How to Increase the Resale Value of Your Vehicle

OKEMOS, Mich., – If you're looking to purchase a vehicle within the next few months, but plan on selling your old vehicle first, you'll do what you can to maximize your profit. Whether you're going to sell your vehicle next week or next month, knowing how to increase the resale value of your vehicle will make it look more appealing to potential buyers. If you're planning on trading your vehicle in for a newer one, be sure to value your trade by getting it appraised as soon as possible!

Keep A Detailed Service Record

The best way to show potential buyers that your vehicle is properly cared for is with a detailed service record. You can show them how frequently you've had parts and components replaced, when they were replaced, and prepare potential owners for future maintenance. Used vehicle buyers are willing to pay more for a properly maintained vehicle, and it'll be a lot easier to increase your vehicle's value this way. If you can't find any records of your vehicle's maintenance, websites like CarFax keep all of your service records on file for you to access.

Frequently Clean Your Vehicle

Having your vehicle regularly washed will make it look more appealing, prevent rusting, and increase its resale value. Taking your vehicle to the car wash, having it waxed, and putting extensive care into cleaning its interior will make your vehicle more valuable to potential buyers. Park your vehicle in shade or shelter to prevent nature from causing any unwanted damage to your vehicle's exterior. Refer to our routine maintenance tips for advice on keeping your vehicle at peak shape!

Practice Defensive Driving

Defensive driving will keep you safe and your vehicle at top value! Any history of collisions or accidents will severely reduce the value of your vehicle, making it much harder to get a good deal. Drive the speed limit, use your turn signals, and pay attention to other drivers to prevent any potential accidents from occurring. In the event that you end up in a collision, schedule service with us to get your car back in good shape and on the road again. 

Replace Your Lights & Covers

Dim or "foggy" headlights can severely reduce the value of a used vehicle. Getting your headlights replaced is very affordable and can make a huge difference to potential buyers. It will also improve visibility on the road, making it much easier for you to navigate the streets at night. While headlight cleaning products can help to increase visibility on the road, getting your headlights replaced is a better bet to make them look good as new.

Make Your Rims Look Shiny

Would you want to purchase a vehicle if the rims were grimy and dirty? Shiny rims increase your vehicle's cosmetic value and prevent rust from accumulating. Getting down and dirty and cleaning the interior and exterior of your wheels will make a huge difference when the time comes to sell your vehicle. You can even use tire shine product on your rims to make them look shiny and brand new.

Remove Scratches

If you were purchasing a used vehicle, you would pay a special attention to any scratches it may have. Make your vehicle more valuable to potential buyers by purchasing a scratch remover pen. They're fairly inexpensive, last a long time, and can make a huge difference with potential vehicle buyers. However, scratch remover pens only work with the replacement of surface-level scratches. If you have any scratches deeper than on the paint, you may have to take it in for further maintenance.

Remove Dents

This may seem a little silly, but one of the best ways to remove small and medium-sized dents on your vehicle is with the "plunger method"! Using nothing but a plunger and water, you can reduce or eliminate smaller dents on your vehicle's exterior, helping to bring its value up. First, wet your plunger and the dent's surface with water. After that, suction the plunger around the dent and pretend you're plunging a toilet. Before you know it, your dents will either be smaller in size or gone! If your dent is too large, however, you'll need to take it in for cosmetic maintenance to get it up to speed.

With these tips, your vehicle will be ready to trade or sell in no time! Since you know how to increase the resale value of your vehicle, you'll be able to get a great deal from us at Graff Bay City! Using our quick and simple form, you'll be able to estimate the value of your vehicle right away and can receive a better trade-in value when you bring it in. After you sell or trade in your vehicle, you'll want to find a new car that'll suit your needs, and our helpful guide will put you on the right track to finding that perfect vehicle! Take a look at our vast inventory to get a close look at what we have to offer!

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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Creative Art Projects to Try With the Family

OKEMOS, Mich., – One of the best ways to express yourself is through art! Whether you're crafting, painting, or singing, art is one of the easiest ways to bring out your inner creativity. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, children that are exposed to art at a young age are four times more likely to receive academic scholarships and three times more likely to have improved school attendance! Getting your kids involved in the arts, whether it's through drawing, music, or even writing is an excellent way to ensure their success in the future. Check out our creative art projects to try with the family and enjoy spending some quality time together doing something new!

1. Spray Painted Nature

Start off with something quick and easy that everyone can do and personalize to their taste! All you need is a can of paint of any color, some gold spray paint (or silver, white, black, etc.), white canvases in whatever size you like, and leaves or flowers of your choice. 

2. Lemon Stamp

Make some creative patterns and abstract art with these lemon stamps! This easy-to-make art project only requires three ingredients: a cut lemon, stamp ink of any color, and something to stamp on like thick paper, wrapping paper, a canvas, etc. Try using cabbages, celery, and rose blossoms to create tons of unique patterns! 

3. Fired Ink Art

Fired ink, as the name suggests, uses colored inks, rubbing alcohol, and fire to bring these crazy creations to life. The result is a shimmering kaleidoscope of colorful patterns. If you're making these with your kids, make sure you light their art in a safe environment away from hazards! Before you know it, your home will have fresh artwork, courtesy of your kids. 

4. Stone Cactus Yard Art

Stone cacti are just as colorful as regular cacti, but without the maintenance or thorns! All you need to bring these fun "plants" to life are a few rocks, some acrylic paint, and a small pot! Teach the kids how to make cacti art to improve their attention to detail and patience. Your whole home will transform into a desert before your eyes with these eye-catching stone cacti. 

5. Pebble Art

Pull together some professional-looking artwork, courtesy of your backyard, with pebble art! Using rocks, twigs, glue, pens, and a canvas or picture frame, you can make birds sitting on a tree, a couple hanging from a swing, and more! 

Creativity and artistic expression is just as important for adults as it is children. According to the National Endowment of the Arts, adults who regularly express themselves through art are happier, more productive at work, and become more open to trying new things. We hope that these creative art projects to try with the family will help you and your children bring out the inner artist and learn something new in the process. If you're looking for more inspiration, be sure to follow our Pinterest page for DIY projects, crafts, and recipes worth trying. While you're at it, bring your creativity to your vehicle and add some accessories to help personalize your ride.

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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Best Selling Flavors to Try During National Ice Cream Month

OKEMOS, Mich., – July is National Ice Cream Month! Fun fact: ice cream has been around since the Roman Empire, and has been noted in history books for hundreds of thousands of years. Over time, this chilly dessert has become an international favorite, and has been made with many unique flavors and styles. We're big fans too and we've put together a list of best-selling flavors to try during National Ice Cream Month. Check out our list below, then head out in your Chevy and grab a few pints to share. Enjoy!

Coffee

Need a caffeine kick? Coffee flavored ice cream is just the flavor you're looking for! It combines the taste of coffee with the sweetness of ice cream, and tastes just like a frozen coffee. Coffee flavored ice cream is among the list of best-sellers and is also incredible easy to make at home if you're looking for a new recipe to try.

Ice Cream Fun Fact: In the summer of 1790, President George Washington spent over $200 on ice cream. That's over $5,000 worth of ice cream by today's standards!

Cookies & Cream

One of the most popular ice cream flavors in the United States, cookies and cream is the ideal flavor for Oreo lovers! If you didn't already know, cookies and cream ice cream is made with a blend of crunchy chocolate cookie pieces and sweet vanilla ice cream. If you're looking to get your hands on a cup or cone of cookies and cream, Tasty Twist in East Lansing has the best ice cream in the area!

Ice Cream Fun Fact: New Zealand is the biggest consumer of ice cream in the world: on average, their population eats over 7.5 gallons of ice cream per person per year!

Peanut Butter

You might be surprised to know that peanut butter ice cream is one of the best-selling ice cream flavors! Enjoy the rich and creamy flavor of peanut butter without the stickiness, and be sure to top it off with chocolate syrup, Reese's minis, or more peanut butter if you're a fan! You can either make it yourself or check out the Michigan State Dairy Store for their take on peanut butter ice cream.

Ice Cream Fun Fact: Chocolate syrup is the most popular ice cream topping in the world! Chocolate syrup goes great with almost every flavor, and can make your peanut butter ice cream taste like  Reese's peanut butter cups!

Cookie Dough

Did you know, chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream is the best selling ice cream flavor in Michigan?! It uses sweet and simple vanilla ice cream as a base with raw cookie dough bits sprinkled throughout, but don't worry, the dough is completely safe to eat. If you're feeling creative, you can try making chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream at home for a fun surprise for the ice cream lovers in your family.

Ice Cream Fun Fact: Next to cookies, ice cream is the best selling treat in the United States!

Mint Chocolate Chip

Mint and chocolate together is one of those dynamic duos you see everywhere in the dessert world, including in ice cream! Mint chocolate chip ice cream, one of the best-selling flavors, allows you to enjoy the duo in a cool and creamy way. You can find a variety of styles that include chocolate chunks, chips, and swirls of syrup! If you're looking for a unique twist on ice cream, Dippin' Dots makes a mint and chocolate flavor.

Ice Cream Fun Fact: It takes approximately 50 licks to finish a single scoop of ice cream. 

This July, take your taste buds on a chilly, delicious flavor vacation with these best-selling flavors to try during National Ice Cream Month. From coffee to cookie dough, you may find a new favorite flavor or become a regular at a local Okemos ice cream shop! For any trip you take this Summer, including the short trips, you'll want to make sure your vehicle is in shape to do so. Check out our summer care care tips to ensure you're ready for the road. If you've got a big road trip coming up, bring your vehicle in to our Service Center to have it inspected before you go!

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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Service and Parts Coupons to Save You Money at Graff Okemos

OKEMOS, Mich., – Whether it's an oil change or tire rotation, routine maintenance is something every driver will have to take care of throughout their ownership of the vehicle. While oil changes can be fairly inexpensive, other maintenance tasks like getting replacement brakes or replacing a battery can be more costly. Keep your car running its best and your wallet full with these service coupons to save you money at Graff Okemos Take a look at some of our best coupons below for more money-saving opportunities!

30-Day Guarantee Tire Price Match

If you buy tires from us at Graff Okemos and find a better deal within 30 days of your purchase, bring it in and we'll refund you the difference! The tire brands eligible are BFGoodrich, Bridgestone, Continental, Dunlop, Firestone, General, Goodyear, Hankook, Kelly, Michelin, Pirelli, and Uniroyal. Take advantage of this coupon before the year ends! We recommend using it to purchase a set of winter tires when the time comes.

Oil Change & Tire Rotation Discounts

Whether you own a vehicle that takes 6-quarts or 8-quarts of oil, you can take advantage of these exclusive multi-service discounts until the end of the year. When you're here, we'll make sure to change your oil, rotate your tires, and provide an inspection which includes checking your fluid levels, steering, suspension, wiper blades, exhaust, battery, brakes, and belts.

Discounted ACDelco Batteries

Make sure your car will start in any weather, and keep your electric components well powered with a new battery! The ACDelco Professional Silver battery comes with a 30-month free-replacement limited warranty, while the Gold battery comes with a 42-month free-replacement limited warranty. With a $24.95 installation fee, you'll be able to save extra on a brand new battery until the end of 2017. 

Make the most of these limited-time offers while you can!

$29.43 Lube, Oil, & Filter

Keeping up on your oil and filter changes is extremely important to your engine's health. Oil lubricates and protects your engine's components that will help extend it's life. Having your belts and hoses checked regularly is another important routine maintenance task, because they enable your vehicle and other important components within to run. Keeping your door, hood hinges, steering, suspension, and driveline lubricated will help prevent rusting, allowing for easier steering, and helps keep your ride smooth. Our lube, oil, and filter coupon helps you maintain these important components for the price of a normal oil change! Our friendly Service Staff's inspection can save you money on potentially costly repairs in the future by informing you right away if anything requires attention. Keep up on your routine maintenance with our lube, oil, and filter coupon!

$119.95 Coolant Flush

Coolant is one of the most important fluids in your vehicle, as it can regulate and reduce the heat of the engine over time. Your coolant should be replaced about every 30,000 miles or every two years. Because your coolant is so important to your engine's functions, you'll want to make sure you keep track of when this service is needed, or ask our service technicians for help! Our Service Staff will also check for any leaks, as well as take a look at your belts and hoses, too. 

With a summer full of activities, road trips, and fun in the sun, it can be easy to forget about vehicle maintenance. Remembering to have your vehicle regularly looked at, however, is the best way to prevent costly repairs that could cut into your road trip fund. Use these service and partscoupons to save you money to help prevent anything from happening while you're out on the road! If you'd like to take advantage of these limited-offer deals, schedule an appointment with us and print off the coupon you'll be using and our Service Staff will get it taken care of right away. Plus, you can further reduce your need for costly maintenance with our helpful routine maintenance tips to keep up on your vehicle's needs year-round!

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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Chevy Awards MLB All-Star MVP with Corvette Grand Sport

OKEMOS, Mich., – The 88th annual Major League Baseball All-Star game was full of surprises this year. The best players from around the league, including Tigers pitcher Michael Fulmer and outfielder Justin Upton, gathered at Marlins Park in Miami for the blockbuster outing. Every year, the All-Star MVP is awarded a vehicle of their choosing, and this year, Chevy awarded the MLB all-star MVP with a Corvette Grand Sport for his miraculous performance. Robinson Cano, second baseman for the Seattle Mariners, was the all-star MVP this year, scoring the game-winning home run and bringing the American League to a 2-1 victory.

Cano, after finishing off a 1-2 performance at bat and scoring a home run, RBI, and scored run, had the opportunity to select a brand new Chevy vehicle. Between the 460-horsepower Corvette Grand Sport or the brand new Colorado ZR2, Cano chose the Corvette Grand Sport as an award for his fantastic outing at bat. He is the third player in Seattle Mariners history to receive the All-Star MVP award, joined by Hall of Famers Ichiro Suzuki and Ken Griffey Jr., and is now the proud owner of a new Chevy vehicle, America's most awarded car company.

“Robinson Canó turned in a tremendous performance tonight and is an excellent example to all baseball fans, and especially our kids, that hustle, determination, and teamwork are what wins, and that is why Chevrolet is proud to present the MVP award,” said Brian Sweeney, U.S. vice president of Chevrolet.

Since 2005, Chevrolet has been the Official Vehicle of Major League Baseball, and has supplied over 135,000 equipment kits, funded 9,400 park renovations, and impacted more than 6.4 million boys and girls across the U.S. with its Chevrolet Youth Baseball Program. The Chevrolet Youth Baseball program allows children throughout the United States to receive training from experienced baseball instructors for free. Participants learn the fundamentals of baseball, like hitting, fielding, and pitching, and receive an afternoon snack, all in the course of a half day!

Robinson Cano's Corvette Grand Sport carries a 460-horsepower engine and a number of one-of-a-kind features. Designed in honor of the original 1963 Corvette Grand Sport models, the 2017 update carries several new elements that set it apart from other luxury sport vehicles. Able to travel from 0-60 mph in 3.6 seconds, with a quarter-mile capability of 11.8 seconds at 118 mph, the Corvette Grand Sport more than lives up to its legacy.

You can view the 2017 Corvette Grand Sport and 2017 Colorado ZR2 at our vehicle model overview page. Browse the wide variety of models, trim levels, and styles of each vehicle to find the perfect ride for your needs. Since Chevy awarded the MLB all-star MVP with a Corvette Grand Sport, you should treat yourself, too! Use our exclusive coupons to get a great deal on your next service appointment so you can save up for a brand new ride!

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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Hidden Gem Towns in Michigan Worth Visiting This Summer

OKEMOS, Mich., – There's nothing quite like summertime in Northern Michigan! Most people have their favorite spots to go to or camp at, and there are certainly a few destination towns that every Michigander can name by heart. But, there are also a lot of not so well known towns worth visiting where you'll find everything you need for an amazing vacation or weekend adventure. Read our list of hidden gem towns in Michigan worth visiting this summer to make the most of our gorgeous state!

Tawas

Lake Huron often gets a bit overshadowed by Lake Michigan, but spend some time on Tawas Bay and you'll start thinking much differently on the subject. With a perfectly protected bay to enjoy the water, a number of fun shops and restaurants to check out, a beautiful old lighthouse, and many other outdoor activities, Tawas City and East Tawas are a perfect change of pace for a fun weekend up north.

Port Austin

You may not know Port Austin by name, but you're probably familiar with it's most famous landmark, the Turnip Rock! While a trip to the thumb is worth it just to kayak over and snap a few pictures of the wild rock formation, you can also take advantage of Port Austin's many hiking trails, gorgeous beach, local shops, and water sport activities.

Houghton Lake

Do you and your family love water sports, skiing, tubing, and more!? Houghton Lake, one of Michigan's largest inland lakes, is the perfect spot to do so! The surrounding area has a ton of other smaller lakes and state parks to enjoy as well.

St. Joseph

Another overshadowed town due to it's proximity to hotspots like Holland, Grand Haven, and Saugatuck, St. Joe is a fun and energetic lakeside town tucked right above the Indiana border. It has an incredible downtown area filled with shops and yummy restaurants as well as a gorgeous beachfront to enjoy. It's a perfect spot for a day trip!

Old Mission Peninsula

Lots of people make a trip up to Traverse City each summer, but most don't take the time to drive up the Old Mission Peninsula and take in the spectacular views and landscape that it offers! We highly recommend a sunset drive up this beautiful stretch of land.

Paradise

Alright, it may be all the way up in the U.P. but it's worth being called a "troll" (what Upper Peninsula residents fondly call us Lower Peninsula people) to experience why this town totally lives up to its name! Paradise, Michigan offers the breathtaking Tahquamenon Falls, the Shipwreck Museum, and the ability to have lots of fun on Lake Superior and in the surrounding state parks.

Frankfort 

Located on Lake Michigan and right near the beautiful Crystal Lake, Frankfort is a perfect place to get all of enjoyment out of a trip up north without having to travel to some of the more crowded and touristy towns.

Cadillac

A town people are all too quick to pass by on their way up north on Friday nights. Cadillac is an amazing little town with terrific golfing, a modern downtown area with excellent choices for food, and access to a fun all-sports lake.

Harbor Springs

A little ways past the bustle of Charlevoix and Petoskey is Harbor Springs, Michigan. It's an adorable town on Little Traverse Bay that offers everything you'll want and need for a relaxing weekend up north.

Glen Arbor

Last but not least, the crown jewel of Northern Michigan. With access to a number of incredible beaches, the Sleeping Bear Dunes, bike and hiking trails, and a delightful little downtown area, there is a lot to love about Glen Arbor! Plus, you can spend an afternoon floating down the Platte River on inner tubes with the whole family!

We encourage you to take the road less traveled, so to speak, this summer and explore areas and towns in our great state that maybe you haven't experienced before. There's plenty of fun to be had all over in the hidden gem towns in Michigan worth visiting this summer! But before you head on the long road trip to your destination, consult our Summer Car Care tips to make sure your vehicle is in good working condition and ready for anything!

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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How to Care for Your Tires

OKEMOS, Mich., – They help get you from point A to point B and keep your vehicle stable on any road condition, the fact is, your tires play a huge role when it comes to driving. Since your tires are the only point of contact your vehicle has with the road, making sure they're in good condition is extremely important to ensure your safety! Keeping them properly cared for on a regular basis will help extend the life of your vehicle and help you remain safe on the road! Make sure you know how to care for your tires this summer to improve your experience with your vehicle! 

Check Your Tire's Tread

The easiest way to find out if your tires need replacing is by checking their tread. Your vehicle's tread helps your tires to maintain a grip on the road, keeping your vehicle stable while driving. Since there is no specific timeframe as to when your tires should be replaced, like say 3,000 miles for an oil change, the best way to find this out is through the "Penny Test". It's a simple, 3-step process that will help you determine the status of your vehicle's tread.

1. Place a penny in the lowest tread grooves of your vehicle's tire with Lincoln's head facing down or upside down.
2. Gently move the penny along the groove of the tire.
3. If, at any point, Lincoln's head is visible or isn't covered by the tread, your vehicle's tires are too worn down to properly grip the road.

If you have any questions or aren't sure about the tread of your tire, feel free to bring it in to our Service Center and we'll gladly give it a look!

Keep Your Tires Properly Inflated

Keeping the proper amount of air in your tires will improve their capabilities both on and off the road. Typically, tires contain anywhere between 30-35 PSI. If you aren't sure, though, you can check your owner's manual for a more detailed explanation. Driving on low tires can cause heat build-up and tire failure, which can create expensive damages for your vehicle. Uneven tread can also reduce gas mileage due to the distribution of weight on different sides of the vehicle. Use a tire gauge to check your PSI or bring it in to our Service Center to get your tires properly inflated or for any other questions you may have!

Get Your Wheels Aligned

Your vehicle's tire alignment helps to evenly distribute tread wear and keep you stable on the road. Driving on potholes, dirt roads, uneven surfaces, and bumpy conditions can throw your vehicle's tire alignment off. Your tires should be parallel to one another and perpendicular to the road. Keeping up on your vehicle's tire alignment will save you a lot of money on potentially costly repairs in the near future. Plus, with less uneven tread wear and improved steering, it'll increase your fuel economy! So drive safely on all of the different road conditions to help reduce the risk of throwing your tire's alignment out of whack.

Keep an Eye on Load Capacities

Whatever you do, do not exceed your tire's load capacity on your vehicle! This can put enormous amounts of stress on your vehicle which can build up heat, which can cause tire destruction. Read your vehicle's manual to find out what your carrying capacity is limited to. Keeping your load index far below the limit will extend the life of your tires and the stress your vehicle goes under. 

Choose the Right Tires

Choosing the right tires for the right situation can be very confusing, especially considering the wide variety of brands and types available. We at Graff Okemos are happy to help! Contact us or schedule an appointment and we'll be more than happy to show you which brands and styles will work best for your vehicle and your budget. If you're getting just one or two tires replaced, making sure they're the same brand or style will improve your handling and fuel economy of your vehicle. Plus, our 30-Day Guarantee will provide you with the best deal you can get on tires with their competitive pricing!

Making sure you know how to care for your tires will help improve your experience on the road. If your tires are bald, have uneven tread, or are constantly deflating, it may be time for a new set of tires. After you get your new set of tires, you'll notice improved handling and fuel economy, too! Be sure to schedule an appointment to get your tires replaced or fixed as soon as you can! Give us a call if you have any questions and our Service Staff will be happy to answer them!

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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