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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Fill-a-Chevy Coat Drive for the Cristo Rey Community Center

OKEMOS, Mich. –– Have you ever tried filling a Chevrolet Silverado with as many coats, hats, and gloves possible? Probably not, but Hank Graff Chevrolet Okemos is about to see how high we can get that number during our Fill-a-Chevy coat drive for the Cristo Rey Community Center in Lansing. 

The winter months can get pretty bitter in Mid Michigan, so we ask our friends and family to consider donating their new and gently used coats, hats, and gloves to those in need. In exchange, we’ll give you $5 off your oil change for every coat donated, with a maximum of $10 per visit. Donations will be accepted all month long, which means we should receive plenty of winter-wear to hand over to the Cristo Rey Community Center!

The Cristo Rey Community Center is a non-profit basic-needs service center that provides access to food, medical care and mental health programs and to all our neighbors in need. Since 1968 they have been working to heal the sick, feed the hungry, protect and enrich children, engage and honor our elderly, and advocate for the most vulnerable in our community.

This winter, consider helping the financially needy members of our community stay warm. Stop by our Okemos area used car dealer to donate your new and gently used coats, hats, and gloves during our Fill-a-Chevy coat drive for the Cristo Rey Community Center and take part in this season of giving.

Hank Graff Chevrolet Okemos is committed to making a difference in our community and beyond, whether it's by raising funds to help others stay warm, or by providing you with integrity and convenience 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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Routine Fluids and Filters Maintenance with Graff Chevrolet Okemos

OKEMOS, Mich. – When it comes to making sure each component of your vehicle is running properly, your fluids and filters take center stage. They make sure the different parts of your car are clean and running smoothly. Fluids and filters also keep different pieces from rusting or breaking. Now you can learn all about routine fluids and filters maintenance with Graff Chevrolet Okemos! Our new online maintenance pages teach you how each fluid and filter is unique to your vehicle, and the purpose they serve in keeping your car running smoothly and safely. The pages also discuss when they may need to be serviced, and the consequences of not taking proper care of your fluids and filters. At Graff Chevrolet Okemos we always want you to be driving in a safe vehicle, so take a closer look at what each routine maintenance page will cover:

Vehicle Fluids:
The fluids in your vehicle perform a number of different functions. They not only keep the multiple parts lubricated and running properly, but they also keep the different components clean. On our fluids routine maintenance page you will learn the different types of fluids your vehicle uses, the various ways they help it run, and the warning signs of when fluid maintenance is needed. The vehicle fluids this page covers are:

• Washer Fluid
• Engine Oil
• Coolant
• Transmission Fluid
• Power Steering Fluid 
• Brake Fluid

Once you have a better understanding of the different fluids in your car, truck, SUV, or crossover, you can take better car of your current vehicle and recognize warning signs much faster. If you believe there is a problem with any fluids in your vehicle, or if you notice a leak, contact our service center today!

Vehicle Filters:
Filters in your vehicle help keep your vehicle running efficiently. They prevent contaminants like dirt and dust particles from getting into vehicle parts. Without proper filter maintenance, the various mechanical parts in your car can wear down faster, rust, and eventually break. On this page we give you descriptions of the different types of filters, and warning signs  that they may need to be replaced. The different filters we cover include:

• Air Filters
• Transmission Filters
• Oil Filters
• Fuel Filters

Filters are a very important component when it comes to having the best vehicle performance. To make sure your filters are clean, schedule an inspection with our service center!

Get a better understanding of your routine fluids and filters maintenance with Graff Chevrolet Okemos. When you visit the routine maintenance section of our website, we will take you through the importance of your vehicle’s fluids and filters, and give you tips on when to service them. At Graff Chevrolet Okemos we want to make sure you are getting behind the wheel of a safe and reliable car. That is why our team of ASE Certified technicians work to make sure every inch of your car, truck, SUV, or crossover is running correctly. To schedule your next fluids or filters maintenance appointment contact our Service Center today!

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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Top 5 Cinco de Mayo Mini Recipes

OKEMOS, Mich. – This Thursday celebrate Cinco de Mayo in a fun way with mini recipes and finger foods. Make your fiesta a big celebration with bite size snacks and appetizers. With our top 5 Cinco de Mayo mini recipes your guests will love the convenience of the snacks without the hassle of holding large plates. Plus you will love the easy clean up afterwards. Take a look at some of the different recipes you can serve this Cinco de Mayo season! 

Seven Layer Dip Cups

Mini Taco Cups

Bite Size Shrimp Tacos

Mini Stuffed Bell Peppers

Mini Churros in Caramel Sauce

From mini tacos to mini churros, these top 5 Cinco de Mayo mini recipes will be a big hit with all of your guests! You will love the savory and sweet flavors from these mini appetizers and snacks. Can’t get a enough miniature things in your life? Stop by Graff Chevrolet Okemos and test drive a 2016 Chevrolet Spark! This sporty hatchback may look small but comes with big features like impressive cargo space and multiple trim levels. Contact our sales professional team for details and schedule a test drive today.

Thinking of easy ways to get your car ready before the big fiesta? Visit our Spring Car Care page on our website! We offer spring tips and tricks to getting your vehicle in top shape. From fluids to your alignment and suspension, our ASE Certified technicians will have your car ready in no time. You can even learn how spring cleaning your interior benefits your vehicle’s lifespan.

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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Spring Car Care and Maintenance Tips by Hank Graff Chevrolet Okemos

OKEMOS, Mich. – When it comes to taking care of your vehicle, our experts at Hank Graff Chevrolet Okemos want to provide you the best service. Seasonal auto maintenance is a very important component when it comes to extending the life and efficiency of your vehicle. The spring season is an important time to refresh your vehicle after the grueling winter conditions it may have faced. On our website you can find our spring car care and maintenance tips by Hank Graff Chevrolet Okemos under our seasonal maintenance page. Learn how spring car care can help your vehicle in the long run.

Take a look at what vehicle maintenance topics we cover in our spring car care page:

• Tires – Your tires are the most important piece to your vehicle! We show you the best ways spring tire care helps your car after the winter weather. 
• Wiper Blades – With all the rain the spring season brings, you will want to make sure your wiper blades are ready. Read about proper spring wiper blade care so you’re prepared. 
• Fluids – Top off all of your fluids this spring. Know what fluids to check on our spring vehicle fluids car care page. 
• Suspension and Alignment – Your suspension and alignment are important when helping your car on the road. Read about how spring suspension and alignment care will help you have a smoother ride. 
• Spring Car Cleaning – Learn how spring car cleaning is important for your vehicle’s interior and exterior. We offer great tips on salt cleaning, car washes, and more!

These seasonal spring car care and maintenance tips by Hank Graff Chevrolet Okemos will not only help you get the most out of your vehicle performance, but help extend the life of your car! You can visit our Graff Chevrolet Okemos Service Center for maintenance on everything from fluids to tires. If you have more questions on vehicle maintenance our FAQ page provides the answers to the most commonly asked questions. We don’t have your question? Call our service center at (517) 349-8300 today.

You can schedule your next appointment for spring car care online or by calling Graff Chevrolet Okemos Service Center. 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 and proudly service the Okemos area including Williamston, Haslett, East Lansing, and Mason!

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Vehicle Maintenance and Winter Car Care Tips at Graff Okemos

OKEMOS, Mich. – Winter is kicking into full gear now Michiganders, so if you haven’t gotten a head start on our winter car maintenance, now is the time to do it. Driving in winter involves ice, snow, salt, and dropping temperatures, which can all take a toll on your vehicle. With the right care though, you and your car will have a great winter season. On our website, we just launched a service area for vehicle maintenance and winter car care tips at Graff Okemos. These winter car care tips will not only extend the life of your vehicle, but also keep you safe all season long. We know how much of an investment buying or leasing a car, truck, or SUV is, so we’re going to help you keep it in tip-top shape.

On our Winter Car Care Page you can find more information on–

• Tires: It’s important to know why winter tires work better than your normal tires. Your tires will make a big difference in winter driving because the treads are designed to maneuver through snow and ice. Read more about the importance on winter tires by clicking the link.
• Batteries: Cold temperatures can decrease your car’s battery life. Normally, a battery is good for two to three years, so if your battery is getting old you may want to replace it. To learn more about the effects winter weather has on your battery, follow the link.
• Brakes: Your brakes should be in tip-top shape every season, but it’s even more crucial in the winter. Your average stopping distance increases a lot when snow and ice are on the ground, so making sure your brakes work properly is important. Learn more about winter brake maintenance by clicking the link.
• Oil Changes: By keeping up on routine oil changes, you’re increasing the life of your engine and car as a whole. It’s especially important to keep up on oil changes in the winter because of the effect the cold temperatures have on the oil. Take a look at the link to see a list of signs your vehicle needs an oil change.
• Wiper Blades: Wiper blades are essential for safe winter driving. You need a clear view to maneuver the roads, and you can’t do that with worn out wiper blades. Follow the link to find a list of signs that your wiper blades need to be replaced.

Icy roads and cold weather can do a number on your vehicle, but with the proper care and preparation you’ll be driving safe and sound all season long. Make sure you take the right steps to winterize your vehicle by visiting our vehicle maintenance and winter car care pages online. Each page will break down the proper care you need to have your vehicle running great through the winter season. If you’d like an extra hand with your winter car care, schedule a service appointment with us online. We’re happy to take care of your tires, oil changes, car battery, brakes, and wiper blades at Graff Okemos.

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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5 Festive Questions and Answers That Explain Santa Claus

OKEMOS, Mich. –– Even as adults, we still enjoy seeing Santa Claus pass by on a parade float, or give our children gifts that say "From: Santa." But when you look back on your history with belief, or disbelief, in Santa Claus, how much can you say you really know about this red-suited, portly fellow with a big beard? If you're wondering what makes Santa Claus the man, the myth, the legend he is, check out these five festive questions and answers that explain Santa Claus.

Where did Santa Claus come from? St. Nicholas, a charitable 4th-century Bishop of Myra, a city in Turkey, is the primary influence for Santa Claus. As you can imagine, Santa Claus and St. Nicholas share a number of characteristics, such as their generosity towards others.

Where did Mrs. Claus come from? Santa Claus was a bachelor up until when James Rees wrote the short story A Christmas Legend in 1849. From then on, Mrs. Claus has taken on a supportive role as Santa Claus' wife.

Why is he named Santa Claus? Depending on where in the world you live, you could refer to Santa Claus by any of these titles: Saint Nicholas, St. Nick, Father Christmas, Black Peter, Kris Kringle, Pere Noel, La Befana, Sinter Klaas and, of course, Santa!

How does Santa Claus deliver all of those gifts?  One of the first questions children ask when they open an investigation of Santa Claus' legitimacy is: "How could he deliver all of those presents in one night?" If you need an answer for your children who still believe, here it is. Due to international time zones, Santa Claus has 31 hours to deliver presents, which means he simply travel at a very fast rate of 4,796,250 mph. Plausible, right? Plus, Santa Claus has nine, fast reindeer to help him: Rudolph, Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner and Blitzen!

Why does Santa Claus wear a red suit? Before he donned the famous red suit, originally introduced in paintings and, famously, Coca-Cola advertisements, Santa Claus wore a green suit. It's hard to imagine the jolly fellow wearing anything other than red, but, hey, he looks good in green, too!

Washington Irivng, a famous author, also helped develop the image of Santa Claus we know so well today. In his book, A History of New York, from 1809, Iriving portrayed Santa Claus as a large, bearded man who smokes a pipe. This book also introduced the idea of Santa Claus coming down the chimney to deliver gifts.

Although you may not believe in Santa Claus anymore, these five festive questions and answers that explain Santa Claus show why it's still fun to know the history behind the saint who became a legend. Despite being more myth than man at this point, Santa Claus serves as an important figure of Christmas for many families thanks to his representation of kindness and a giving attitude.

At Hank Graff Chevrolet Okemos, we also strive to maintain a generous attitude, and we want our customers to see that on a daily basis. That's why we're prepared to help you drive through winter by providing the best auto service near Mason, MI, as well as providing you with winter car care tips to keep you safe on the road this season.

Let our friendly team of Chevy professionals at Hank Graff Chevrolet Okemos help you. 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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Festive Christmas Cookies to Bake for the Holidays

OKEMOS, Mich. –– As Christmas draws near, it's time to start thinking about decorating the house, wrapping gifts, and, of course, baking batches upon batches of delicious treats. This year, when you pull out the rolling pin and cookie sheets, try baking something new like these festive Christmas cookies to bake for the holidays!

Festive Christmas Cookies to Bake for the Holidays

Velvet Cream Cheese Thumbprints 

Christmas Swirl Sugar Cookies

 Classic Snickerdoodles

Buttery Jam Thumbprints

Cherry Almond Shortbread Cookies

Christmas helps make this time of the year the perfect season to unleash your creativity, whether it's through baking, decorating, or creating fun family traditions. Whatever holiday ideas you're looking for, you can find them all on our Holidays Pinterest board!

If you're all set with holiday ideas but still need some end-of-the-year auto service, let our friendly team of Chevy professionals at Hank Graff Okemos help you. 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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Why Does Fuel Economy Get Worse in Winter?

OKEMOS, Mich. –– There area number of reasons why fuel economy gets worse in winter, which can cause fuel efficiency to decrease by 50% thanks to frigid temperatures and harsh weather conditions. Fortunately, there are ways to combat winter's impact on your vehicle's fuel efficiency, but first let's look at what causes your fuel economy to worsen in winter.

Why does fuel efficiency get worse in winter?

There are many reasons for why fuel economy gets worse in winter, many of which you probably partake in when the temperature drops. It's important to understand what causes your mpg to fall, and FuelEconomy.gov provides a thorough list of reasons:

• Engine and transmission friction increases in cold temperatures due to cold engine oil and other drive-line fluids. 
• It takes longer for your engine to reach its most fuel-efficient temperature. This affects shorter trips more, since your car spends more of your trip at less-than-optimal temperatures. 
• Heated seats, window defrosters, and heater fans use additional power. 
• Warming up your vehicle before you start your trip lowers your fuel economy—idling gets 0 miles per gallon. 
• Colder air is denser, increasing aerodynamic drag on your vehicle, especially at highway speeds. 
• Tire pressure decreases in colder temperatures, increasing rolling resistance. 
• Winter grades of gasoline can have slightly less energy per gallon than summer blends. 
• Battery performance decreases in cold weather, making it harder for your alternator to keep your battery charged. This also affects the performance of the regenerative braking system on hybrids.

In severe winter weather, your mpg can drop even further.

• Icy or snow-covered roads decrease your tires' grip on the road, wasting energy. 
• Safe driving speeds on slick roads can be much lower than normal, further reducing fuel economy, especially at speeds below 30 to 40 mph. 
• Using four-wheel drive uses more fuel.

What can you do to maintain fuel economy during the winter?

Despite the long list of reasons that cause your vehicle's fuel economy to get worse in winter, there are a few simple steps you can take to maintain fuel economy during the winter.

1. Keep extra weight off your vehicle. Storing extra items in your vehicle that add extra weight can easily decrease fuel economy. Try to keep as much extra weight as possible off of your vehicle. Removing snow and ice from the exterior of your vehicle can also prevent your fuel economy from decreasing.
2. If possible, don't park outside. Parking outside in the winter means your vehicle's interior temperature will be lower than if you park it inside a garage. While your vehicle's engine only requires 30 seconds to warm up, the interior of a vehicle parked outside during the winter can take several minutes to warm up. By parking inside of a garage, your vehicle's interior temperature will be warmer and require less time and, therefore, fuel to warm up.
3. Fill your vehicle's gas tank early in the morning. When it's cold out, gasoline and diesel are denser than usual and take up less room in your vehicle's gas tank.
4. Keep up with routine maintenance for your vehicle. In the end, nothing is better than keeping up with routine maintenance for your vehicle to help it maintain good fuel economy. Throughout the colder months, all aspects of regular auto service work towards maintaining fuel efficiency, including a having a good set of tires, keeping up with regular oil changes, and other routine services.  

As the colder months take over the roads, it's important to prepare your vehicle for winter. Let our friendly team of Chevy professionals at Hank Graff Okemos help you. Stop by our Mason area Chevrolet dealer, located at 1748 W. Grand River Okemos, MI 48864, or call us at (517) 349-8300. We’re just minutes from Lansing!

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8 Thanksgiving Side Dishes to Go With Your Turkey

OKEMOS, Mich. –– While knowing how to cook a turkey the right way is vital to preparing an enjoyable Thanksgiving meal, there's always room for more on a plate. For a little inspiration on what to cook up, check out these eight Thanksgiving side dishes to go with your turkey we came across on Pinterest and use them to enhance your holiday meal!

8 Thanksgiving Side Dishes to Go With Your Turkey

Sweet Potato Casserole

Balsamic Brown Sugar Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Honey Maple Roasted Carrots

Honey Roasted Butternut Squash With Cranberries and Feta

Cranberry Fluff

Cheesy Pull-Apart Rolls

Crockpot Cranberry Pecan Stuffing

Two-Cheese and Rosemary Mashed Potato Casserole

Maybe you're traveling for Thanksgiving this year and just need to make one of these side dishes to bring along. If so, make sure you check out our Thanksgiving travel tips here. At our used car dealership near Mason, MI, our technicians can make sure your vehicle is ready to go with an oil change or any other auto service it may need taken care of.

Let our friendly team of Chevy professionals at Hank Graff Okemos help you. 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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Battle Winter With These 5 Essential Car Care Tips

OKEMOS, Mich. –– If you thought it was important to prepare your car for fall, just wait until winter hits and your vehicle isn't prepared to handle the harsh realities of months like January and February. You can avoid any major issues that cold weather and winter elements can easily exacerbate for your vehicle if you take care of any necessary auto service by visiting our Delta Charter Township area Chevrolet dealer before the snow falls. Take our word for it and battle winter with these five essential car care tips to make sure your vehicle makes it through to spring.

1. Equip your vehicle with a new set of tires.

Your vehicle should first and foremost have a new set tires specifically designed to handle slick roads packed with snow or sheeted by ice. If your vehicle's tires are balding or haven't been rotated in more than six months, there's a good chance they aren't up to par for winter and could pose a serious risk to you and other drivers on winter roads. Check your vehicle's tires for smooth spots or diminishment of tread. If they seem unsafe, let our technicians equip your vehicle with a new set.

2. Have our technicians inspect your brakes.

Along with making sure your vehicle's tires are ready for winter, it's vital to have a good set of brakes. To ensure your vehicle's brakes are ready to battle winter, have our technicians inspect them for corrosion and other negative signs. Likewise, if you notice your vehicle's brakes are squeaking, or if you're coasting when you come to a stop, both are signs that you need to see our technicians.

3. Inspect your battery for corrosion.

It could be difficult to start your vehicle if its battery isn't ready to handle the frigid temperatures of winter. It's also likely your vehicle could become dysfunctional or struggle to operate properly while you're driving if its battery is in bad condition. To make sure your vehicle's battery is ready to battle winter, inspect it for corrosion. If your vehicle is having trouble starting or its interior lights and headlights seem dim or are flickering, it could also be a sign that the battery won't be in a condition to handle the harsh temperatures ahead. Go here to learn more about the battery services we offer.

4. Make sure your coolant level is where it should be.

Many drivers assume coolant for your vehicle's cooling system is only useful in the heat of summer to keep a vehicle's engine from overheating. However, coolant also keeps your vehicle's engine from freezing in the winter from cold temperatures. If your vehicle's coolant level is too low, the engine could stall or your vehicle could have a hard time starting up. Before it starts snowing, check your vehicle's coolant level, as well as other fluid levels. If your vehicle's fluids are low or you think there may be a leak in a line, let our technicians take a look.

5. Install a new set of wiper blades.

Don't assume wiper blades are only useful in the spring and summer when it rains. Snow, of course, is simply a different state of water, and it can easily obscure your vision when it hits your windshield if your vehicle isn't equipped with an updated set of wiper blades. Old wiper blades will leave streaks and struggle to clear moisture from your windshield, making it difficult to see during a snowstorm. Visit the service page on our webstie to see what poor visibility looks like: http://bit.ly/1I4id39

There's plenty of other auto service you should have our technicians take care of before winter hits, but at the very least you should be able to battle winter with these five essential car care tips. Let our friendly team of Chevy professionals at Hank Graff Okemos help you. 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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How to Cook a Thanksgiving Turkey the Right Way

OKEMOS, Mich. –– Preparing a well-cooked turkey for Thanksgiving is no easy task, considering how quickly it can dry out or how easy it is to undercook it. Before you stuff your bird and stick it in the oven this November, follow our tips on how to cook a Thanksgiving turkey the right way.

1. Choose the right size turkey.

Choosing the right size turkey depends on how large of group you're planning to serve this Thanksgiving. In general, a 20-pound turkey will feed a large group, but the best way to estimate the right size bird is to assume each guest will consume about 1 1/2 pounds of turkey, including bones and giblets.

2. Prepare your turkey so it's safe to consume.

Properly cooking a turkey requires preparation. You should thaw your turkey in the refrigerator to prevent the growth of bacteria. Place the bird breast-side-up on a rimmed baking sheet in your fridge, and give 24 hours of thawing time for every four pounds of turkey. After your turkey thaws, remove the giblets and save them for gravy stock. Rinse the turkey under cool water and dry it completely.

3. Stuff your turkey with caution.

If you plan on stuffing your turkey, make sure you do so just before you place the turkey in the oven. This prevents bacteria from having the time it needs to grow, whereas if you stuff your turkey ahead of time, bacteria has plenty of time to grow. Use 10 cups of stuffing for a 12–15-pound turkey, and 12 cups of stuffing for a 15–20-pound turkey.

4. Use a stainless steel roasting pan to cook your turkey.

Using a stainless steel roasting pan will ensure heat is distributed evenly to your turkey as it cooks. Set the turkey on a rack in a shallow stainless steel roasting pan. After the first hour of cooking, regularly baste the turkey in the juices that collect in the pan to keep the turkey moist and help it brown evenly. Roast your turkey until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.

5. Let your turkey sit after it cooks.

Letting your turkey sit for 15–20 minutes after it cooks allows it to absorb the juices you basted it in, as well as the juices in the pan. This will help your turkey stay moist and finish do a little extra cooking on the inside before you cut into it.

If you're hosting Thanksgiving this November, make sure your know how to cook a Thanksgiving turkey the right way using our tips for reference. On the other hand, if you're traveling somewhere else, check out our Thanksgiving travel tips here. Make sure your vehicle is ready to hit the road and oil change or any auto service it may need from our friendly team of Chevy professionals at Hank Graff Okemos. 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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Transition into Fall With These Car Care Tips

OKEMOS, Mich. – With the recent end of summer and the beginning of fall, the seasonal change marks the perfect time to get your vehicle a routine maintenance checkup at Hank Graff Chevrolet Okemos. Make sure your vehicle is ready to handle cooler temperatures and other harsh elements that come with the last few months of the year, and transition into fall with these car care tips.

Check the Fluids.

You should routinely check your vehicle’s fluid levels to make sure they’re at the correct levels. as it cools down throughout autumn you’ll want to pay even closer attention and check for any leaks. Fall is the perfect time to have our ASE Certified technicians take a look at your fluids to make sure they’re topped off and ready for the upcoming winter.

Keep Your Vehicle Clean.

Just because it’s getting colder out doesn’t mean you should stop washing your car. Fall is a beautiful season; don’t you want your vehicle to look just as beautiful? Get your car washed once or twice throughout the season to help it keep a healthy outer appearance. 

Test the Battery.

Fall is the perfect time to make sure your battery is up-to-date before winter hits. Check for any corrosion on the terminals, a sign that your battery is getting old. Come in for a free battery test at our service center and we’ll let you know if you’re good to go or if you need a replacement.

Get a Brake Inspection.

You should have your brakes inspected every 18,000 miles, and seeing as fall is the season that precedes slick, icy roads, it makes sense to have our brake technicians inspect, repair, or replace your brakes in the fall. If you hear or feel signs that your brakes are at the end, bring your vehicle to us and we’ll take care of everything.

Get a Cooling System Inspection.

Your cooling system isn’t just for preventing your vehicle from overheating in the summer. It also keeps your engine and other components from freezing, and helps keep you warm when it gets cold. The last thing you want is a car or truck that won’t start because you have a coolant leak, or vents that don’t produce heat on a cold morning. Our technicians can perform a thorough inspection of all components of your cooling system.

Don’t miss out on scenic fall drives through Michigan because your vehicle isn’t in the condition it should be. Transition into fall with these car care tips and bring your car or truck to our Okemos area used car dealer. We’ll handle all of the necessary auto service and car repair your vehicle requires to get it through the year to next fall.

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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Chevrolet and AutoShare Partner to Provide Affordable Transportation

© General Motors

OKEMOS, Mich. – Chevrolet and AutoShare are partnering to provide affordable transportation to college students at Ryerson University, the University of Toronto, and York University, all based in Toronto. Chevy will add 16 of its vehicles to AutoShare’s car sharing fleet for students at three prestigious universities to use.

College comes with a slew of expenses that make affordability elusive for students. But as Chevrolet and AutoShare partner to provide affordable transportation these students could save between 35 and 45% on transportation costs, helping them put money towards tuition, food, or rent. The registration fees will be waived for students to use the Chevy vehicles, and AutoShare will only charge students $6 an hour to operate the Chevy models in its fleet.

“We are thrilled to be working with AutoShare to provide university students in Toronto with this unique opportunity to find new roads, both on and off campus,” said John Roth, GM Canada’s VP of sales, service, and marketing. “This partnership provides around-the-clock access to a range of fun-to-drive and stylish Chevrolets.”

Many automotive companies are in the midst of developing autonomous vehicle technology and other modes of non-automotive transportation in an attempt to provide more affordable and eco-friendly transportation. But Chevy understands drivers like driving, and they may have found a different transportation niche to expand their dominance in.

If things go well in Canada, perhaps Chevy will partner with an America car sharing firm and put fleets on American college campuses. Chevy understands how important for college students to have the finances necessary to afford things like oil changes or other auto service, both of which are available at our Dewitt area Chevy dealership. A system like car sharing is a feasible option for students to get where they need to while saving money and still getting the driving experience they cherish.

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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