 25, 2017

9 Tips to Help Clean Your Car Before a Road Trip

DURAND, Mich., – After washing your car, either at home or at the local car wash, and vacuuming up the interior, you'll notice there is still a lot to tidy up before your next big road trip. Try using our 9 tips to help clean your car before a road trip to give yourself peace of mind and start your trip off on the right foot. Cleaning the inside and exterior of your vehicle periodically is also just a good thing to do keep up its resale value as well!

9 Tips to Clean Your Car Before a Road Trip

Use a foam paint brush to clean air vents

Squishy foam paint brushes can be used to reach into and help clean your air vents from dust particles and other debris that would otherwise be blown into your face and breathing air. The foam can squeeze through the small vents, and dirt and dust will cling to it, making it an ideal tool for cleaning your air vents and plenty of other areas of the interior of your vehicle.

Remove bug splatter from your windshield and hood with wet dryer sheets

Grossed out by all the bug splatter on your windshield and the hood of your car? It can be tough to scrape and wash all those little guys off, but a simple trick that works amazingly well is to use wet dryer sheets as washcloth to remove them. They'll come right off! Also, if you're planning a trip to Northern Michigan, you may want to use this tip after the trip as well!

Clean your floor mats

Vacuuming only does so much to clean your carpeted floor mats, and they can get pretty gross. A professional auto dealer can clean them properly for you, but why do that when you can clean them at home? Start by taking your floor matts out of the vehicle, spray stain remover on them, and then toss them in the washing machine with laundry detergent. Put the washer settings on gentle, and let it run. When you pull them out, they look as clean as the day you bought the car!

Use a squeegee & water to remove dog hair from seats

There's a better way to remove all of that pesky dog hairs from your seats and interior than vacuuming or using a lint roller. Use a spray bottle of water to spray the surfaces of your seats, and then use a hand squeegee to pull the dog hair up. You'll be amazed on how much better this method is a picking up clingy dogs hairs quickly.

Clean your windshield wipers to improve their capability

Here's another clever trick to clean a vehicle component that will in-turn improve you driving and safety on the road. When your windshield wipers start to smear water across your windshield and leave gunky, slimey streaks its time to clean them off. Simply wipe down your wipers with generous amounts of rubbing alcohol and let them dry. This won't keep your wipers working perfectly forever, but it will extend their lifespan considerably.

Use a thin cloth covering a flathead screwdriver to clean small cracks

There's plenty of smalls cracks and crevices that accumulate dust, dirt, and grime in your vehicle. Unfortunately they're usually very hard to vacuum out or reach with a regular rag. The perfect way to clean clean out those hard to reach places is by covering a flathead screwdriver with a thin cloth and running it through the cracks and crevices. It may take some time to clean all over, but it will make your car look brand new. Q-tips and toothbrushes are also a good alternative!

Clean up crayon, melted wax, and other sticky messes with a clothes iron and newspaper

Seemingly impossible-to-clean-up sticky messes like crayons or melted wax are actually very simple to clean up on virtually any surface. All you need is a clothes iron and some newspaper. Simply turn on the iron and put lay the newspaper over the mess, then apply the iron to the newspaper directly over the spot of the mess and it will heat the residue up until its a liquid and soaks right into the newspaper. Remove the newspaper and voilà, good as new!

Purchase some air fresheners for the long drive

Long car rides can naturally get stuffy and smelly, so it's worth purchasing air fresheners either to hang from your rear view mirror or to plug into your air vents. They will help keep your ride nice and pleasant.

Use fitted sheets on the seats, under dogs and car seats

To keep you young kids and dogs from spilling, making messes, and shedding on your seats, cover the seats with fitted bed sheets to save yourself the clean up!

So if you're heading out of town this weekend, use our 9 tips to help clean your car before a road trip. It will make your trip all the more enjoyable to start out fresh and clean! Additionally, make sure to keep your vehicle running in top shape before your road trip as well by following our Summer Car Care tips or scheduling an appointment at our Graff Chevrolet Durand Service Center to get any maintenance you need done.

Thursday, August 24, 2017

2017 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Competes in America's Longest Off-Road Race

DURAND, Mich., – The 2017 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 competed in America's longest off-road race recently, the Best in the Desert’s General Tire “Vegas to Reno” race presented by FOX. The 550-mile race had 350 entrants participate and the grueling course covers a mix of terrain including deserts and mountain passes as high as 8,000 ft above sea level. The tough and durable 2017 Colorado ZR2 was entered into the race by Hall Racing and driven by Chad Hall, himself.

Hall Racing has a long history of racing with General Motors vehicles and are the winningest family of off-road racers in the legendary Baja 1000. Hall Racing's modifications to the Colorado ZR2 included body-mandated safety items such as a roll cage, a 44-gallon racing fuel tank and racing seats with safety harnesses, and more. The truck still used the stock 3.6L V-6 engine and eight-speed automatic transmission, along with a modified version of ZR2’s Multimatic DSSVTM damper technology. Additionally, this crew cab ZR2's performance in the race served as an ideal testing scenario for Chevy and the rugged ZR2 as well as the standard Colorado.

“The Colorado ZR2 is one of the most capable production platforms we’ve used as a foundation for our racing program,” said Chad Hall. “The base Colorado is strong and robust with the expected advantages of a midsize package. ZR2 adds great technology, like the Multimatic DSSVTM dampers and the front and rear locking differentials that are vital to stock class desert racing.”

The 2017 Chevy Colorado ZR2 was the only stock truck to both compete in and finish the “Vegas to Reno” race, and was named 1st in its class by the Best in the Desert organization. Chad Hall and the Colorado ZR2 crossed the finish line in Carson City, Nevada after completing the course in 18 hours, 50 minutes and 16 seconds. After an impressive showing in this race, the Hall Racing Colorado ZR2 will compete in the Best in the Desert VT Construction “Tonopah 250” race presented by Polaris on October 19-22.

“This truck is a lot tougher than I thought it was going to be,” said Chad Hall. “I clobbered some things on the course that would’ve broken the many of the vehicles we competed with in the past.”

Tough and demanding driving environments are what the Colorado ZR2 is built to handle and the Best in the Desert’s General Tire “Vegas to Reno” race presented by FOX was a perfect place to put it to the test. The 2017 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 competed in America's longest off-road race and demonstrated incredible performance and grit. If you're interested in a 2017 Chevrolet Colorado contact our friendly and knowledgeable sales team to set up a test drive of this rugged mid-size truck. Additionally, make sure to keep your vehicle in top shape this season by following our Summer Car Care tips or scheduling an appointment at our Graff Chevrolet Durand Service Center to get any maintenance you need to be done.

Tuesday, August 22, 2017

Pick of the Week - 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT Extended Cab

DURAND, Mich., –– Our pick of the week - 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT Extended Cab is a rugged full-size pickup with all the features and design to be a capable work truck of family vehicle. This truck's Onyx Black exterior also make it stand out on both back roads and city streets and its 5.3L V8 engine with 285 horsepower leave no doubt of its capability. Visit our dealership today to test drive this awesome Chevy Silverado to experience its power for yourself. It can be yours for just $7,900.

Vehicle Features Include:

OnStar
Heated Seats
Leather Seats
Auto Headlights
Security System
4x4
Power Windows
Power Seats
Power Door Locks
ABS
Fog Lights
Seats Five

Engine: Vortec 5.3L V8 SFI

Transmission: 4-Spd Automatic w/OD
Wheels: 16" x 7" Cast Aluminum

With a comfortable interior, leather seats, and an array of safety features, this 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is an enjoyable ride. This truck gets 14 city/17 hwy and has 135,511 miles on it but is built to last. If you're interested in our pick of the week - 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT Extended Cab give our friendly and knowledgeable sales staff a call and they'll help you schedule a test drive. This powerful and good-looking truck can be yours 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.

Thursday, August 17, 2017

What's New with Chevrolet?

DURAND, Mich., – Chevy has continued a successful 2017 with such recent announcements as unveiling their new 2018 Camaro ZL1 NASCAR Cup Race Car and offering OnStar Family Link to help keep teen drivers safe. Chevy is always striving to innovate and are routinely announcing new available vehicles, features, and promotions to better serve their customers. So find out what's new with Chevrolet!

Chevy Introduces the Tahoe Custom

The Detroit motor brand recently announced that the 2018 Tahoe model will come available in the Custom special edition for customers who want a good looking and extremely capable full-size SUV at a great value. The 2018 Tahoe Custom will offer expected segment-leading 23 mpg highway from its 5.3L V8 engine as well as 355-hp, 112 cubic feet of cargo space, and 6,600 lbs of standard towing capacity. Along with its striking design elements, this special edition full-size SUV will come with a suite of available connectivity, entertainment, and safety technology features such as 4G LTE connectivity with Wi-Fi hotspot, Teen Driver Technology, and more.

The 2018 Chevy Equinox Diesel Offers Expected Segment-Topping 39 MPG HWY

Thanks to its 1.6L turbo-diesel engine, the new 2018 Chevy Equinox Diesel will go much farther between trips to the pump! Chevy expects the diesel mid-size crossover SUV to get a segment-leading 29 mpg hwy, leaving its competitors in the dust. This impressive fuel efficiency also grants the 2018 Equinox Diesel a 577-mile cruising range, which could get you from Durand, MI to Nashville, TN!

2018 Chevy Traverse Starting Price Announced

Chevrolet recently announced pricing for the 2018 Traverse, which will start at $30,875. The new Traverse offers best-in-class maximum cargo space at 98.2 cubic feet, can seat eight passengers, and is loaded up with a number of impressive convenience, comfort, and connectivity features. The new 2018 Chevy Traverse looks to be an incredible ride and the ideal choice for the family vehicle.

Chevy Introduces myChevrolet App for Apple Watch

Ever striving to provide their customers with the latest technology and connectivity features, Chevrolet now has made their myChevrolet app available on Apple Watch. Currently, nearly 1.4 million Chevrolet owners have downloaded the app and use it regularly. The myChevorlet app offers Chevy owners the ability to control your engine, locks, horns, and lights from your Apple Watch as well as the ability to run a vehicle diagnostic report, contact OnStar emergency services, and more. Full connectivity with you vehicle can now literally be at your fingertips with the myChevrolet app!

Keep updated on what's new with Chevrolet and all the new innovations they're announcing. If you're interested in the 2017 Equinox, Traverse, or Tahoe browse our inventory online and contact our friendly and helpful sales staff to schedule a test drive. Additionally, make sure to keep your vehicle in top shape this season by following our Summer Car Care tips or scheduling an appointment at our Graff Chevrolet Durand Service Center to get any maintenance you need to be done.

Sunday, August 13, 2017

Back to School Supplies Checklist

DURAND, Mich., – Summer is sadly coming to a close and it's almost time for your young students to go back to school. Whether they're in high school or starting kindergarten, help your student start the school year off on the right foot by being prepared with all they'll need to excel in the classroom. Use our back to school supplies checklist to make sure you don't forget anything for the first day of school!

Backpack
Athletic Shoes
P.E. Clothes
Pens
Pencils
Pencil Case
Highlighters
Ruler
Paper
Erasers
Paperclips
Notebooks
Trapper Keeper
Post it Notes
Sharpies
White-out
Colored Pencils
Scissors
Index Cards
Glue Sticks
Calculator

Other supplies to consider:

Chapstick
USB Drive
Umbrella or Rain Jacket
Water Bottle
Hand Sanitizer
Travel Packs of Tissues
Vitamins

So make sure to double check our back to school supplies checklist to make sure your student is ready for school to start. You can also get you or your student's vehicle ready for the carpool or morning commute to school by following our Summer Car Care Tips and scheduling an appointment at our Graff Chevrolet Durand Service Center to get any maintenance you need to be done.

Friday, August 11, 2017

Chevrolet Introduces 2018 Camaro ZL1 NASCAR Cup Race Car

DURAND, Mich., – Chevrolet recently made a major announcement and introduction by unveiling the 2018 Camaro ZL1 NASCAR Cup race car. The new Camaro ZL1 will compete in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series and make its debut in February 2018 during Daytona Speedweeks to kick off the 2018 NASCAR season. Powered by a supercharged 90-degree V-8 engine with 650-horsepower and a configuration similar the Cup racing engines, the 2018 Camaro ZL1 joining the Camaro SS in the NASCAR circuits. The Camaro SS has been racing in the NASCAR XFINITY Series since 2013.

Jimmie Johnson, driver of the #48 Lowe’s Chevrolet for Hendrick Motorsports and Seven-time Cup champion, drove the new racing Camaro ZL1 into the reveal event at Chevrolet's headquarters in Detroit.

“The new Camaro ZL1 is a great-looking race car with a lot of heritage behind it, which will make it a big hit with fans,” said Johnson. “And as someone who’s enjoyed the ZL1 on the street, I’m really looking forward to getting this new race car on the track.”

The ZL1 name was originally given to a Chevrolet-developed all-aluminum racing engine in the 1960s. The engine was dominant in the road racing scene, and then in 1969, drove a group of dealers to use Chevrolet’s special-order system to get the ZL1 engine installed in 69 regular-production Camaros. The specially outfitted Camaros then became legendary vehicles and performed incredibly well on the road and the dragstrip.

When designing the new Camaro ZL1 for NASCAR, Chevrolet engineers were tasked with keeping the iconic ZL1 design character while ensuring the aerodynamic performance needed to compete. The engineers employed an array of tools including computational fluid dynamics analysis and reduced-scale and full-scale wind-tunnel testing to design a car that can perform at close to 200 mph. The Camaro ZL1 has a lot to live up to, from its rich heritage to its more recent legacy. Chevrolet drivers have achieved a 70 Cup series wins and a record 30 Cup championships, including Jimmie Johnson in 2016. The Detroit motor brand's drivers also earned a record 39 NASCAR manufacturer titles, including 13 consecutive titles from 2003-2015.

“Chevrolet, Camaro, and ZL1 are all synonymous with winning, both on and off the track,” said Mark Reuss, executive vice president of GM Global Product Development. “We are thrilled to run Camaro in NASCAR next year, with the time-honored and track-tested ZL1 badge, and we’re just as excited for our drivers, teams, fans, and customers.”

So next year during the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series, keep an eye out for the newly introduced 2018 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 on the race track. Chevrolet looks to continue its racing legacy and winning ways with help from the new Camaro ZL1. Make sure to keep your own vehicle in top shape as well, by following our Summer Car Care tips or scheduling an appointment at our Graff Chevrolet Durand Service Center to get any maintenance you need to be done.

Tuesday, August 8, 2017

Pick of the Week - 2009 GMC Sierra 1500 SL Extended Cab

DURAND, Mich., –– Our latest pick of the week - 2009 GMC Sierra 1500 SL Extended Cab, is a heavy duty truck with a striking appearance to match its exceptional power. With a dark crimson metallic exterior, extended cab, and 295 horsepower this 2009 Sierra can get the job done whether you need a work truck, family vehicle, or just an awesome new ride. Drive off in this 2009 GMC Sierra with only 75,760 miles on it for $17,900.

Vehicle Features Include:

OnStar
MP3 Compatible
Audio Input Jack
Auto Headlights
Security System
4x4
Power Windows
Power Door Locks
Stability Control
Traction Control
ABS
Seats Six

Engine: Vortec 4.8L V8 SFI

Transmission: Electronic 4-Speed Automatic w/OD
Wheels: 17" x 7.5" 6-Lug Chrome-Styled Steel

The interior of the 2009 GMC Sierra 1500 is uniquely refined with an array of entertainment and comfort features as dark titanium design elements and ebony bolsters with cloth seat trim. The cabin of this truck is also quite spacious with plenty of room in the back bench seat for additional passengers. With all of it's features and capability, its hard not to imagine yourself driving off in this impressive truck. So stop by our dealership to test drive our pick of the week - 2009 GMC Sierra 1500 SL Extended Cab today!

Friday, August 4, 2017

Chevrolet Offers OnStar Family Link to Help Keep Teen Drivers Safe

DURAND, Mich., – Chevrolet is partnering with OnStar to add another technology feature to Chevy vehicles that will help ensure the safety of young drivers and give their parents peace of mind. The technology, called OnStar Family Link, allows parents to monitor their teen's vehicle location wherever it goes out on the road. It also allows parents to set up text or email alerts to notify them when the vehicle arrives and leaves a destination or travels outside a specified area. So read on to learn more about Chevrolet offering OnStar Family Link to help keep Teen Drivers safe out on the road!

Throughout August, Chevrolet is offering customers three months of free OnStar Family Link service. Owners of 2012 or newer model year Chevy vehicles inside the U.S. with an active OnStar account can sign up for the free trial. Once the trial ends, you can continue the service for $3.99 a month plus tax. You can subscribe for a free trial of OnStar Family Link online.

“The day your children start driving is a dream come true for them, but it can be a nightmare for a concerned parent,” said Luciana Chamberlain, Family Link product marketing manager for Chevrolet. “OnStar Family Link can help minimize a parent’s anxiety by letting them know when their child has arrived at school, left a friend’s house or traveled outside of their comfort zone.”

Coupled with Chevrolet's Teen Driver Technology, the OnStar Family Link can help parents manage and mentor their teen's driving habits even when they're not in the vehicle. Teen Driver works by allowing parents to set radio volume limits, create speed warnings, limit the top speed of the vehicle to 85 mph, and more. Parents can then review the Teen Driver Report Card which tallies all of the information on their child's trips in the vehicle, including distance driven, over-speed warnings, and forward collision alerts among many others. Teen Driver is available on a number of 2017 Chevrolet models, reach out to our friendly sales staff to find out which vehicle with Teen Driver are available at our dealership.

So if you've got a teenager who'll soon be driving on their own or already is, and you want to do everything you can to keep them safe and continue to develop their driving skills, consider using these new technologies. Chevrolet is offering OnStar Family Link to help keep teen drivers safe with a 3-month free subscription starting in August. Take advantage of this special offer and help keep an eye on your young driver out on the road. You can also ensure your new driver's safety by making sure their vehicle is in top condition by following our Summer Car Care tips or scheduling an appointment at our Graff Chevrolet Durand Service Center to get any maintenance you need done.

Thursday, August 3, 2017

5 Signs Your Brakes Need to Be Replaced

DURAND, Mich., – Brakes are some of the most crucial components of your vehicle that the ensure safety of not only you and your passengers but other cars out on the road as well. Yet, brakes are often overlooked in terms of routine maintenance by the average driver, and their repairs and replacement aren't always seen as a priority. Well, we're here to tell you that your brakes and brake pads are some of the most important components in your vehicle and they need to be maintained and inspected regularly. Otherwise, you run the risk of an accident happening or serious and costly component break down. We've compiled a list of 5 signs your brakes need to be replaced to help you tell when it's time to bring in your vehicle to a service center.

How can I tell if my brake pads need replacing?

That is always the big question. You can start by searching for brake pad wear by looking through the spaces between your wheel's spokes. You will see the outside brake pad pressed against a metal rotor, and the pad should be at least 1/4 inch thick. Any less than 1/4 of an inch and you should have your brake pads inspected to see if they need to be replaced.

Typically, you should have your brakes checked about every 5 months or every 5,000 miles. If you drive in stop-and-go traffic a lot or make hard brakes often you should get your brake pads checked even more frequently. You can always ask our technicians to take a look at your brakes the next time you're at a service center for an oil change just to be safe.

Signs your brake components need replacing:

Grinding or Squealing

If, when you brake, you hear a loud metallic sound, it means that your brake pads have worn down completely, and are most likely beyond replacement. The grinding or squealing noise you hear is caused by the two pieces of metal (the disc and the caliper) rubbing together, scratching your rotors and creating an uneven surface. If this happens, your mechanic will likely tell you that the rotors need to be resurfaced or replaced.

Reduced Responsiveness

If your brakes aren't reacting to your foot, are less responsive, or if the brake pedal sinks all the to the floor when you press on it, there may be an air or fluid leak in the braking system. An easy way to check is to look for a small puddle of brake fluid underneath the vehicle when it's parked. Brake fluid has an appearance very similar to fresh motor oil.

Pulling

If you find your vehicle pulling to one side while you're braking, it may be time for a brake adjustment or to get your fluid drained and replaced. When your vehicle pulls during breaking, it's usually a sign that the brake linings are wearing down unevenly or that there is debris or foreign substances in the brake fluid.

Vibration

If you feel a vibration on the brake pedal when you're applying your foot to it, this can either mean that the rotors have become warped or that your wheels are out of alignment. Warped rotors are caused by severe braking for long periods, and the vibration is felt because the brake pads are not able to grab the surface evenly.

Shaking Steering Wheel

Warped or thin brake rotors can also cause your steering wheel to shake and vibrate as well. This is because the rotors aren’t able to disperse the heat. If you’re experiencing this issue, it’s important to have your brakes looked at and repaired so you’re safe on the road.

If you are experiencing any of these 5 signs that your brake pads, rotors, or other brake components are wearing down or need to be replaced, it's very important you get them looked at right away. Our experienced and skilled team at the Graff Chevrolet Durand Service Center can address and fix any issues you may have. The sooner you get these issues taken care of, the better. Putting off these repairs can compound the damage and affect other components in your vehicle making for a costly repair bill. Plus, you're putting yourself and others on the road in danger by driving with compromised braking ability. So schedule an appointment today to ensure that your vehicle is top working order.

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.

Tuesday, August 1, 2017

Pick of the Week - 1990 Chevrolet Corvette

DURAND, Mich., –– This time around, our pick of the week - 1990 Chevrolet Corvette, is a classic sports car in terrific condition. Boasting a unique and striking red exterior, this Corvette is a premium automobile capable of ruling the road. With a tan convertible top and leather interior, there is a real feeling of luxury to this Corvette. It may be aged 27 years, but it's in great shape and only has 56,903 miles on it. Drive off in your dream car for just $11,900!

Engine: 5.7L V8 TBI

Transmission: Manual 5-Speed

This 1990 Chevy Corvette has an aggressive body design and is stylized with Corvette iconography all over the vehicle. This stylish ride is also is powered by 5.7L V8 engine with 250 horsepower. You'll be cruising around the state on clear sunny days with our pick of the week - 1990 Chevrolet Corvette. Visit our dealership to test drive it today!

Thursday, July 20, 2017

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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Hank Graff Chevrolet Durand

At Hank Graff Chevrolet, we are revolutionizing the car buying experience. We are doing this by providing all the transparency and customer service you need, while simultaneously making your purchase experience fun. After all, we believe getting behind the wheel of a new car should be exciting!

When you visit our dealership, you’ll find that our team members enjoy being here. You will hear a lot of laughter, jokes, and genuine enjoyment echo throughout our dealership’s lobby. This fun atmosphere is what keeps customers coming back to our dealership time and time again!