Showing posts with label Oil Change. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Oil Change. Show all posts

Monday, November 20, 2017

Prep Your Home and Car for the Cold Weather Ahead

DURAND, Mich.,–– Winter is right around the corner, making everyone anxious for what this cold season will bring to Michigan this year. Whether it is snow or below freezing temperatures, it's best to be prepared for what is to come. Your house and vehicle(s) are valuable investments. They may not be ready for the impact that the cool temps will have on them. That is why we've put together a list of how to prep your home and car for the cold weather ahead. These tips will make your life easier and help you save a few extra bucks in the long run this season:

Prep Your Home and Car for the Cold Weather Ahead

Home
  1. Prep all your plumbing inside and out. Clean out your house's gutters and disconnect/drain all your outside hoses. Shut off your outside water valves, if possible. Keep your cabinet doors open in your kitchen and bathroom(s) during cold spells to allow warm air to circulate around your pipes. Use heat tape around pipes that are prone to freezing, if necessary.
  2. If you have a fireplace, make sure it is ready to go for nice and cozy fires all winter long. Get your chimney inspected and cleaned by a professional. It is also a good idea to have your heating components in your house checked to make certain that warm air will flow freely.
  3. Sealing the leaks around your house will keep the warm air inside. You don't want any cold drafts seeping in. Add weather-stripping around your doors and windows and caulk any gaps that you see. Also replace any worn doorstops. If need-be, install storm windows and doors to ensure every inch of your house is closed off from the outside air.
Prep Your Home and Car for the Cold Weather Ahead

Car
  1. Tire Maintenance: Check your tire pressure. Cold weather can cause your tire's air pressure to decrease. Road conditions aren't ideal in the winter, increasing the chances of getting into an accident. Check your tire tread as well to ensure your vehicle will have enough grip on the road in the snow and slushy/wet conditions this season.
  2. Brake Care: If your brakes aren't in the best condition, you are putting yourself at risk while driving. Ensure your safety on the road by getting your brakes inspected. They may need to be repaired or replaced.
  3. Vehicle Fluids: Oil is a vital component to your car's ability to run properly. Check your oil to make sure it's not low or black and gritty. If it is, you'll want to stop in for an oil change to help last you through the winter. Also make sure to check out your vehicle's other fluids, including coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and washer fluid.
  4. Wiper Blades: Winter weather can make it hard to see clearly through your windshield while driving. Your windshield wipers may experience significant wear and tear from cold temps and ice/snow buildup. Make sure your wipers aren't worn out by checking out our list of signs to look for.
Prep Your Home and Car for the Cold Weather Ahead

Don't be the victim of a frozen house pipe or faulty brakes this winter season. Prep your home and car for the cold weather ahead now before the cool temps and dangerous road conditions begin to take over. You'll be thankful you did. If you are in need of new tires, brakes, an oil change, wiper blades, or any other maintenance, schedule an appointment with our service team. We'll take care of your vehicle needs to make sure you remain safe on the road this winter! Be sure to frequently check out our coupons page to help you save on service.

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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Tuesday, November 7, 2017

How to Make the Most of Your Black Friday This Year

DURAND, Mich.,––Black Friday is considered a public holiday that takes place on the Friday after Thanksgiving. This occasion is especially exciting for those looking to save big on their Christmas shopping. Retailers across the nation will be gearing up to handle the large crowds of bargain hunters on Black Friday, and even some on Thanksgiving Day. If you're planning on participating this year, you can also get geared up and mentally prepared for all the craziness of Black Friday with a few simple tips. Here's how to make the most of your Black Friday this year:

How to Make the Most of Your Black Friday This Year

1. Know Exactly What You Want

This is the most important thing to do in preparation for Black Friday! The big ticket items - mainly electronics, games and consoles, cookware, and kitchen gadgets - are highly sought after and go really quick because they're the most expensive and the most discounted. We recommend making a prioritized list of the items you want for each store you want to attend. It's hard to do, but if you can find everything you want at one store your Black Friday shopping will be much easier!


2. Have a Backup for Each Item

If you've ever been Black Friday shopping, you know that things don't always work out. You don't go early enough, you can't find parking, you can't get to an item quick enough, etc.! It's fairly likely that an item you want won't be available. This is a real bummer, but having a backup for each item on your list can save you a little headache. You can also make a list of backups online on your smartphone, so if your item is sold out in the store, you'll immediately have a solution in the palm of your hand.

3. Have a List You Can Check Off

There are so many discounts that you could shop on Black Friday for almost anyone on your list. If you're shopping for more than 3 people, it's handy to have a physical list in your pocket when you go out shopping. Each time you pick up an item or make a purchase, cross it off the list. This way, through all the chaos, you'll be able to know what's left and what you've already accomplished without having to scramble through your car, shopping bags, or cart.

4. Plan for Parking & Traffic 

People go a little nuts for a good deal on Black Friday. Many people have had Thanksgiving dinner with family and will be traveling on the road, while others are rushing around in attempts to get to their shopping destination as soon as possible. Traffic and parking can be rough because shoppers are in such a rush and aren't paying attention to others around them. Plan for this craziness by being early, taking it easy on the road, and being aware of your surroundings.


5. Take Care of Yourself First! 

Make sure you get plenty of sleep before heading out, or if you choose to go after Thanksgiving dinner, have some caffeine at the ready. This will help you keep your focus on what's happening around you. Avoid being hangry (hungry/angry) and eat a proper breakfast or at least a small snack to keep you satisfied. Nothing is worse than trying to fight a crowd on an empty stomach! We also recommend bringing an on-the-go drink so you can stay hydrated and happy throughout all your shopping.
How to Make the Most of Your Black Friday This Year

6. Go Shopping Online & Avoid the Crowds 

If going out on Black Friday sounds like too much of a nightmare, or the image above simply gives you anxiety, you can always choose to do your shopping online and avoid the crowds! Try giants like Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and Target for great deals online. Just like shopping physical retail, have a plan in mind, have your browser windows open and ready, and make your biggest purchases first.


Whether you choose to brave the craziness of Black Friday out on the road OR choose to do your shopping online, your safety is our number one priority! We can help you keep your car in great shape so you can avoid any mishaps while you're doing your Holiday shopping and preparation. Stop by for an oil change, winter tire installation, brake inspection, and any other winter car care maintenance services you need this season.

We're also proud to offer a well-equipped Collision Center and experienced technicians that are able to help you complete and body work you might need done. If you were unfortunately involved in an accident with a deer or buck this fall, schedule an estimate and get entered to win $1,000 in our Busted Bumper Buck Pole contest, ending December 30th.


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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Thursday, September 14, 2017

How to Check Your Vehicle's Fluids

DURAND, Mich., –– Want to protect your vehicle from breakdowns, accidents, and costly repairs? Checking up on your vehicle's fluids at least once a month will help to reduce repair costs, improve your safety on the road, and protect your investment from potential damage. Learn how to check your vehicle's fluids to keep it running at peak efficiency. Follow these quick and easy steps!

How to Check Your Wiper Fluid


How to Check Your Vehicle's Fluids

While it may not directly affect your vehicle's performance, your wiper fluid helps to improve your visibility on the road when you're driving. You'll use up your wiper fluid over time from cleaning your windshield. If you notice that your wiper fluid level is lower than normal, pop the hood of your vehicle and locate your wiper fluid reservoir (look for the "Washer Fluid Only" label). Locate the "full" label on your wiper fluid reservoir, and fill the tank until it reaches that mark!

How to Check Your Oil


How to Check Your Vehicle's Fluids

Your engine oil is one of the most important fluids in your vehicle. It lubricates your engine's components, which reduces your engine's heat and prevents parts from rubbing against each other and causing damage. Typically, you should have your engine oil replaced every 3,000-5,000 miles, or whenever your vehicle owner's manual tells you to do so. Checking your oil only takes a few steps and should be done only after you allow your vehicle to cool down for an hour. Pop the hood of your engine and follow these directions to check your oil:

  1. After popping the hood, look for your engine oil dipstick (it should look similar to the image above). Put your finger through the loop and pull the dipstick out of your engine.
  2. Wipe the dipstick off on a paper towel or rag to make sure you can get a clean reading.
  3. Reinsert the dipstick and remove it again to read the oil level. There should be labels on the dipstick indicating whether you're at the maximum or minimum oil level. If you're below the minimum level, bring your vehicle in for an oil change!

How to Check Your Coolant


How to Check Your Vehicle's Fluids

You should check your coolant level as well to make sure it's at its designated amount. This fluid is what keeps the radiators from freezing or overheating. Before you check your coolant, make sure your engine has cooled down or you could be sprayed by scalding water! Use your vehicle owner's manual to locate your coolant reservoir. It should look similar to the image above. Your coolant should have maximum and minimum levels similar to other reservoirs in your engine. Get your coolant refilled right away if it's below the minimum level!

Keeping your coolant level high reduces your engine's heat and helps to regulate internal temperatures in your vehicle. You should have your coolant levels refilled every 30,000 miles, or whenever your vehicle owner's manual tells you to do so.

How to Check Your Power Steering Fluid


How to Check Your Vehicle's Fluids

Your power steering fluid helps to transmit power from your steering wheel to your vehicle's engines to give you smoother and easier steering on the road. If you want to check your power steering fluid, look for a reservoir similar to the one above (it should have a power steering fluid label on the cap). The labels on the exterior of the reservoir will have two sets of lines, one for a hot engine and one for a cold engine. Consult your vehicle owner's manual if you aren't sure what type of engine your vehicle has. If you need your power steering refilled, bring your vehicle in for service right away!

How to Check Your Brake Fluid


How to Check Your Vehicle's Fluids

Your brake fluid helps to transfer power from your brake pedal to your brakes, allowing your vehicle to slow to a stop whenever you need it to. If your brake fluid is below the minimum level, you may encounter trouble while you brake as it may require more force. To check your brake fluid, you must first locate your brake fluid master cylinder reservoir. It should be close to your brake pedal, but if you can't find it, consult your vehicle owner's manual. Like other reservoirs, it should have a "full" and "empty" indicator on its exterior. If it's below the "empty" label, schedule a service appointment with us!

Checking your fluids at least once a month will help you to extend the life of your vehicle, reduce maintenance costs, and improve your safety on the road. Now that you know how to check your vehicle's fluids, you'll be able to determine whether or not you need to have important reservoirs on your vehicle filled. If you need your oil changed, brake fluid replaced, or other service, give us a call or schedule an appointment online right away! Consult our routine maintenance FAQ if you have any questions on power steering, coolant, or other important components in your 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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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.

The Importance of Vehicle Filters & When to Replace Them

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.

The Importance of Vehicle Filters & When to Replace Them

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.

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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Thursday, December 31, 2015

myChevrolet App Upgrade to Enhance User Experience

myChevrolet App Upgrade to Enhance User Experience


DURAND, Mich. –– The myChevrolet app has made it convenient for Chevrolet drivers to schedule service and contact road assistance; however, the app will be receiving an upgrade that will premier at CES 2016. The myChevrolet app upgrade will enhance user experience for Chevrolet owners.

This upgrade will make it convenient for drivers to control and manage their vehicle with the combination of myChevrolet, OnStar RemoteLink app services. The new customizable user experience will serve as a platform of growth for future mobile services.

“The myChevrolet app will be the most comprehensive vehicle app available – and will support the ownership experience over the life of the vehicle,” said Paul Edwards, vice president, Chevrolet marketing. “By integrating OnStar RemoteLink features into the myChevrolet app, we’re creating a one-stop-app for owners to manage their vehicle with one user profile and unified log-in.”

With the upgrade, users of will be able to:

  • Access roadside assistance
  • Manage Wi-Fi hot spot and data plan
  • Unlock doors
  • Remote start
  • Send directions from phone to navigation system
  • Activate lights and horn
  • Access owner's manual
  • Schedule maintenance
  • See vehicle diagnostics like fuel range, oil life, and tire pressure
Users will also be able to customize the home screen of the app by organizing tabs to their preference.The upgrade of the app is to enhance user experience and is part of an ultimate goal of the Chevrolet Owner Center to make vehicle management and ownership a seamless experience. 

The app will be available to select 2010 and newer Chevrolet vehicles in the United States and Canada. For full access of features in the app, users will need to activate their OnStar account (for more information on plans, click here: http://bit.ly/1VsouNV).

We love Chevrolet vehicles for their connectivity and ease of use. If you're looking for a vehicle with this type of technology, we'd love to show you some of our used cars and used trucks at our dealership. We can also help you with any auto service, like oil changes, to help keep your car running great into 2016 and beyond. 

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 atwww.GraffChevyDurand.com!

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Thursday, December 17, 2015

Unique and Easy Holiday Gift Wrapping Ideas

DURAND, Mich. ––We have officially entered the single digits in the countdown to Christmas (8 days to be exact). If you haven't finished your shopping, you're not alone. If you have finished your shopping, we commend you; however, there's still wrapping left to be done. These unique and easy holiday gift wrapping ideas all use brown paper and can be easily customized and recycled afterwards. 

Unique and Easy Holiday Gift Wrapping Ideas

Unique and Easy Holiday Gift Wrapping Ideas
Brown paper  plus doilies and stamped names make for a vintage feel.

Unique and Easy Holiday Gift Wrapping Ideas
Brown paper or plain cardboard boxes, plus the ever popular Washi tape is bright and fun!

Unique and Easy Holiday Gift Wrapping Ideas
Brown paper plus colored craft paper. You can get creative by folding shapes to make them 3-D.

Unique and Easy Holiday Gift Wrapping Ideas
Brown paper plus ribbon and stamps is a cute and simple way to customize.

Unique and Easy Holiday Gift Wrapping Ideas
Brown paper plus paint splatter. Pick whatever color paint you desire and get messy with it!

Unique and Easy Holiday Gift Wrapping Ideas
Brown paper plus photos look artsy and sophisticated. 

Unique and Easy Holiday Gift Wrapping Ideas
Brown paper plus various wrapping paper plus ribbon and tags. These are fun and festive and help you use up any old wrapping paper you have lying around.

Unique and Easy Holiday Gift Wrapping Ideas
Brown paper plus sharpie. There's tons of room for different looks with a blank canvas!

Unique and Easy Holiday Gift Wrapping Ideas
Brown paper plus ribbon. Ribbon wrapping will look awesome any way you choose to do it.

Hopefully these ideas will kickstart you into being the bell of the gift wrapping ball. Any method will impress even your most artsy relative. Shopping for a gift that won't fit under the tree? Let us help you find the perfect used car or used truck! If you're in need of any auto service, like an oil change, before traveling this Christmas stop by our Chevrolet dealership. Also, make sure to check out our for safe holiday driving and parking tips before you take off. 

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 atwww.GraffChevyDurand.com!

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Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Safe Holiday Driving and Parking Tips

Safe Holiday Driving and Parking Tips

DURAND, Mich. –– It's a crazy time of the year when the parking lots and roads are flooded with Christmas shoppers and holiday travelers. Stress and anxiety can, unfortunately, take over during the holidays, which leads to distraction, anger, and ultimately, accidents. While it's not always easy to stay calm, you can practice being alert with these safe holiday driving and parking tips.


Defensive Driving

  • Protection of you and your passengers should start happening before you even get in the vehicle. Weather, road, and traffic conditions can be accessed from your smart phone and will prepare you for what's ahead. If there's inclement weather or if you're taking a long trip, have the proper supplies already in your car. Plan a "B" route if necessary. 
  • Be alert with your eyes by scanning mirrors and the road ahead regularly (every three to five seconds is recommended) so you're aware of what's happening and can prepare. 
  • Always give the correct right of way to other vehicles, but be prepared for unexpected changes. 
  • Keep a safe distance between you and other drivers. This also means giving yourself an ample amount of time to slow down. 
  • Use your turn signals properly and give enough time for other drivers to notice so they can prepare. 

Proper Parking

  • AAA recommends pulling through or backing into a parking spot so that the front end of your vehicle faces traffic. This makes it easier to see what's coming and allows for a quicker, smoother exit. 
  • Always double- and triple-check your mirrors and blind spots for pedestrians, carts, and other motorists. 
  • Take it slow when exiting and entering so you can easily stop for unexpected occasions. Racing around in a parking rage won't do any good. If you're capable of doing so, parking further away and walking a little further may make your process easier. 
Holiday travel will reach a 14-year peak this year, as AAA projects nearly 3.2 million people from Michigan plan to travel this season. Lower gas prices will continue to be lower through the holidays which may make for heavier traffic. Hopefully these safe holiday driving and parking tips are easy to follow, even with the holiday stress. Even if you're just running to the grocery store, be alert and responsive to other drivers and pedestrians. 

You can make sure your car is ready for the road and winter weather with these tips. Should you need any auto service, like an oil change, before holiday travel, stop by our dealership and we'll make sure you're good to go. We care about your safety, so please take it slow, stay off your phone, and never drink and drive! 

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 atwww.GraffChevyDurand.com!

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Thursday, December 10, 2015

Fun DIY Christmas Ornaments

DURAND, Mich. –– 'Tis the season for crafting! Options for Christmas crafts are endless, but these fun DIY Christmas Ornaments involve no holiday weight gain, and make great homemade gifts! Craft these ornaments by yourself, or with the family for a fun holiday activity to get in the spirit of Christmas.

Fun DIY Christmas Ornaments
A mini version of a Christmas wreath using easy to find craft materials. These Christmas Wreath Ornaments come together quick! 

Fun DIY Christmas Ornaments
A classic DIY ornament, these Cinnamon Ornaments double as an air freshener. These can be made in different shapes and decorated a million different ways. 

Fun DIY Christmas Ornaments
Bring a bit of the outdoors in with these Scrap Ribbon Tree Ornaments. These are easy to make and don't need much effort to look rustic chic. 

Fun DIY Christmas Ornaments
These Bottle Cap Snowmen Ornaments might get your hands a little messy with paint, but the cute outcome is well worth it! 

Fun DIY Christmas Ornaments
These Yarn Star Ornaments can be done in any color or pattern of yarn for an eclectic tree. 

Fun DIY Christmas Ornaments
Add a little personalization with these Decoupaged Ball Ornaments. You can use something personal, like a map of your favorite vacation spot. 

Fun DIY Christmas Ornaments
Winter-activity inspired, these Popsicle Stick Sled Ornaments are perfect seasonal decoration for your tree. Get even more festive by using puff paint or glitter to decorate.

Hopefully these fun DIY Christmas Ornaments get you prepared for the gift giving of the holiday season. These ornaments will shine on any tree, and be a highlight of Christmas memories for years to come. If you have a crafting tradition you do around Christmas, we'd love to hear about it in the comments or on our social media!

Make sure to also prepare your car for winter weather. If you'll be delivering your homemade ornaments, stop by our Chevrolet dealership for any auto service, like an oil change, that you need before traveling! 

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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Friday, November 20, 2015

5 Tips for a Perfect Turkey

5 Tips for a Perfect Turkey

DURAND, Mich –– Thanksgiving is the American holiday most known for cooking and sharing a turkey feast with family and friends, but cooking a turkey for a crowd can be an intimidating process and a sad disaster if done wrong. Whether you’re cooking a turkey for the first time or if you’re already a great cook and want to polish your skills, you can follow these five tips for a perfect turkey and be the hero of Thanksgiving this year.

1. Choose the right type of turkey.


There are plenty of options at your grocery store including Fresh, Frozen, Organic, etc. Heritage turkeys are leaner and typically more flavorful even though they cost a little extra. If organic is something important to you, make sure to read the label ensuring the bird was raised to standard. Fresh might seem better than frozen to some, but it’s up to you to decide. Some frozen turkeys are snap-frozen, meaning they are quickly frozen just after butchering to save freshness. If you’re looking to save some time, buying fresh eliminates the defrosting process.

2. Select the right size of turkey.


Now that you’ve chosen the right type of turkey it’s time to get down to the size of the bird. Take a mental count of how many guests you’ll be serving, plus yourself, on Thanksgiving and multiple that number by 1–1 1/2 pounds. Add a few pounds to account for the bones and you should have an idea of the size you need. For example, if you’re having nine people over for Thanksgiving, buy a 16-pound turkey.

3. Properly defrost and clean your turkey.


To stifle the growth of bacteria, thaw your turkey breast-side-up on a rimmed baking sheet in the refrigerator. Allow a full day of thawing for every four pounds of turkey. Even if you buy fresh, cleaning a turkey is essential. Simply rinsing the turkey under cool running water and drying it completely with paper towels will do the job.

4. Choose a method to keep your turkey moist.


Brining your turkey is a great way to keep the bird moist and bring flavor into the meat. Brines typically include water, salt, sugar, and spices, so pick a brine that looks the most appealing to you and make sure to properly follow proportions of each ingredient. Rubbing butter, oil, or even mayonnaise mixed with spices on the dry skin will lock moisture in, and should always be done before putting the turkey into the oven. Skip the basting method because opening and closing the oven will create fluctuations in temperature that can effect cooking time.

5. Cook the turkey to the right temperature, then give it a rest.


Avoid over or undercooking a turkey by checking its internal temperature at the thigh and the breast. 165 Degrees is the golden temperature that the thigh, breast, and stuffing inside (if included) should consistently be before pulling the bird out of the oven. When it is pulled out, let the turkey rest for 15–20 minutes before carving to allow the juices to set.

There are so many ways to cook a turkey, but remember to enjoy it too! Hopefully these five tips for a perfect turkey have given you the confidence to be a champion cook this Thanksgiving. For even more ways to impress your guests here are some fabulous ideas for holiday side dishes to accompany your flavorful turkey.

Also make sure your guests arrive and depart safely during the holiday with these Thanksgiving travel tips. Stop by our Fenton area Chevrolet dealership for any auto service, like an oil change, you may need before hitting the road.

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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