Travel Tips for a Safe Thanksgiving

OKEMOS, Mich.,–– Traveling during the holidays can be a hassle. Not only is there a lot of traffic, but the risk of getting into an accident is significantly increased. We understand that enjoying a delicious meal with your friends and family is important. That is why we want you to have a safe trip this year. Read our list of travel tips for a safe Thanksgiving!

1. Make sure your vehicle is up to speed: Check up on its routine maintenance by inspecting tire pressure and fluid levels. Schedule an appointment with our service team if your vehicle is in need of a little TLC.

2. Map your route in advance and plan for heavy traffic: Be prepared for busy roads during the holidays. Consider leaving earlier or later to avoid traffic congestion.

3. Keep your valuables in a safe place: Theft can happen at any time. To be proactive, put your valuables in a covered storage area or the trunk of your vehicle.

4. Bring a charger and cell phone with you: This may be a given, but we thought we'd remind you.

5. Set a schedule and stick to it: If you're traveling a long distance, its best to know where you want to make stops along the way. This will keep you on track along your route.

6. Fill up on gas: Don't head out on your trip without a full tank of gas. It's better to be prepared than waiting until the last minute.

7. Keep a close eye on the road: Thanksgiving is right around the time of year when deer and other large animals are all over the road. Pay closer attention than you normally would to lower your risk of a collision.

Avoid the road-trip stress and enjoy your holiday with friends and family by following these travel tips for a safe Thanksgiving. Whether you are just driving down the road or logging multiple hours on your trip, it's best to be prepared for any situation. Your loved ones will be at ease when they see you make it to your destination without any harm or issues along the way. To make driving easier, Chevy offers many safety features in its new vehicles. Check out our Hanksgiving Sale going on now and see how you can save on a new Chevy with the latest advances in technology!

Located conveniently just outside of Lansing, Hank Graff Chevrolet Okemos is here to help you with your car buying and servicing needs. Our goal is to create a transparent experience and a comfortable environment for all of our valuable customers. If you have any questions, or would like to schedule an appointment, reach us at (517) 349-8300, or stop by the dealership at 1748 W. Grand River in Okemos, MI 48864

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Lunar Rover Technology Used on Chevrolet Electric Vehicles

OKEMOS, Mich., – Almost 50 years ago, General Motors engineers constructed electric vehicle technology to help create the Lunar Rover used to explore the moon with 15 other astronauts. Today, Lunar Rover technology used on Chevrolet electric vehicles has helped the new 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV excel as one of the leading electric vehicles of its kind. You can enjoy the 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV with all the benefits of the Lunar Rover as well as a few extra bells and whistles.

Looking closely at the features of both vehicles, the 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV is built on the same foundation that the iconic Lunar Rover used to explore the surface of the earth. As one of the first electric vehicles of its kind, the Lunar Rover could receive up to 57 miles per charge, with a top speed of 8.7mph and a .25 horsepower engine. The Chevy Bolt EV, on the other hand, receives up to 238 miles per charge, with a 200 horsepower engine and a top speed of 92 mph. The past 50 years have allowed Chevrolet to upgrade the revolutionary technology the Lunar Rover offered, providing its groundbreaking features at an affordable rate available to consumers. 

"Starting at an MSRP of $37,495 before federal tax incentives of up to $7,500 depending upon individual tax situation, the 2017 Bolt EV offers an EPA-estimated 238 miles of range on a single charge. Standard features include electronic precision shift, one-pedal driving, Regen on Demand™ steering wheel paddle, 10.2-inch-diagonal color touchscreen and an 8 year/100,000 mile battery and propulsion system limited warranty (whichever comes first, see dealer for details). The top-trim Premier model adds leather-appointed seats, front and rear heated seats, Surround Vision Camera, Rear Camera Mirror and more."

While the Lunar Rover's electric vehicle technology doesn't stand a chance against the vehicles of today, the passion and drive that brought it to life still lives on in the Chevrolet Bolt EV. Plus, you don't have to wear gloves or a spacesuit to drive this vehicle (unless you want to). The Chevrolet Bolt EV is equipped with out-of-this-world technology that allows it to remain at the forefront of modern electric vehicles, providing drivers with a reliable battery, extensive warranty coverage, and a slew of additional features that sets it apart from competition.

You can view the 2017 Bolt EV and its unique features on our vehicle model overview page. While you're there, you can read up on vehicle details, pricing, available models, and brochures. If you can't find what you're looking for, be sure to call us so we can get a vehicle ordered for you! In no time, you'll be united with the vehicle of your dreams. The Lunar Rover technology used on Chevrolet electric vehicles has provided Earth bound owners of the 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV with an experience unlike any other while behind the wheel of this uniquely historical vehicle.

Located conveniently just outside of Lansing, Hank Graff Chevrolet Okemos is here to help you with your car buying and servicing needs. Our goal is to create a transparent experience and a comfortable environment for all of our valuable customers. If you have any questions, or would like to schedule an appointment, reach us at (517) 349-8300, or stop by the dealership at 1748 W. Grand River in Okemos, MI 48864

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20 Things People Forget While Packing for Vacations

OKEMOS, Mich., – Did you know that, on average, adults forget at least three things per road trip? From phone chargers to changes of clothes, these forgotten items can add up very quickly with replacement costs. To help you save some money this summer, we've found the 20 things people forget while packing for vacations so you can make a checklist to keep yourself prepared! Make sure you're ahead of the curve this year by packing everything in advance. Maximize your road trip fun this year!

1. Phone Charger: This is a no-brainer, but it can be an easy one to forget! Average phone chargers cost anywhere between $10-15. Make sure yours is packed!
2. Travel Document Copies: Going out of the country? Keep these on hand and make sure you have all of the necessary paperwork. Your trip could be delayed if not!
3. First-Aid Kit: In the event of an emergency, you'll want to make sure you're prepared. It's better to be safe than sorry, especially when you're away from home!
4. Hairbrushes: Keep your hair in check during vacation with a hairbrush! This one can be easy to forget but makes a huge difference if you remember it.
5. Stain-Remover: If you go out to eat and things get a little messy, you'll want to get that stain off your shirt as soon as possible! You'll thank us later!
6. Sunscreen: Sunscreen can be up to $7 in warmer states. Purchase and pack some in advance so you don't have to pay a higher price later at the store!
7. Extra Cash: Sometimes, bank accounts can accidentally freeze your account if they detect purchases that don't fit your usual patterns. Keep cash on hand for any emergency!
8. Batteries: From flashlights to video games, batteries can make or break a good vacation. Keeping them on hand will also save you a trip to the store to make a purchase!
9. Snacks: Driving and staying at the hotel can make your stomach rumble from time to time. Curb everyone's appetites between meals with some good old fashioned snacking!
10. Umbrella: Hey, you never know when it's going to rain! Your family will thank you later when you bring this just-in-case commodity!
11. Prescriptions: In case you or someone in your family has to take any medicine regularly, keep these on hand! Bring some extras in case of flight delays or unnecessary traffic!
12. Headphones: If you're next to the guy on the plane snoring, the best way to drown him out is with some great music! You can also give them to the kids to occupy them while on the road!
13. Glasses or Contacts: Forgetting these can turn a fun vacation into a miserable experience very quickly! Keep an extra set of contacts or backup glasses on hand, just in case!
14. Light Jackets: The temperatures may drop at night and it might get a little cold, so having these nearby will reduce the discomfort of the cold!
15. Reusable Water Bottle: You can fill this up repeatedly and save any costs of bottled water on vacations! Plus, it'll give you a good opportunity to help save the planet!
16. Extra Pairs of Clothing: From warm to cold weather, climates can change at the snap of a finger. It's important to pack at least one warmer outfit, just in case.
17. Hand Sanitizer: If you can't find a place to wash your hands or go to a lot of public areas, using hand sanitizer will keep your hands clean and reduce the chances of sickness.
18. Lip Balm: Even if you don't use this regularly, frequent traveling can dehydrate your body and cause your lips to chap up. Keeping some lip balm handy will help to reduce this.
19. Extra Memory Card: If you bring your camera, you'll want to bring another memory card just in case you fill up the first one with too many memories. It's a good backup, too!
20. Personal Hygiene Products: From deodorant to toothpaste, these are easily forgotten and very important to bring! This can make a huge difference in your wallet and on your body!

While there are many other things that you can forget, these 20 things people forget while packing for vacations can serve as a helpful checklist before you finally head out on your journey. If you go on a road trip, make sure you oil is changed beforehand if you need it! Schedule an appointment with us to get your vehicle in top condition before the long journey! If you need to get your tires rotated, now is the time for that, too! You'll be thanking us when you do! Make this vacation season one to remember, and don't forget any of the necessities we listed above!

Located conveniently just outside of Lansing, Hank Graff Chevrolet Okemos is here to help you with your car buying and servicing needs. Our goal is to create a transparent experience and a comfortable environment for all of our valuable customers. If you have any questions, or would like to schedule an appointment, reach us at (517) 349-8300, or stop by the dealership at 1748 W. Grand River in Okemos, MI 48864

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5 Winter Road Trips Just Hours From Okemos, MI

OKEMOS, Mich. – With the mild winter we have been having here in the Mitten State this year it makes it easy to hit the road and spend the weekend driving in the car to one of these 5 winter road trips just hours from Okemos, MI! Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a spontaneous adventure, or a place for the whole family, these weekend destinations are just a few hours away from Okemos, MI and are the perfect cure your winter cabin fever!

Here are some great weekend destinations:

Traverse City, MI- Head to Traverse City, MI where you can enjoy the beauty of Michigan’s winter. With tons of skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing, and winter sports you can get the most out of your winter recreation in Traverse City. Then, warm up at one the many popular local restaurants.

Harbor Springs, MI – If you want to go up north? Stop at Boyne Highlands Resort in Harbor Springs, MI. Another great Michigan destination for winter sports enthusiasts, you can experience a zip lining adventure like never before, in the snow! You can also enjoy horseback rides and fat tire snow biking.

Chicago, IL – Winter sports not for you? City dwellers can’t resist a few days in the windy city! With museums, aquariums, and of course The Bean, you can never be bored in Chicago, IL.

Elkhart, IN – Do you have a superhero fan in your family? Head down to Elkhart, IN for a trip to the Hall of Heroes Museum, the world’s only superhero museum! This destination is only a couple hours south of Okemos, MI,  your road trip can be completed in a flash!

Oregon, OH – If you're looking for a family road trip getaway? Maumee Bay Lodge and Conference Center has year round indoor and outdoor activities everyone in your family will enjoy! From indoor pools and splash parks, to winter hiking and delicious restaurants, there is something to enter everyone in your family.

So, whether you are planning for a long weekend or just a day trip, these 5 winter road trips will be worth the drive! If more road trips in your future, make sure your family enjoys the drive and arrives safely. Stop by Graff Chevrolet Okemos to test drive a 2016 Chevrolet Equinox today - perfect for Michigan's ever-changing weather!

Hank Graff Chevrolet Okemos is committed to providing you with integrity and convenience, all close to home. Let our friendly team of Chevy professionals at Hank Graff Okemos help you – simply call us at (517) 349-8300 or visit our showroom, located at 1748 W. Grand River Okemos, MI 48864. We’re just minutes from Lansing!

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Thanksgiving Travel Tips to Help You Avoid Holiday Backups

OKEMOS, Mich. –– Like the other 46 million Americans that AAA estimates make Thanksgiving travel plans each year, you’re probably planning on driving towards your Turkey Day destination sometime around that Thursday.

But with millions of other drivers hitting the road across the country, it should be expected for you to run into a number of delays caused by traffic congestion. If you’re uninterested in freeway stagnation and more focused on turkey, follow these Thanksgiving travel tips to help you avoid holiday backups. Google spent two years analyzing Thanksgiving weekend traffic conditions to provide us with this information, so you can rest assured their travel insights are accurate as they get.

Avoid driving on Wednesday.

The Wednesday before Thanksgiving might seem like the ideal day to make the drive for Thursday’s turkey, but that’s also why it’s the absolute worst day to travel. Like you, other families assume Wednesday is a great travel day because they can work a half-day then head for their Thanksgiving destinations, usually in the timeframe of 3–5 p.m. It’s a logical idea, but it also results in massive freeway congestion and gridlock.

Travel on Thanksgiving Day.

Traveling on Thanksgiving Day might sound like a hassle––of course you’d rather be watching football and relaxing in a recliner––but it’s likely you’ll have a more peaceful drive on Turkey Day than any other day. Most people will have already made the arduous journey for turkey on Wednesday, leaving the freeways and roads practically empty for you to cruise on without any setbacks.

Head for home on Sunday, not Saturday.

You could drive home on Friday, but it’s likely you’re planning on relaxing after a Thursday of too much food. However, it’s not recommended that you plan to head home on Saturday. According to Google, traffic is 40% worse than any other day on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. This leaves you with one last option: head home on Sunday. Have another helping of pumpkin pie and relax while you watch college football on Saturday.

Just by following these Thanksgiving travel tips to avoid holiday backups you can make your trip a whole lot better. But you should also take a look at some of the other factors that influence the quality of your trip. Use these additional tips to make your trip as comfortable as it can be:

• Have an idea of what the weather will be like while you’re making your Thanksgiving trip. Knowing what road conditions could be like will give you an idea of how to drive, where congestion might occur, and what a safe route might be.
• Figure out your travel route beforehand so you’re aware of areas where construction is taking place or where roads could be closed. This way you won’t be surprised if something comes up and you’re forced to reroute without foreknowledge.
• Have emergency contact information for a roadside assistance service ready. You’ll be ready to call if anything detrimental happens to your vehicle on your trip.
• Is your vehicle ready to drive a long distance for Thanksgiving? Follow our seasonal driving tips here, or visit our Chevrolet dealership near Mason, MI for any auto service your vehicle could be due for.

We love making sure our customers have great driving experiences, even if it's just by sharing a few insights with you to make sure your Thanksgiving travels are safe and easy. Let our friendly team of Chevy professionals at Hank Graff Okemos help you with any other auto needs you might have. Call us at (517) 349-8300 or visit our showroom, located at 1748 W. Grand River Okemos, MI 48864. We’re just a few minutes from Mason!

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