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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25 Activities to Do with Your Kids this Summer

OKEMOS, Mich., – The school year is over and summer vacation is here! Don't let your kids just sit inside all summer playing on their electronics and watching tv. Get them to play outside and be active with fun trips and activities all season long. Use our list of 25 activities to do with your kids this summer to have fun and make memories that will last a lifetime.

1. Visit a Harris Nature Center.
2. Have a picnic at a local park.
3. Make a fort out of cardboard boxes.
4. Set up a lemonade stand.
5. Go on a bike ride to get ice cream or other treats.
6. Visit the local library.
7. Go put-put golfing.
8. Visit Potter Park Zoo.
9. Have a bubble party. 
10. Play Giant Jenga.
11.  Have a squirt gun fight.
12. Play Lawn Twister.
13. Go horseback riding
14.  Play glow-in-the-dark Capture the Flag.
15. Create a mini obstacle course in your backyard.
16. Plan a day trip to one of the Great Lakes.
17. Camp out in the backyard one night.
18. Pick berries at a farm.
19. Play Giant Scrabble on your lawn.
20. Do sidewalk chalk.
21. Catch lightening bugs.
22. Organize a neighborhood kickball game.
23. Visit the Farmer's Market.
24. Bake cookies.
25. Fly a kite.

There's so much fun to had during the warm weather and you can keep your children excited and engaged all vacation long with our list of 25 activities to do with your kids this summer! Additionally, make sure to take care of your vehicle this season with our Summer Car Care tips to get it ready for any long road trips and to deal with the heat. Schedule a service appointment online today to get your vehicle in great running condition!

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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Summer Car Care at Graff Chevrolet Okemos

OKEMOS, Mich.,–– Your car is a significant part of your life. Whether you prefer joy rides or simply heading from point A to point B, taking care of your vehicle is very important. With Michigan's unpredictable weather, keeping a close watch on vehicle maintenance will keep you enjoying your drives without any issues! Routine care maintenance will keep your vehicle safe from any unnecessary damage and can help extend its life so you can enjoy the fresh air and activities of the summer. Read up on our Summer Car Care tips to learn how to keep your vehicle running smoothly this summer. When Okemos starts warming up, keep a close eye on these key components of your car to ensure a safe and enjoyable car ride:

Cooling System

When it gets hot, your air conditioning is working double-time and can wear down making hot days a miserable experience. If you feel weak airflow or lack of airflow coming from your vents, you'll want to get it fixed before the heat starts to kick in. Service is typically very affordable and doesn't take much time, so make sure you get it taken care of before it starts to get too hot out there!

Fuel System 

It's road trip season, which means gas prices can go up and fuel systems can wear down with extensive driving. If your fuel system starts to wear down in any way, it can affect your fuel economy and gas mileage, which can make your trips a lot more expensive. Keep a close eye on any emergency lights and be sure to take care of any issues so that you can travel all over the state this summer without any automotive issues.

Exterior Vehicle Lights

Late nights and nighttime driving tends to increase in the summer, and remaining visible on the road is extremely important to your safety. Getting your lights fixed in advance can improve your visibility and assist with nighttime driving, which can help you keep an eye out for deer or other road hazards. Make sure your lights are working this summer so you can drive safely when the sun goes down.

Cosmetic Vehicle Repairs

The outside of your vehicle is just as important as the inside. Chipped or cracked glass can greatly reduce visibility, and rust from extensive use can wear down your vehicle, causing additional damage. If these repairs are left untreated, they can make car rides very risky, especially with damage through rust. Repairing these exterior issues can make car rides much safer in the short and long run.

Sun Protection

UV rays can damage your skin, but did you know that they can also damage vehicles? The increased heat can cause your engine and other interior parts of your vehicle to heat up, which when added to the heat of driving can warp and damage components. Purchasing a sunshade or regularly washing and waxing your vehicle's exterior can reduce the risk of interior and exterior damage.

Summer can be the most enjoyable time of the year, but it's important to minimize the stress on your vehicle by following our Summer Car Care tips. Watching out for any big issues that may come up will help you make the most of your summer while also avoiding any extensive and costly maintenance to your car. If you have any questions or concerns, our Service Center staff would be happy to assist you with scheduling service to your vehicle!

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 Has Lowered Their 4G LTE Data Pricing

OKEMOS, Mich. – Have you been thinking about getting a new data plan for your Chevy vehicle? Or maybe you are almost ready to re-new your current plan? Well you are in luck! Chevrolet has lowered their 4G LTE data pricing. Now when you buy Chevrolet’s OnStar 4G LTE data plan you will be paying half the price! Chevrolet was the first automaker to offer 4G LTE throughout its entire vehicle collection. In two years they have sold more than 2.1 million OnStar 4G LTE connected vehicles, and in that time consumers have used more than 3 million gigabytes of data. With the new cut prices, even more people can enjoy the connectivity when they get behind the wheel of a Chevy. Take a look at how the new prices of the OnStar 4G LTE data plan have changed since June!

Data Plan                        Old Price                                 New Price

1 GB/Month                      $20                                            $10

4 GB/Month                      N/A                                            $20

10 GB/Month                    $80                                            $40

20 GB/12 Month               ($150 for 10 GB/ 12 Months)   $150

Now that Chevrolet has lowered their 4G LTE data pricing, they hope to see more and more Chevy drivers purchase the data plans. OnStar’s data plan provides drivers with 4G LTE Wi-Fi, which helps them stay connected with email and social profiles, access their favorite applications, and customize their favorite music selection. To learn more about OnStar’s data plan you can view the website at: https://www.onstar.com/us/en/4glte-subscriber.html

You can experience Chevrolet’s OnStar 4G LTE data plan at half price when you take home a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu at Graff Chevrolet in Okemos, MI. The Chevrolet Malibu comes equipped with the latest Chevrolet MyLink technology that works with OnStar to give you the fastest 4G LTE Wi-Fi there is. Now you can have a more entertaining and personal driving experience. To see our Graff Okemos Chevrolet Malibu deals, browse through our 2016 Chevrolet Malibu online inventory. You can also schedule your Malibu test drive with our team on our website today!

At Graff Chevrolet Okemos we offer great Chevrolet Malibu’s with the latest technology, but we also offer vehicle service tips on your current car, truck, SUV, or crossover. Visit our website and get the latest on Summer Car Care for your vehicle. On our Summer Car Care page you will learn the ins and outs on how to take care of your vehicle during the hot summer months. Read about keeping up with your cooling and A/C system, your fuel system, your external lights, and any cosmetic damages you may have. We also provide tips on vehicle sun protection and how to keep your exterior and interior safe from UV rays. If you are ready to schedule your summer car care appointment, contact our service team online.

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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Celebrate the Camaro Turning Fifty

OKEMOS, Mich. – This August Chevrolet is planning a series of events as they celebrate the Camaro turning fifty. Since the Camaro was first introduced in September of 1966, it has become a muscle car icon and hasn’t slowed down yet. The upcoming events will take place in Lansing and Detroit. They will highlight the history and reflect the love consumers have had for the Chevy performance vehicle throughout the years. If you have yet to experience the power of the Camaro, stop in to Graff Chevrolet Okemos for a first look at the 2016 Chevrolet Camaro. You will be ready for the road and ready for the upcoming Camaro celebration. Take a look below at some of the events happening in Michigan next month!

Lansing Grand River

On August 18th you can visit the General Motors Lansing Grand River plant for a tour and a closer look at where the Camaro is built. Camaro owners will be able to park in a special area with their vehicle. Activities include a car show, heritage display, and discussions with Camaro team members. There will also be onsite food venders and a Camaro 50th merchandise tent.

*Due to popular demand this event is full.

Detroit Camaro Fifty Rally and Woodward Dream Cruise
On August 19th Camaro drivers are invited to attend the event at Joe Louis Arena Riverfront parking lot. They can enjoy coffee and get prepared to lead the Camaro Rally toward Woodward Avenue. The event will begin at 7:30 AM and the rally will start at 9:45 am. Camaro drivers can then drive the famous cruise route on Woodward Avenue into the afternoon.

For more information about how you can celebrate the Camaro turning fifty and a look back at the Camaro over the years, visit the website at www.camarofifty.com. 

If you are feeling left out by the other Camaro owners, our sales team at Graff Chevrolet Okemos can fix that! We offer 2016 Camaros with different trim levels and features. Put the excitement back in your life as you experience the amazing horsepower, and the latest technology and wireless connectivity. You will turn heads with the new sleek body design and everyone will love the interior styling. To schedule your test drive, contact our Graff Chevrolet Okemos dealership today!

Not only do we offer the new 2016 Chevrolet Camaro models, but we can also help your current vehicle get in muscle car shape with our Summer Car Care maintenance! Discover how caring for your fuel system or cooling system can help your vehicle’s performance. Learn how to take care of your A/C system and external lights. Also find tips and tricks when protecting your vehicle from sun damage or repairing cosmetic damages. Our ASE Certified technicians are here to help your vehicle last longer, and keep you safe on the roads. You can read more about our Summer Car Care on our website, and schedule your next maintenance appointment with our team 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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Neighborhood Games For Kids

OKEMOS, Mich. – This Michigan summer has been beautiful! Now is the time to have kids enjoy the outdoors with their friends and neighbors. If you hear the words “I’m bored” then introduce these three great neighborhood games for kids. Each game is perfect for large groups and requires a lot of running. By playing with a wide variety of kids, your children learn teamwork, problem solving, and develop their social skills. Each game only requires a big a space and participation, so they can be played anytime! At Graff Chevrolet Okemos we care about our young passengers and the time they get to enjoy their summer, and that means thinking about their safety on the road. That is why we also provided more information below on the safety features of the new 2016 Chevrolet Traverse at our dealership. So get everyone together and enjoy these great neighborhood games for kids!

Red Rover
This outdoor classic requires quite a bit of kids but can be fun once it gets going. The group will divide into two teams, A and B, with equal amounts of people in each team. They will line up facing each other, with a large amount of space separating them. Everyone must join hands. Team A will yell “red rover, red rover, send (insert name) on over!” The player from team B will then run as fast as they can to the other side. The object of the game is to break though the joined hands of the other team. If the player does break through, someone from team A must go back to team B with the player called. If that player does NOT break through, they must join team A. The teams will rotate calling for players.

Red Light Green Light
The racing game with a twist! This game does not require a large group, but the more the merrier! Everyone lines up side-by-side. Then one person, who is the announcer, will go to the opposite end of the yard, or wherever you are playing (Note: if playing with fast runners the wider space the better). The announcer on the opposite end will yell “Green light!” and the group will start running towards them. During this time that person can yell “red light” and then “green light” whenever they please. Players will stop on “red” and run on “green”. The object of the game is to get past the announcer. The last person to cross will be out. You continue playing until one person is standing. That last person will be the next announcer.

Freeze Tag
The game of tag that can keep going and going. Freeze tag is a classic version of the game we love so much. In this game the person who is “it” will tag runners as usual. The difference? If you are tagged you freeze in place. Being frozen doesn’t mean you are out of the game. Other runners can run past you and tag you to unfreeze. So how does the game end? If the person has everyone frozen, then they get to pick the next person to be “it”. 

  

Now that you have some ideas on how to get the young ones outside, have them stretch their legs with our fun neighborhood games for kids! Safety is always important and at Graff Chevrolet Okemos we recommend parent supervision when playing these games or any time your kids are outside running around. When it comes to safety for a large group we also recommend the 2016 Chevrolet Traverse. This Chevy SUV offers top safety features including OnStar connectivity, Lane Departure Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Forward Collision Alert, and Side Blind Zone Alert. Now you can keep all of your littlest passengers safe in Chevrolet’s “Best Family Car of 2014”! Contact our dealership and schedule your test drive today.

Not only do we sell safe vehicles, but at Graff Chevrolet Okemos we want your current vehicle to drive safe as well. That is why we put together our Summer Car Care section on our website. Our Summer Car Care discusses seasonal maintenance on your vehicle’s external lights, fuel system, A/C system, and cooling system so your vehicle runs properly during the summer months. It also covers different ways to protect your car, truck, SUV, or crossover from sun damage and offers different repair tips to cosmetic damages that you can work on which may be affecting your vehicle. If you are ready to get your current car in summer condition then contact the Graff Chevrolet Okemos Service Center to schedule your service appointment.

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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The Chevrolet Camaro Through The Years

OKEMOS, Mich. – This year Chevrolet is celebrating the 50th anniversary of one of its most classic performance vehicles, the Camaro. Proven to become an American icon, the Camaro has stood the test of time as a fan favorite. The Camaro has survived six different generations and does not look like it is slowing down. The newest 2016 Camaro model is the most advanced yet and you can get a close up look at Graff Chevrolet Okemos. But before you get in the driver’s seat, let’s take a look at the Chevrolet Camaro through the years. 

First Generation:
The first generation of the Camaro was during 1967-1969. It was a time when muscle cars, drag racing cars, and road racing cars were becoming popular. The 1967 and 1969 Camaro models also each served at the Indy 500 pace car, creating a long lasting relationship with Chevrolet and Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Second Generation:
The longest running model in Camaro history was the second generation, running from 1970-1981. The European-influenced styling gave the Camaro it’s best year ever in 1979 with 282,571 sold.

Third Generation:
The third generation Camaro ran from 1982 -1992. It premiered an all-new architecture with a more aggressive styling. This was also the generation that introduced the first Camaro hatchback.

Fourth Generation:
The fourth generation improved the Camaro’s performance with higher-power engines. The new style incorporated a fast-raked windshield, which gave the car a sleeker profile. The fourth generation ran from 1993 – 2002, and the car saw a redesign in 1998.

Fifth Generation:
The Camaro saw a hiatus from 2002 to 2009, until the newest 2010 model was introduced. The fifth generation ran from 2010 to 2015 and focused more on the heritage of the performance vehicle. The fifth generation Camaro went on to sell more than 500,000 models and outpaced its rivals for 5 years in a row.

Sixth Generation:
We now welcome the newest generation with the 2016 Chevrolet Camaro. This Camaro features a stronger architecture, top of the line technologies, and the highest-ever levels of performance. The 2016 Camaro has earned the 2016 Motor Trend Car of the Year award and will lead the way for up coming 2017 models.

As we take a look back at the Chevrolet Camaro through the years it is no surprise this performance classic has become a Chevrolet favorite. Have you always wanted to test drive one of Chevrolet’s most popular performance vehicles? Well you can at Graff Chevrolet Okemos! Our sales team can walk you through the new 2016 Chevrolet Camaro and get you one the road in no time. You will get first hand experience with the Camaro’s horsepower, latest technology, and amazing new design. Contact our team and schedule your test drive today.

At Graff Chevrolet Okemos we want you to get Camaro-like performance from your current vehicle all summer long with our Summer Car Care pages. Our Summer Car Care takes you through the benefits of having your fuel system and A/C and cooling systems serviced in the warmer months. You will learn about the importance of external light care, and any cosmetic repairs that could be done while the weather is nice. The summer season brings the hot sun, so take a look at our sun protection page for tips on protecting your vehicle’s interior and exterior. You can schedule your Summer Car Care appointment online or by calling our 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!

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5 Easy DIY For The Fourth of July

OKEMOS, Mich. – The holiday weekend is right around the corner! If you have found yourself just as busy as we have been, you could be running around making last minute party plans. At Graff Chevrolet Okemos we try to make everything easy from car buying, to vehicle maintenance services, to even party planning! That is why we have put together our 5 easy DIY for the Fourth of July. These 5 DIY decoration ideas are perfect for the last minute party planner. We also can provide other ways to make life easier when it comes to the car shopping experience. So take a look below at some ways you can celebrate Independence Day with our 5 easy DIY for the Fourth of July!

Painted Lawn Stars

Why keep the decorations for indoors only? Kids will love the painted lawn stars and these will definitely get the neighborhood in the holiday spirit. 

Mason Jar Candles 

These jar candles are both easy and elegant! They will also look great on any table in the house, or on the patio. 

Bandana Table Cover

This fun and creative table cover is not only patriotic, but washable so you can use it year after year!

Luminary Cans 

Light the way with luminary cans! They can help the celebration extend into the night, before the fireworks show of course. 

Red White and Blue Paper Chains

Paper chains are so easy the kids can even help! Have the whole family join in on giving some hand-made love to your Fourth of July décor. 

Not only can we help make the Fourth of July holiday easier, but we can help make your car buying experience easier too! At Graff Chevrolet Okemos we work to find you the best vehicle for your lifestyle at an affordable cost. Our online inventory is available 24/7 so you can start shopping at a time that is most convenient to you! If you want a closer look at a specific Chevrolet model, take a look our vehicle overview pages. These pages provide more information on each car, truck, SUV, or crossover we carry so you have a better understanding of what you are shopping for! Our website also provides online chatting with our knowledgeable staff to give you even quicker access to our experts. Not only do we love helping our customers at the dealership, but at our service center as well!

Our Graff Chevrolet Service Center is here to help you with any vehicle maintenance you may need serviced. Our team of experts wants to make your summer services easier with our Summer Car Care pages. On our website you will learn about the importance of summer maintenance on your fuel system, cooling and A/C system, and even your external lights. Our Summer Car Care also gives you tips and advice on sun protection and cosmetic repairs for your vehicle. If you are looking to schedule your summer car care 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 3 Car Seat Safety Tips

OKEMOS, Mich. – The safety of drivers and even their smallest passengers is extremely important to us at Graff Chevrolet Okemos. That is why we have put together our top 3 car seat safety tips. If you are expecting a new baby, or had questions about your current car seat, our 3 tips will help you better understand the components that go into car seat safety. Protecting your child’s life while in the car is top priority. Take a look below at how our 3 tips can help make car seat safety easier than ever.

1) Do Your Research

You wouldn’t make a large purchase of a house or even a car without doing research, so why purchase a car seat without it? There are so many brands and type of car seats out there, that you will want a better understand of which car seat will fit your needs. Here are a few things to keep in mind when research a new car seat:

• Has there been a recall on the car seat?
• Is this type of car seat expired?
• Can the car seat adapt to your child as they get old?

Purchasing the car seat is not the end of your research. Vehicle safety and car seat safety is continuously being tested and advancing. You should always try to stay up-to-date with the current laws and regulations.    

     

2) Know The Right Car Seat to Purchase

Knowing which type of car seat is right for your child is one of the biggest decisions you will have to make. The type of car seat you purchase will be based on the age and size of your child. You can research the different regulations that specify which seat your child will be the safest in. Here are the 3 different types of seats to choose from:

• Rear facing – The rear facing seat is the safest option for your infant. It works to move with your child in the incident of a crash and reduces the stress to a child’s neck and spine.
• Forward facing – The forward facing seats are built for children who have outgrown the rear facing seat based on their age and weight. This seat comes with a front harness and tether strap to keep your child secure in the incident of an accident.
• Booster seat – Booster seats are for children who have outgrown the forward facing seat. They are designed to help children properly fit vehicle seat belts when they are too small to comfortably sit with one on their own.

3) Know Proper Car Seat Installation

Make sure you are properly installing your car seat before you place your child in it. If a car seat is not installed correctly in your car, your child could face serious injuries in the case of an accident. Make sure to thoroughly read the car seat Instruction Manual and your vehicle’s Owner’s Manual for proper installation guidelines.

By following our top 3 car seat safety tips you can feel better knowing that your child is safer every time you buckle them up in the car. Keeping up to date on car seat regulations and making sure to adjust the seat as your child grows, not only saves their life, but also give them a more comfortable ride in the car. At Graff Chevrolet Okemos we want even the smallest passengers to be safe in the vehicle. If you are looking for a vehicle with even more safety technologies then stop by our dealership and test drive a new 2016 Chevrolet Cruze. The new Chevy Cruze offers safety features like Forward Collision Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alerts and comes with 10 standard air bags. Contact our sales professionals and schedule a test drive today.

Our team at Graff Chevrolet Okemos works many ways to keep your vehicle safe. Our Summer Car Care pages help you learn the importance of vehicle maintenance during the summer season. On our website we walk you through keeping you vehicle’s fuel efficiency high with fuel system service tips, we talk about how to keep up your external light maintenance so you never have to drive in the dark, and we even talk about the importance of your vehicle’s cooling and A/C system during the summer so you and your vehicle don’t over heat. We also talk about servicing the different cosmetic repairs that you can work on while the weather is nice, and we discuss different ways to protect your vehicle’s interior and exterior from UV rays with our sun protection tips. If you have questions about your vehicle’s routine maintenance visit our service FAQ page. To schedule your summer car care appointment contact our Graff ChevroletService 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!

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3 Tips for Teen Drivers

OKEMOS, Mich. – Congratulations! If you are a teen who just received their driver’s license or learner’s permit, you now have the ability to drive a vehicle and taking a stepping-stone into adulthood. Even though you are allowed to drive a vehicle that doesn’t mean you know everything. Being on the road unpredictable events could happen at any moment. At Graff Chevrolet Okemos we work to help smart drivers and keep young drivers safe. That is why we put together these 3 tips for teen drivers. These tips are for new teen drivers to keep in mind as they continue their driving education in and out of the classroom. If you are a teen and starting to drive take a look below at our 3 tips:

Listen To Your Parents
We know listening to your parents while you’re driving may not sound fun, but your parents are coaching you because they want you to be a safe and alert driver for the rest of your life. It may sound like they are saying the same things over and over again, but let’s face it, they have more experience than you. Your parents have been driving longer than you have. Try to understand where they are coming from and let them guide you into being a more thoughtful driver.

Practice, Practice, Practice
You may have passed your driver’s test but you are still new at driving alone. The best way to get comfortable behind the wheel of a vehicle is to practice everyday. Start with short trips to the grocery store or other places around town that you have been to before. Also practice small trips on the highway. Remember that just because you have your driver’s license doesn’t mean you don’t have to drive around with mom and dad in the passenger seat.

Be Aware of Driving Distractions and Safety Hazards
We know it is fun to have your friends with you, and how tempting it is to drive across the country with them once you have your license. However, having a car full of your friends is a serious distraction. Other distractions include eating while driving and using a mobile device. Before you get behind the wheel of a vehicle remember to think about how many people are in the car with you and if that is the smartest decision. Also think about if your mobile device is in a place that would become a temptation.

Another way to help keep you safe while driving is trying to limit the amount you drive at night. Nighttime driving can impair your vision and driving while tired can lead to accidents. Lastly buckle up! 

Our 3 tips for teen drivers are here to help every teen or new driver for when they get behind the wheel. Parents if you are getting prepared for your teen to start driving on their own, make sure the vehicle they are driving is going to keep them safe as well. At Graff Chevrolet Okemos we can get you behind the wheel of a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu. The new Malibu not only have the top safety features like OnStar capabilities and various collision alerts, but they also have an available feature called Teen Driver. The Teen Driver feature activates special settings every time your teen hops in the driver’s seat, for instance turning the radio off until their seat belt is buckled. Contact our sales team at Graff Chevrolet Okemos for more 2016 Chevy Malibu information and to schedule a test-drive today!

Looking for ways to get your current vehicle ready for a teen driver? Check out our new Summer Car Care page on our website. There you will learn the different ways to prepare your fuel system, external lights, and cooling and A/C system for the summer season. You will also learn sun protection tips and suggestions for cosmetic repairs. To schedule your Summer Car Care appointment contact our Service Center and have our factory trained technicians get your vehicle ready for your teen driver and the upcoming summer season!

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 Put The 2016 Silverado’s Steel Bed To The Test

OKEMOS, Mich. -- Chevrolet has always taken pride in their toughest pick up truck, the Silverado. Recently, Chevrolet put the 2016 Silverado’s steel bed to the test. Chevrolet wanted to show consumers the strengths and benefits of a steel bed, opposed to an aluminum bed made by other competitor truck models. To test both pick up truck beds, Chevrolet dropped 825 pounds of landscaping blocks from the same distance on to the trucks. The results were clear. The 2016 Chevrolet Silverado’s steel truck bed held up much better than the competitor’s aluminum bed. Take a look below at the benefits of having a steel truck bed:

Steel bed formation. Chevy’s Silverado truck bed is made from a high strength steel alloy material. The steel bed is geometrically formed with a strategically roll-forming process that enhances the steel material strength of the bed.

Steel could withstand more joules of impact. During the testing the steel bed could withstand up to 90 joules of impact energy. The aluminum bed could only withstand 30 joules of impact energy. This proved that the steel bed could hold up more impact with any kind of job or obstacle it would be faced with during everyday use.

Minor impact after landscaping block test. When Chevrolet tested the truck beds during the landscaping block test, the Silverado’s steel bed resulted in having scratches and dents. The aluminum bed showed scratches, dents, and even small punctures after viewing the results.

Lesser impact after toolbox test. Chevrolet performed an additional toolbox test. They dropped a metal toolbox from the same position on the side of the truck beds. The aluminum truck bed saw sizable punctures and gouges. The steel bed showed only small or minor puncturing, nothing that would result in a major repair service.

By proving to consumers the benefit of their strong truck beds, Chevrolet put the 2016 Silverado’s steel bed to the test. After facing landscaping blocks and metal tool boxes, Chevrolet proved the Silverado is perfect for the everyday driver, and the heavy duty worker. If you want to get your hands on a new 2016 Chevrolet Silverado stop by Graff Chevrolet Okemos today. You will love the towing capabilities, the new technologies, and the premium interior of the newest Silverado model. Contact the sales team today and schedule your test drive!

At Graff Chevrolet Okemos we want you to not only have the toughest truck around, but we want your current vehicle to stay in top shape as well. Our Summer Car Care pages give you the best tips and recommendations for keeping your vehicle in the best condition during the summer months. We discuss fuel system, cooling and air conditioning system, and external light maintenance. We even give you advice and tips on cosmetic repairs and sun protection for your vehicle. To schedule your upcoming Summer Car Care maintenance appointment contact our Service technicians. They will have your car back on the road and ready for summer in no time.

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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Seasonal Summer Car Care At Graff Chevrolet Okemos

OKEMOS, Mich.-- The summer season can be a time for fun outdoor activities. It brings longer days and warmer weather. We plan cookouts, bonfires, and long road trips. Often times the busy season causes us to overlook our vehicle maintenance. At Graff Chevrolet Okemos we want your vehicle to be ready for whatever the summer may bring, that is why we have put together our seasonal Summer Car Care page. If you are planning a long trip, take a look at our new page for information on your fuel system, external lights, and even your cooling system to make sure you are ready for your drive. We also make sure your vehicle is ready for the summer sun with sun protection tips and cosmetic repairs you can fix up while the weather is cooperative. Take a look below for a glimpse into our Seasonal Summer Car Care at Graff Chevrolet Okemos and see how you can get your car, truck, SUV, or crossover in the best summer condition.

• Cooling System – On this page you will learn the benefits of having your cooling system and A/C system worked on during the summer months. Prevent your vehicle and your passengers from overheating with our Cooling and A/C system maintenance tips.
• Fuel System – Get the most out of your fuel system during the road trips and vacations. The fuel system page will discuss the different ways your fuel system can be serviced and how it helps your vehicle perform better and last longer. 
• Lights – The lights, especially your external lights, are very important but often over looked. Travel safely this season by maintaining your lights and learn about the different types on our seasonal lights page. 
• Cosmetic Repairs – The summer season is the perfect time to get your vehicle in tip-top shape! Check out our seasonal cosmetic repairs page for tips and tricks about working on the dings, dents, and cracks your vehicle may have gotten throughout the year. 
• Sun Protection – The summer sun may sound great, but it can be damaging to your vehicle. On this page you will learn sun protection tips for the exterior and interior of your car, truck, SUV, or crossover.

Make the most of the warmer months with seasonal summer car care at Graff Chevrolet Okemos. Our new summer car care pages will take you through the seasonal vehicle maintenance of your cooling system, fuel system, and external lights. You will also get advice on different cosmetic repairs that are perfect for working on while the weather is nice. We also provide sun protection tips to protect the interior and exterior of your car. To schedule your summer car care maintenance appointment you can contact our Graff Chevrolet Okemos Service Center. Our ASE Certified Technicians can help inspect, repair, and replace any of your summer car care needs. For more tips and tricks you can visit our routine maintenance page on our website, or our service FAQ page 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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