Peanut Butter Filled Recipes to Celebrate National Peanut Butter Lover's Day - March 1st

OKEMOS, Mich., –– Peanut butter lovers unite! Did you know, there's a day dedicated just to you? A paste/spread made from ground dry roasted peanuts and enjoyed worldwide, peanut butter is arguably one of the best foods to indulge for both its delicious taste and nutritional value. If you're a peanut butter fiend and can't live a day without enjoying this protein-packed snack, you'll want to make these peanut butter filled recipes to celebrate National Peanut Butter Lover's Day - March 1st:


Sweet Indulgences:

Peanut Butter S'mores Dip (Easy)

Peanut Butter Blondies (Easy)

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Ice Cream (Moderate)

Peanut Butter Sandwich Waffle Dippers (Easy)

Peanut Butter Pound Cake S'mores (Moderate)

PB&J Cookies (Easy)

Peanut Butter Brownie Bombs (Easy)

Peanut Butter Stuffed Cookies (Easy)

Buckeye Brownies (Easy)

Chocolate-Peanut Butter Banana Bread (Easy)

Healthier Alternatives:

Banana-Peanut Butter Smoothie (Easy)

Peanut Butter Stuffed Apples (Easy)

Monster Trail Mix Bites (Easy)

Breakfast Apple Nachos (Easy)

Don't know where to start? We understand, there's a lot of mouth-watering dishes to choose from. Whatever taste you're going for, we've got you covered. Make one of these peanut butter filled recipes to celebrate National Peanut Butter Lover's Day - March 1st. After all, it's a great excuse to make something sweet, especially if you love peanut butter! Some of these simple recipes are the perfect snack to take along on your next road trip. While you prepare these goodies, read our blog for tips on how to prepare your vehicle for a road trip. Haven't decided where to vacation to? Take a trip to one of these spring break destinations in Michigan for an unforgettable adventure! Contact our friendly team at Graff Okemos if you have any questions!

Hank Graff Chevrolet Okemos is committed to providing you with top-notch service and convenience close to home. Let our friendly team of Chevy professionals at Hank Graff Okemos help you find your dream car – 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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Get Your Vehicle Ready for Your Next Road Trip

OKEMOS, Mich., – Don't let your vehicle break down during a road trip. Whether you're unable to leave your driveway or you stall out in the middle of a crowded freeway, having your vehicle break down on your drive can be frustrating and stressful. Being proactive and prepared is the the best way to combat this. Inspect these critical components to get your vehicle ready for your next road trip and avoid being sidelined on the road waiting for a tow truck:

Check the oil level:

Your oil helps to regulate the temperature of your engine, preventing it from overheating by lubricating important internal components. Typically, oil changes occur every 5,000-8,000 miles, or whenever your vehicle owner's manual recommends. You can check your oil in just a few simple steps. First, pop the hood of your engine and find the engine's dipstick (it should look like a plastic ring sticking out of your engine). Next, remove the dipstick from the engine and wipe it on a cloth. After this, stick it in your engine again and remove it. The dipstick will have "FULL" and "EMPTY" labels on its side. If the oil level only reaches to the "EMPTY" component, it's time for an oil change!

Check your tire tread:

You're going to need working tires in order to enjoy your road trip! Over time, your tires can wear down on their tread, reducing their ability to effectively grip the road. You can check the tread of your tires using the "penny method" to save yourself some time. Place a penny face down between the grooves of your tires. If you can't see Lincoln's head, your tires have adequate tread and should be able to handle the road ahead. If you can see his head, however, this means your tread has worn down and your tires need to be replaced as soon as possible! Make sure you know how to take care of your tires to ensure they last a long time.


Listen to your brakes:

Does braking take longer than it used to? Does it pull your vehicle to the side as you slow to a stop? Does it make a loud grinding or screeching noise when you brake? If you answered yes to any of these questions, it may be time to have your brakes looked at. Make sure you know when to get your brakes inspected to keep everyone on the road safe, including yourself and your passengers! Repaired or replaced brakes can make all the difference in the world, whether you're going on a road trip or simply commuting to work.

Make sure your coolant is filled:

On long drives, your vehicle's engine can overheat with increased usage. Your engine's coolant serves to reduce and maintain an even temperature with your vehicle's engine. It's one of the most important components of your vehicle, and without it, overheating could permanently damage your vehicle! The easy part, however, is that it is extremely easy to check. Engine coolant is typically replaced every 30,000 miles, or whenever your vehicle owner's manual estimates. Pop the hood of your engine and look for the large plastic container labeled "coolant" or "antifreeze". The container should have markings on the side to indicate whether or not you have enough coolant, and if it's below the required level, you'll need to refill it! Bring in your vehicle to Graff Okemos if you need your coolant replaced and we'll take care of it right away.


Check your heating & cooling:

Nobody wants to drive in a vehicle that's too hot or too cold. Malfunctioning heating and cooling units can make everyone in the vehicle irritated, making the drive an all around exhausting experience. Checking your heating and air conditioning is easy: if your vehicle doesn't heat up or cool down fast enough (or at all), it could be an issue with your system. Have your heating and cooling system inspected before you leave. We'll be happy to help you find an affordable solution!


Schedule a checkup:

If your vehicle is in need of any service, such as an oil change, tire rotation, or alignment, make sure to schedule a checkup before you head out. Being dedicated to routine auto maintenance is important in protecting the investment of your ride and extending its life. A vehicle that is in top shape will have a better chance of staying reliable and working efficiently.

Save yourself the trouble of breaking down on the road by remaining prepared this year. Make sure these components are in working condition to get your vehicle ready for your next road trip. Avoid the tow truck and ensure a safe ride to your destination by making sure your car performs its best. Brush up on our routine maintenance tips to double-check you've covered all the bases. If you're unsure whether or not your vehicle will be able to handle the road ahead, schedule an appointment with us and we'll inspect your vehicle before you go! Save on your service trip by checking out our current specials. No matter where your road trip takes you, we wish you smooth sailing on your journey!

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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The Spirit of the American Family Road Trip Remains Alive

OKEMOS, Mich.,–– Family road trips: an American tradition. As the holiday season begins, family road trips will be at an all-time high, as it's the time of year to visit family and friends. Although road trips are the new family dinner table, parents still get stressed out. A new survey conducted by Harris Poll on behalf of Chevrolet revealed some interesting points about parents' stress derived from road trips. Through a series of questions, Chevrolet found that the spirit of the American family road trip remains alive.

Surprisingly, kids are not the source of parents' stress on road trips. Increased amounts of traffic stress parents out the most. However, in-vehicle technologies, such as Wi-Fi and USB outlets, could lead to a better road trip experience overall. Good thing Chevy offers a slew of these in-vehicle technologies and safety features that make family road trips more enjoyable, including plenty of storage space, USB outlets, 4G LTE Wi-Fi, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility. The following statistics were found from the survey:


Technology

Parents hold in-car Wi-Fi at the top of their wish list for better road trips.

• "56 percent of parents say that having Wi-Fi/internet connectivity would help make their family road trips more enjoyable."

Love for Road Trips

Families do love taking road trips together. It's the time when they can bond together and make special memories while on the road.

• "93 percent of all parents say they like or love taking road trips with their family, including more than half (53 percent) who “love” it. Of those who take road trips, 95 percent like or love them, including 55 percent who say they “love” them."

• "Spending time with family (80 percent) and exploring and stopping at interesting locations and destinations (69 percent) are parents’ top two favorite aspects of family road trips."

• "Traffic and other unexpected delays is by far the most stressful part of the family road trip, according to nearly two in three parents (63%)."

Quick Stats

According to the survey, there is indeed a perfect road trip length.

• "American parents who take road trips believe that the “perfect” family road trip length is typically six hours."

There are plenty of distractions for the kids.

• "Parents who take road trips today bring 6.6 mobile devices, on average, in the vehicle."

SUVs are the vehicle of choice on road trips.

• "Nearly two-thirds of all American parents (63 percent) say they would prefer to take a family road trip in an SUV over any other type of vehicle, with more than two in five (42 percent) preferring a large SUV with three rows."

Kids have a say, too.

• "67 percent of parents who take road trips involve their children in the planning."

Chevrolet offers many tech and safety features in its newest models, making the holidays a little less stressful. With in-car Wi-Fi as an option, families are more likely to take a longer road trip and more frequently. The newest safety features available include Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, Surround Vision, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, and many more. Chevy's goal behind providing these many features is the hope that families will have a better experience in the car and the spirit of the American family road trip will remain alive. Start shopping our Equinox and Traverse inventory to find an SUV that will keep your loved ones comfy, safe, and occupied while on the road this holiday season!

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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2018 Chevy Equinox Makes Packing a Breeze

OKEMOS, Mich., – Are you the adventurous type, but are always running out of room when you pack up your vehicle? Well, you're in luck, because the 2018 Chevy Equinox makes packing a breeze! With a foldable backseat and spacious trunk room, owners of the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox can make use of up to 63.5 cubic feet of cargo space. While cargo specs can sometimes be misleading, the Chevy Equinox was tested in the Cars.com Compact SUV Challenge and was able to pass the challenge with ease. Read on to see how it was tested and how it stood up to the Compact SUV Challenge!

"Cargo included a 23-inch adult bicycle and an adjustable cardboard box tested in two sizes: 37 inches long, 6 inches wide and 41 inches tall, which we fit behind the backseat, and an expanded 70-by-6-by-41 inches, which we fit with the backseat folded. And to top it off, a pair of golf bags. Though we laid the cardboard box flat for visualization of the cargo area, general practice for transporting a cardboard box like ours with a flat-screen TV inside is to keep the TV upright." - Cars.com

The Compact SUV Challenge put the Equinox's carrying capacity to the test, but it was able to pass with flying colors. The Equinox, equipped with a flat load roof, made loading all of the materials an easy task. The cargo area has two releases for split portions of the back seat, allowing drivers to maximize cargo space in an easy and organizable format. Its foldable seats allow for an easy transition from the full seating of midsize crossover to its impressive cargo capacity of 63.5 cubic feet. The Equinox is also equipped with cubbies for smaller items, a large center console, two wells, and a net between the cargo wells in the back to carry groceries. You can fill your Equinox to the brim with just about anything you'll need for your journey!

If you're heading out on a road trip or vacation soon, you'll want to make sure you have enough room in your vehicle to pack everything. Luckily, the 2018 Chevy Equinox makes packing a breeze so you won't have to worry about carrying capacity or running out of space. Want to get a closer look at what the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox can do for you? Download the 2018 Chevy Equinox Brochure to get a closer look at trim levels, optional and standard features, and much more! After checking out the brochure, be sure to browse our Equinox inventory to find new and used Equinox vehicles available for you to test drive. Find something you like? Call us and let us know right away!

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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Components to Check Before Your Next Road Trip

OKEMOS, Mich., – Don't let your vehicle break down during a road trip. Whether you're unable to leave your driveway or you stall out in the middle of a crowded freeway, having your vehicle break down during a road trip can be a very frustrating encounter. The best way to combat this, however, is by remaining prepared. Keep an eye on these components to check before your next road trip so you don't end up sidelined on the road waiting for a tow truck.

Oil Level

Your oil helps to regulate the temperature of your engine, preventing it from overheating by lubricating important internal components. Typically, oil changes occur every 5,000-8,000 miles, or whenever your vehicle owner's manual recommends. You can check your oil in just a few simple steps. First, pop the hood of your engine and find the engine's dipstick (it should look like a plastic ring sticking out of your engine). Next, remove the dipstick from the engine and wipe it on a cloth. After this, stick it in your engine again and remove it. The dipstick will have "FULL" and "EMPTY" labels on its side. If the oil level only reaches to the "EMPTY" component, it's time for an oil change!

Tires

You're going to need working tires in order to enjoy your road trip! Over time, your tires can wear down on their tread, reducing their ability to effectively grip the road. You can check the tread of your tires using the "penny method" to save yourself some time. Place a penny face down between the grooves of your tires. If you can't see Lincoln's head, your tires have adequate tread and should be able to handle the road ahead. If you can see his head, however, this means your tread has worn down and your tires need to be replaced as soon as possible! Make sure you know how to take care of your tires to ensure they last a long time. 

Brakes

Does braking take longer than it used to? Does it pull your vehicle to the side as you slow to a stop? Does it make a loud grinding or screeching noise when you brake? If you answered yes to any of these questions, it may be time to have your brakes looked at. Make sure you know when to get your brakes inspected to keep everyone on the road safe, including yourself and your passengers! Repaired or replaced brakes can make all the difference in the world, whether you're going on a road trip or simply commuting to work.

Cooling System

On long drives, your vehicle's engine can overheat with increased usage. Your engine's coolant serves to reduce and maintain an even temperature with your vehicle's engine. It's one of the most important components of your vehicle, and without it, overheating could permanently damage your vehicle! The easy part, however, is that it is extremely easy to check. Engine coolant is typically replaced every 30,000 miles, or whenever your vehicle owner's manual estimates. Pop the hood of your engine and look for the large plastic container labeled "coolant" or "antifreeze". The container should have markings on the side to indicate whether or not you have enough coolant, and if it's below the required level, you'll need to refill it! Bring in your vehicle if you need your coolant replaced and we'll take care of it right away.

Heating and Air Conditioning

Nobody wants to drive in a vehicle that's too hot or too cold. Malfunctioning heating and cooling units can make everyone in the vehicle irritated, making the drive an all around exhausting experience. Checking your heating and air conditioning is easy: if your vehicle doesn't heat up or cool down fast enough (or at all), it could be an issue with your system. Have your heating and cooling system inspected before you leave. We'll be happy to help you find an affordable solution!

Save yourself the trouble of getting lost on the road by remaining prepared this year! These components to check before your next road trip can make your whole experience a lot better is they're all in working condition. Make sure all of your vehicle is up to speed before you find yourself waiting for a tow truck! If you're unsure whether or not your vehicle will be able to handle the road ahead, schedule an appointment with us and we'll inspect your vehicle before you go! If you schedule an appointment with us, you can save money on routine maintenance, tires, and more with our coupons, too. No matter where your road trip takes you, we wish you smooth sailing on your journey!

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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