Wednesday, April 25, 2018

5 Delicious Dishes for Cinco de Mayo

5 Delicious Dishes for Cinco de Mayo

MT. PLEASANT, Mich. -- Picture it: May 5th, 1862. Mexico. The Count de Lorencez leads a force of 8,000 French soldiers under orders from Napoleon III to occupy the city of Puebla, strategically situated between the capital of Mexico City and the country's main Atlantic port, Veracruz. At the time, the French Army was the best in the world. Well-equipped, highly trained, and undefeated for nearly half a century. Much to Lorencez's chagrin, he greatly underestimated the tenacity and strength of the significantly less equipped, less trained, and considerably outnumbered Mexican army led by General Ignacio Zaragoza who sent the French packing and prevented them from reaching the capital.

This victory over the invading French was inspirational to wartime Mexico and helped establish a sense of national unity and patriotism. It also sent a message to the rest of the world that the nation was not to be underestimated, despite not being as advanced in military and infrastructure at the time.

Today, Cinco de Mayo continues to be ceremoniously commemorated in Mexico. However, in the United States, it has become an all-out celebration of Mexican culture as a whole including music, art, films, and dance.

Although for many people, one particular thing comes to mind: the tasty, tasty food.

In preparation for Cinco de Mayo, we at Graff Mt. Pleasant would like to share with you 5 delicious dishes you absolutely need to try.


5 Delicious Dishes for Cinco de Mayo


1. MEXICAN STREET CORN

A classic Mexican street food of grilled corn on the cob slathered in a creamy chili and lime sauce topped off with Cotija or feta cheese.



5 Delicious Dishes for Cinco de Mayo

2. SMOKY CHIPOTLE AND BACON GUACAMOLE

This smoky, salty guac dip is great for parties. Pair it with chips or even use it as a tortilla spread when making tacos, burritos, etc.



5 Delicious Dishes for Cinco de Mayo

3. BAKED CHICKEN TAQUITOS

Using a healthier no-oil baking method, these crispy baked chicken taquitos are an easy-to-make finger food.



5 Delicious Dishes for Cinco de Mayo

4. TEX-MEX STYLE BEEF ENCHILADAS

Savory seasoned beef and topped with the zesty spice of pico de gallo.



5 Delicious Dishes for Cinco de Mayo

5. CHURROS WITH BITTERSWEET CHOCOLATE SAUCE

What's better than sugar-coated churros with chocolate dipping sauce for a Cinco de Mayo dessert? Nothing.



Mexican food is probably the most crave-inducing cuisine on the planet, and now you have 5 amazing recipes to try on Cinco de Mayo! We hope you've found something here to make your holiday delicious. Happy Cinco de Mayo from Graff Mt. Pleasant!

At Hank Graff Mt. Pleasant we strive to provide our customers with a car buying experience that is accommodating, stress-free and fun! Visit us at our Chevrolet dealership located at 4580 E Pickard Rd in Mount Pleasant, Michigan 48858 or our Buick GMC Cadillac dealership located at 116 N. Mission St in Mount Pleasant, MI 48858.

Websites: Chevrolet: HankGraffMtPleasant.com and Buick GMC Cadillac: GraffBGC.com

National Car Care Month: Spring for Inspection of Your Alignment and Suspension

National Car Care Month: Spring Inspection of Your Alignment and Suspension

MT. PLEASANT, Mich., -- With harsh winters and the drastic freeze/thaw cycles we experience heading into springtime, Michiganders are no strangers to terrible road conditions. Something we may not be aware of however is how much the alignment and suspension of our cars suffer when we drive over the many potholes that open up when the seasons change, and more importantly how to know when something's wrong and head in for service. Even if you don't suspect anything is amiss, spring is still a great time to schedule an inspection to make sure everything is well and good.

During National Car Care MonthGraff Mt. Pleasant wants to share with you the importance of having your alignment and suspension inspected this spring.



National Car Care Month: Spring for Inspection of Your Alignment and Suspension

ALIGNMENT

Over time, things like potholes, dirt/uneven roads, and regular driving can take a toll on your vehicle's wheel alignment. However, road conditions get particularly nasty here during the winter here in Michigan, so it's extremely important that you check up on your alignment when Mother Nature finally decides to let up for the season.

When your wheels aren't properly aligned, your car has to work harder to move thus causing its performance to suffer. Spring alignment care is important because it maximizes tire life, performance, and fuel efficiency. Scheduling an alignment check at Graff Mt. Pleasant is super easy, and here are some signs for you to look out for in the meantime:
  • Your car pulls to one side
  • Vibrations in the steering wheel
  • Visible uneven tire tread wear
  • Squealing tires
  • Your steering wheel turns while traveling straight
Of course, even if you don't notice something wrong, springtime is the perfect time to head in for an alignment inspection just in case.

National Car Care Month: Spring for Inspection of Your Alignment and Suspension

SUSPENSION

Your vehicle's suspension is responsible for controlling the bounce and impacts of certain rough road conditions and helps to keep the tires in contact with the road. It also helps to provide consistent handling, control rolling and swaying, encourages even tire and brake wear, and contributes to overall passenger comfort. Spring suspension care is especially important after experiencing treacherous road conditions during the winter (and let's be honest, even well into spring). You can easily schedule a suspension inspection at Graff Mt. Pleasant, should you notice any of the following warning signs:
  • Hard steering
  • Heavy tipping feeling when turning
  • Nose-dive stops
  • Rough ride
  • Excessive bounce
  • Low riding height of the vehicle
It's also good to just pop in for an inspection when the seasons change, to make sure everything is in top working condition.

We in the Mitten State know that terrible road conditions are a fact of life, and our alignment and suspension suffer a great deal as a result. As we head into spring, it's a good idea to have both inspected to make sure your vehicle is ready to hit the road, and certainly if you spot any of the warning signs we've listed. Spring Car Care is not only essential to protect your investment, but also ensure yours and your family's safety.


At Hank Graff Mt. Pleasant we strive to provide our customers with a car buying experience that is accommodating, stress-free and fun! Visit us at our Chevrolet dealership located at 4580 E Pickard Rd in Mount Pleasant, Michigan 48858 or our Buick GMC Cadillac dealership located at 116 N. Mission St in Mount Pleasant, MI 48858.

Websites: Chevrolet: HankGraffMtPleasant.com and Buick GMC Cadillac: GraffBGC.com


Friday, April 20, 2018

11 Famous Michiganders We All Should Be Proud Of

11 Famous Michiganders We All Should Be Proud Of


MT. PLEASANT, Mich. -- Michigan is famous for many things such as being the birthplace of a musical revolution, putting the world on wheels thanks to the automotive industry, and having some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in the nation. What you might not have known, however, is that there are many big names who call the Mitten State home!

Graff Mt. Pleasant brings you 11 famous Michiganders we should all be proud of.


11 Famous Michiganders We All Should Be Proud Of

1. ALICE COOPER

Born Vincent Damon Furnier in Detroit on February 4th, 1948, Alice Cooper's legendary career as "The Godfather of Shock Rock" spans over half a century. With his distinctive raspy voice and wild live shows, Alice Cooper invented the subgenre of "shock rock" and inspired a generation of performers that followed after him. In addition to being a musician, Cooper has also appeared on the big screen in movies such as Wayne's World (1992), Diary of a Mad Housewife (1970), and Dark Shadows (2012).


11 Famous Michiganders We All Should Be Proud Of

2. MADONNA

The "Material Girl" and reigning "Queen of Pop" since the 1980s was born in Bay City and raised in Rochester Hills, where she graduated from Rochester Adams High School with perfect grades and a dance scholarship to the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance. Known for her lighter-than-air vocals and revolutionary imagery and lyrics that became the catalysts of a revitalized discussion of feminism in America, Madonna set the stage for empowering female superstars in pop music like Pink, Lady Gaga, and Jennifer Lopez.


11 Famous Michiganders We All Should Be Proud Of

3. BRUCE CAMPBELL AND SAM RAIMI

Fans of fright know this dynamic duo as the star and director of the influential horror franchise, The Evil Dead, but did you also know that they're both from Michigan? As childhood pals growing up in Royal Oak, Campbell and Raimi would make Super 8 movies together with a camera given to Raimi by his father. Their first serious collaboration was a 30 minute short entitled Within the Woods, which was more of a proof of concept used to attract investors to produce what would be the film that would launch both of their careers. The Evil Dead enjoys a place amongst the greatest horror movies of all time and spawned three more feature-length films including a remake, video games, comic books, and more recently a Starz television series intended as a sequel to the original trilogy.


11 Famous Michiganders We All Should Be Proud Of


4. DIANA ROSS

Born and raised in Detroit, Diana Ross rose to fame as the lead singer of the Supremes who were Motown's most successful act in the 1960s, and remain the best charting girl group in American music history as well as one of the best-selling girl groups of all time. In addition to helping to catapult the musical and cultural revolution that was Motown, Ross is the most successful female music artist in history according to the Guinness Book of World Records whose legacy has inspired the work of many other musicians, as well as cleared the way for future African-American R&B and soul musicians (especially women) to achieve mainstream success.


11 Famous Michiganders We All Should Be Proud Of

5. THE WHITE STRIPES

Known for their melding of blues and garage rock, raw minimalism in composition and performance, and their signature color scheme, the White Stripes also proudly call Michigan home. Jack White grew up in a large Catholic family in Detroit as the seventh son of 10 children, while Meg hails from the suburb of Grosse Pointe Farms and worked in Royal Oak, where the two met. With humble beginnings in the underground Detroit music scene, they rose to national then international fame six studio albums later. These days the Stripes are no longer making music together, with Meg choosing to leave the public eye. Jack, on the other hand, continues going strong with his record label Third Man as well as a successful solo career.


11 Famous Michiganders We All Should Be Proud Of

6. EMINEM

Marshall Mathers may not have been born in Michigan, but this is where he was made. He got his start in the Detroit underground hip-hop scene, participating in freestyle rap battles at West 7 Mile's Hip-Hop Shop and the Shelter at St. Andrew's Hall. Eventually, he caught the ear of legendary hip-hop virtuoso Dr. Dre and went on to become one of the world's best-selling artists of all time. Eminem is praised for his technical and inventive lyrical ability, coupling a robust vocabulary with complex rhyme schemes that involve bending words so they rhyme, multisyllabic rhyming, multi-word bars, and use of melody. He even recently set the world record for Most Words in a Hit Single with "Rap God", which contains 1,560 words expertly laced through six minutes and four seconds, which averages out to be 4.28 words per second, spitting 97 of those words in one 15 second segment alone at "supersonic speed".


11 Famous Michiganders We All Should Be Proud Of

7. JEFF DANIELS

Hailing from Chelsea, MI where he still resides, Jeff Daniels is a proudly Michigan-made legend of the stage and screen with a long list of credits including Terms of Endearment (1983), Speed (1994), Good Night, and Good Luck (2005), and of course Dumb and Dumber (1994). He attended Central Michigan University where he participated in the theater program and is the founder and current executive director of the Chelsea-based Purple Rose Theatre Company. When he isn't acting, he's making music having released six-full length albums to date and performing frequent gigs notably around Ann Arbor.


11 Famous Michiganders We All Should Be Proud Of

8. KID ROCK

Robert James Ritchie, better known as Kid Rock, grew up on a sprawling six-acre estate in Romeo where he helped his family pick apples and tend to their horses. He discovered hip-hop in the 1980s and taught himself how to rap and DJ, going on to participate in local talent shows in Detroit. Since then, his eclectic sound has drawn from hip-hop, rock, and country with lyrical content ranging from humorous boasting raps to more serious social and political issues. A self-taught musician, he is said to play every instrument in his backing band. Kid Rock does extensive charity work through his Kid Rock Foundation, which raises funds for multiple causes including military veterans. He is also an advocate for affordable concert tickets, making an effort to sell those for his own performances as low as possible, and gets a percentage of concession and ticket sales rather being paid for the show.


11 Famous Michiganders We All Should Be Proud Of

9. SHERILYN FENN

Born and raised in Detroit, Sherilyn Fenn is best-known for her role as Audrey Horne on David Lynch's cult-classic television show, Twin Peaks, in the early 1990s and again in 2017 for the third season revival of the series. While she grew up to be an actress, Fenn comes from a family of music greats including jazz musician Art Quatro (her grandpa), barrier-breaking female rockers Arlene and Suzi Quatro (her mom and aunt, respectively), and Leo Fenn (her dad) who managed Alice Cooper.


11 Famous Michiganders We All Should Be Proud Of

10. JAMES EARL JONES

Born in Arkabutla, Mississippi. Made in Jackson, Michigan. After graduating from the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance, the legendary James Earl Jones began his acting career at the Ramsdell Theatre in Manistee. His over 60-year legacy includes a long list of stage and screen credits, though most people probably know him as the voice of Darth Vader in the original Star Wars trilogy, and Mufasa in Disney's The Lion King.

11 Famous Michiganders We All Should Be Proud Of

11. MAGIC JOHNSON

Hailing from Lansing and a Michigan State alum, Magic Johnson's illustrious career includes first selection overall in the 1979 NBA draft, playing point-guard for the Los Angeles Lakers for 13 seasons, receiving an MVP award as a rookie, bringing home Olympic gold in 1992 as part of "The Dream Team", and two-time induction to the Basketball Hall of Fame. After being stricken with HIV and abruptly retiring in 1991, he returned the next year to play in the All-Star game which netted him another MVP award. He then retired for another four years and returned to the Lakers in 1996 for 32 more games before retiring a third and final time. Since then, Magic has become a fervent activist for HIV/AIDS prevention.

It's always cool to see people from your home state go on to do amazing things, for themselves, their craft, and for the world. These are just 11 famous people who call our wonderful Mitten State home, but do you know any others we missed? Have you met any of those we've listed here? Share your stories with us! Additionally, as the weather continues to warm up and you start planning more weekend getaways and summer road trips, make sure to get your vehicle checked out and serviced. After a long winter, your car, truck, or SUV can have a lot of issues that need to be addressed. We recommend bringing your vehicle to our Service Center to complete your Spring Car Care maintenance routine and get it back in top working condition!

At Hank Graff Mt. Pleasant we strive to provide our customers with a car buying experience that is accommodating, stress-free and fun! Visit us at our Chevrolet dealership located at 4580 E Pickard Rd in Mount Pleasant, Michigan 48858 or our Buick GMC Cadillac dealership located at 116 N. Mission St in Mount Pleasant, MI 48858.

Websites: Chevrolet: HankGraffMtPleasant.com and Buick GMC Cadillac: GraffBGC.com

Monday, April 16, 2018

Oil and Important Fluids: Why and How to Check them for National Car Care Month

Oil and Important Fluids: Why and How to Check them for National Car Care Month

MT. PLEASANT, Mich. -- There are three important fluids that run through your vehicle and all of them serve specific purposes that affect function, performance, and efficiency. Making sure they're regularly checked, flushed, topped off, and changed is an essential part of seasonal maintenance that will improve the longevity and safety of your car. Oil, coolant, and washer fluid should be checked on a routine basis, and the start of spring is the perfect time to do so. If you're planning on spending a lot of time on the road come the warmer months, it's even more important to schedule a service appointment with us to stay safe and make sure your car is running at its best.

We at Hank Graff Mt. Pleasant are here to tell you about oil and important fluids, and why and how you should check them for National Car Care Month.



Oil and Important Fluids: Why and How to Check them for National Car Care Month


WASHER FLUID

Washer fluid works together with your wiper blades to allow you clear visibility through your windshield. Some vehicles have built-in sensors that signal low washer fluid levels on the dashboard, while others do not. In any case, it's important to learn how to check it yourself so you always have a means of clearing your windshield of precipitation and debris while driving. The opening to your vehicle's washer fluid tank can be found under the hood, indicated by a picture of a windshield on the cap. When completely empty, most washer fluid reservoirs will take a whole gallon. No matter what the level, be sure to pour evenly and slowly.

If you go the route of doing it yourself, make sure you get a pre-diluted washer fluid that's rated for the temperatures you'll be driving in, otherwise you can risk it freezing in the tank. This information is always printed on the label. Though if you're unsure about going it alone, visit our service center and we'll gladly top it off for you!


Oil and Important Fluids: Why and How to Check them for National Car Care Month

OIL CHANGE

Oil is an extremely important component of a well-running vehicle, as it lubricates the moving parts of your engine, helps to reduce heat caused by friction, keeps the engine clean, and protects it against wear. Routinely having your oil changed can help you avoid expensive damage in the long-run, as well as enhance the overall longevity of your car. Routine oil changes should be done every 3,000-5,000 miles, or sometimes longer depending on your driving habits and if your vehicle uses synthetic oil. If you're not sure, always consult your owner's manual.

However, if you have any upcoming road trips or other spring and summer activities that will put you on the road more often, stop in for an oil change to ensure your vehicle can handle it and that your engine runs smoothly.


Oil and Important Fluids: Why and How to Check them for National Car Care Month

COOLANT

Coolant, also known as antifreeze, is responsible for controlling the temperature of various engine components. It serves a dual purpose of keeping the radiators in your vehicle from freezing or overheating throughout the year. We recommend replacing your coolant every two years or 24,000 miles, whichever comes first. Different vehicles have different needs, however. So when in doubt, always check your owner's manual for your make and model's specs.

If you suspect that your engine may be overheating or detect a sweet smell while driving that might indicate a coolant leak, come visit us and our service experts can see what's going on, and top it off if needed. With warmer temperatures on the way, spring is the perfect time to check your coolant fluid checked to prevent overheating.

Now you know why it's important to check your oil and important fluids, and how to do it. All three fluids serve crucial purposes that are essential to a well-running vehicle and work together to ensure your safety as well as that of your investment. To perform their duties, however, they need your help. If you're uncomfortable checking or changing these fluids yourself, Graff Mt. Pleasant's friendly team of service specialists will gladly do it for you! Schedule an appointment today!

At Hank Graff Mt. Pleasant we strive to provide our customers with a car buying experience that is accommodating, stress-free and fun! Visit us at our Chevrolet dealership located at 4580 E Pickard Rd in Mount Pleasant, Michigan 48858 or our Buick GMC Cadillac dealership located at 116 N. Mission St in Mount Pleasant, MI 48858.

Websites: Chevrolet: HankGraffMtPleasant.com and Buick GMC Cadillac: GraffBGC.com


Tuesday, April 10, 2018

5 Fun Activities for a Rainy Day Indoors

5 Fun Activities for a Rainy Day Indoors

MT. PLEASANT, Mich. -- April showers, right? Or in Michigan's case lately, April snow showers. Either way, outdoor activities aren't exactly exciting options during this extra turbulent time of the season, but that doesn't mean there isn't fun to be had right in the comfort of your own home. For kids and adults, here are 5 fun activities for a rainy day indoors.


5 Fun Activities for a Rainy Day Indoors

1. GOOD OL' NETFLIX

It's rainy. It's snowy. It's cold. What a perfect time to forget how dismal it is outside and catch up on your favorite shows inside! Grab some snacks and drinks, plop on the couch, and call upon your good friend Netflix. Rainy days create the perfect atmosphere for a horror flick scare-a-thon, or maybe you'll finally binge every episode of that one series everyone's been borderline spoiling on Facebook. If you have kids, you can never go wrong with Disney, and most of the movies double as a fun sing-a-long!


5 Fun Activities for a Rainy Day Indoors

2. INDOOR EXERCISE ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS

Kids have a ton of energy, and we all know a rainy day doesn't change that at all. Consider some of these fun and active to-dos for your cooped-up kiddos:

  • Balloon Ping-Pong: This one doubles as a creative activity. Get a paper plate and tape a popsicle stick to the back, then get some crayons and let your kid customize their ping-pong paddle. Lastly, blow up a balloon and go nuts!
  • Dance Party: Throw on some of your kids' favorite music and have a dance party. Mix it up: When the music stops, everyone has to freeze in place until it starts again. Or add a "follow the leader" aspect, switching up dance moves as you make your way around the house.
  • Indoor Hopscotch: No really, just hear us out. Get some painter's tape and create a hopscotch grid on your kitchen or dining room floor. The good thing about painter's tape is it'll come off easily when you're done and it won't ruin your floor.
  • Hallway Bowling: Fill up some of the plastic bottles from your recycle bin with water, set them up at the end of the hallway, and have at it with any ball you have.

5 Fun Activities for a Rainy Day Indoors

3. HAVE A HOME SPA DAY

Turn a gloomy day into a relaxing one by just pampering yourself. Light some candles, burn some incense, draw yourself a hot bubble bath and kick back with your favorite music, a good book, or both. Be sure to add an exfoliating face mask to your experience, as those are super nice and relaxing as well.


5 Fun Activities for a Rainy Day Indoors

4. GAMES THAT DON'T NEED ELECTRICITY

The downside of technology as a source of entertainment is if a storm knocks the power out, there goes your fun, and wireless devices only last so much longer before they must be charged. In the event of such an occurrence, here some fun games you can play on a rainy day indoors that don't require electricity.
  • Pictionary: Draw a thing! Guess the thing!
  • Shadow Puppet Theater: Prop up a flashlight to shine on a blank wall. Brainstorm a story and use your hands to make it come to life!
  • Board Games: The classic activity that never fails.
  • Improvised Poetry: One person says a line of poetry, and the next person must make up their own line that rhymes with it, and so on.

5 Fun Activities for a Rainy Day Indoors

5. PLAN A VACATION

Why not beat the rainy day blues by planning a vacation? For real this time! Make a list of places you'd like to visit or ask your kids where they'd like to go. Research transportation, look at pictures read about fun stuff to do while you're there. And, while you're at it, schedule a service appointment with us to make sure your vehicle is at its best for this awesome road trip in the works.

Those are just 5 activities we recommend to spend a rainy day indoors. What do you like to do when the weather has you stuck inside? We at Graff Mt. Pleasant want to know! Your garage counts as "indoors" as well, why not also use the rainy day to rundown your Spring Car Care checklist? If you're thinking about getting an entirely new ride, take a look at what we have in stock and schedule a test drive!

At Hank Graff Mt. Pleasant we strive to provide our customers with a car buying experience that is accommodating, stress-free and fun! Visit us at our Chevrolet dealership located at 4580 E Pickard Rd in Mount Pleasant, Michigan 48858 or our Buick GMC Cadillac dealership located at 116 N. Mission St in Mount Pleasant, MI 48858.

Websites: Chevrolet: HankGraffMtPleasant.com and Buick GMC Cadillac: GraffBGC.com


Monday, April 9, 2018

Have Your Belts and Hoses Inspected for National Car Care Month

Have Your Belts and Hoses Inspected for National Car Care Month


MT. PLEASANT, Mich.,---We at Hank Graff Mt. Pleasant are here to share with you why you should have your belts and hoses inspected for National Care Care Month. When it comes to keeping your vehicle running in good shape, your belts and hoses are some of the most important parts of your engine because they enable your car to run! Normal use will cause them to wear down over time, but are more susceptible to damage in extreme hot or cold weather. Hot weather can add heat on top of existing friction, which causes these parts to wear down a lot faster. while cold weather on the other hand can make them stiff and prone to cracking.

By following scheduled maintenance and having regular inspections completed, you can be sure that your belts and hoses are working properly. While they don't often require replacements, inspections can catch little issues before they become big problems. We've shared some tips below on the various kinds of belts and hoses that help your car run, as well as how to spot any signs of damage.

Have Your Belts and Hoses Inspected for National Car Care Month

BELTS

Your engine's belts control things like your AC compressor, water pump, alternator, engine valve intake and exhaust, and power steering. A broken belt can completely disable your vehicle, and the changing temperatures that come with springtime can make them more prone to wear. Damaged, cracked, or frayed belts can still run but can cause even bigger issues like your engine overheating. While they don't often require replacements, it is important to get your belts inspected regularly.

There are two kinds of belts your engine uses: the timing belt and the accessory or serpentine belt.

Timing Belt: Also known as the Cam belt, the timing belt synchronizes the rotation of the camshaft and crankshaft. This helps the engine's valves open and close at the right times during the cylinders' intake and exhaust strokes. You should have your timing belt replaced every 60,000-100,000 miles or whenever your owner's manual tells you to do so, and here are a few signs to look out for that may indicate a replacement is in order:
  • Your engine "jumps" gears
  • Your vehicle is completely disabled
  • There are plastic pieces from the camshaft gears in your oil pan
  • There is loss of oil pressure (due to the camshaft pieces being in your oil)
  • You hear a squeaking noise from your timing cover
  • You hear rattling noises coming from your engine
  • You have trouble starting your vehicle
Accessory or Serpentine Belt: Most vehicles usually have one or two drive/accessory belts. Also known as the "serpentine" belt, the accessory belt gets its name from the snake-like motion it uses around the pulleys of the engine. Its job is to transport power to components like your power steering pump, AC compressor, alternator, and many others.

Water, dirt, oil leaks, and excessive heat can cause your serpentine belt to wear down very quickly. You should have it inspected every 10,000-20,000 miles, and replaced every 60,000-100,000 miles or whenever your owner's manual tells you to do so. Here are a few signs that your accessory belt might need replacing:
  • An overheating engine
  • A disabled vehicle
  • A loss of power steering
  • A squealing or high-pitched noise while accelerating

Have Your Belts and Hoses Inspected for National Car Care Month

HOSES

In the same way your circulatory system moves blood and oxygen around your body, your engine's hoses move fluids vital to your car's performance throughout its entire system. A cracked or damaged hose can lead to the leaking of these vital fluids, like coolant or brake fluid, and reduce the efficiency of your vehicle. There are several kinds of hoses inside your car:

Radiator Hoses: This hose moves coolant through your engine to regulate its temperature. Without it, your engine can overheat which can in turn case major internal damage and lead to costly repairs. Here a few indicators of a radiator hose leak:
    • Drop in coolant level
    • Smoke coming from your engine
    • Rising engine temperature
    • A bright pool of liquid underneath your vehicle
Fuel Line: The fuel line transports fuel from your fuel tank to the fuel pump, and are typically made out of reinforced rubber but can also be made out of plastic or metal. While they aren't usually a part of your vehicle's routine maintenance, it is extremely important to have them checked before the end of the fall or beginning of spring when temperatures are changing drastically. Here are some signs you may need to replace your fuel line:
    • Loss in fuel efficiency/gas tank emptying faster than normal
    • Puddles of gas underneath your vehicle
    • Smelling gasoline while driving
    • Hard starts
    • Your vehicle not starting at all
Brake Lines/Hoses: Brake lines and hoses are used to stop your vehicle when you depress the brake pedal. Some vehicles made of steel and some made of rubber, but rubber takes the majority for the flexibility it provides to your car's suspension when traveling on uneven surfaces. Here's how to tell if you have a broken brake line or hose:
    • Loss of braking ability
    • "Soft" brakes
Now that you know why, go forth and have your belts and hoses inspected for National Car Care Month! Take care of your car, and it will take care of you. Schedule an appointment with our friendly and knowledgable service team today, and we'll help you keep your vehicle running at its best this spring and get it ready for your summer adventures!

At Hank Graff Mt. Pleasant we strive to provide our customers with a car buying experience that is accommodating, stress-free and fun! Visit us at our Chevrolet dealership located at 4580 E Pickard Rd in Mount Pleasant, Michigan 48858 or our Buick GMC Cadillac dealership located at 116 N. Mission St in Mount Pleasant, MI 48858.

Websites: Chevrolet: HankGraffMtPleasant.com and Buick GMC Cadillac: GraffBGC.com

Wednesday, April 4, 2018

Clean out Your Closet with 3 Simple Spring Cleaning Steps

Clean out Your Closet with 3 Simple Spring Cleaning Steps


MT. PLEASANT, Mich.,––Give your closet the TLC it deserves this spring. There's no better feeling than having a clean, spacious, and organized wardrobe! People are creatures of habit, meaning we all tend to keep things in our possession longer than we probably should. If you have any sort of doubt about an item in your closet, chances are, it's time for it to go. Get rid of that old grey sweater and worn out pair of running shoes. It's time to clean out your closet with these 3 simple spring cleaning steps:


Step 1: Purge

Clean out Your Closet with 3 Simple Spring Cleaning Steps

We know it can be hard to let go of items that once made you dazzle. However, sometimes, you just have to let go. Go through your closet and ask yourself these 7 questions:
  • Does this fit?
  • Have I worn this in the last 12 months?
  • Is it likely I will ever wear this again?
  • Is this currently in style, and/or does this still accurately represent my style?
  • If this is damaged in any way, will I actually make the effort to get this repaired?
  • If I was shopping right now, would I buy this?
  • Do I feel confident when I wear this?
If you answer a solid "no" to any of these questions, it's time to say goodbye. Another great way to decipher what items to keep is creating three different piles. One for "keep", another for "maybe", and the last one for "get rid of". This way you can sort through all your clothes and accessories and be able to distinguish what you actually want. Don't forget the 1-year rule! If you haven't worn it in a year, it's probably time to toss it out.


Step 2: Sell, Donate, or Throw Away

Clean out Your Closet with 3 Simple Spring Cleaning Steps

Once you've decided what items you're getting rid of, it's time to figure out what you want to do with them. You have many options to choose from: sell, donate, or throw away. Selling your unwanted clothes can be a hassle and very time-consuming, but it can definitely be worth it for some extra cash to have on hand. If you have some expensive pieces that hold some real value, list them on a resale site like eBay! Now, if you have items that are really worn out or have holes or stains on them, just toss those in the trash. Whatever you have left, bundle it together in a large trash bag or box, and set it aside to be donated. Drop it off at your local Salvation Army, Goodwill, or other nonprofit institution that collects used clothes.


Step 3: Organize


Now that you've got the clothes, shoes, and accessories that you want to keep in your closet, it's time to do a little bit of reorganizing. There are three highly effective items to use for storage and organization: hangers, bins/totes, and hooks. Hangers keep the wrinkles out of your clothes and create a cleaner, less cluttered space. Bins/totes comes in all shapes and sizes. They are perfect for stacking on shelves and hiding items you don't typically use everyday. It's also a good idea to put seasonal clothes in boxes until you'll wear them again. Hooks are great for everyday jackets, belts, hats, scarves, purses, or even necklaces.

Once you've got all your handy storage supplies in order, you'll want to arrange your items in a helpful and easy way. Vacant floor space can be used for totes, bins, or even large bags. Put the clothes/shoes that you wear regularly within reach. Store seasonal bins/rarely used items up high or out of sight. Try organizing your clothing by different categories (i.e. dress pants, jeans, casual shirts, blouses, jackets, etc.). You can even sort items by color, too!


A lot of times we put spring cleaning aside because we either don't want to let go of certain items, or we don't want to take the time to do it. This spring, make the choice to clean out your closet with these 3 simple spring cleaning steps. Once you do, you'll feel accomplished, organized, and revived. It's a great feeling knowing that your space is clutter-free! Don't forget to clean out your car and perform routine maintenance for the spring season. Read our spring car care tips for information on tires, alignment and suspension, fluids, wiper blades, and spring cleaning. Make sure to schedule an appointment with our service team for any work and repairs your vehicle needs!

Hank Graff Mt. Pleasant we strive to provide our customers with a car buying experience that is accommodating, stress-free and fun! Visit us at our Chevrolet dealership located at 4580 E Pickard Rd in Mount Pleasant, Michigan 48858 or our Buick GMC Cadillac dealership located at 116 N. Mission St in Mount Pleasant, MI 48858.

Websites: Chevrolet: HankGraffMtPleasant.com and Buick GMC Cadillac: GraffBGC.com

Tuesday, April 3, 2018

Tire Maintenance Checklist for National Car Care Month

Tire Maintenance Checklist for National Car Care Month


MT. PLEASANT, Mich.,––Did you know... April is National Car Care Month? Your vehicle endures many hardships throughout the winter season. All that corrosive road salt, slippery ice, and heavy snow is gone, leaving our roads filled with nasty and dangerous potholes. These potholes are your tires' worst nightmare! Ensure your car is ready to take on Michigan roads this spring season by getting it up to speed with this tire maintenance checklist for National Car Care Month:


1. Perform Routine Tire Rotations

  • It is recommended that you rotate your vehicle's tires every 3,000-7,000 miles or every other oil change. Tires tend to wear unevenly, which is why it's important to rotate them to ensure they wear more evenly across all four of them. This will produce better handling overall. Bring your car into our service center for a tire rotation!

2. Check Out Your Tire Tread
  • Your tire's tread is what allows you to grip the road, serving as a buffer between both surfaces that keeps you safe during various weather patterns. If your vehicle has low tire tread, you'll be put at a higher risk of hydroplaning or losing grip during rainy conditions this spring! It can also increase your stopping distance, making it more difficult to stop in an emergency situation. Check your tire's tread using the penny method or have our team of experts inspect them for you!

3. Inspect Your Tire Pressure
  • The air pressure in your tires can become effected from various temperatures. It's critical that you maintain the recommended tire pressure at all times as it will improve your fuel economy, decrease risk for tire issues, and provide a much smoother ride as a whole. You can find the recommended PSI for your car's tires in the owner's manual. It's a good idea to check your air pressure in your tires every month or so. Our service team can fill up your tires if they are in need of some air!

4. Change Your Tires
  • Have you taken off your winter tires yet? If not, it's time to do so. Winter tires are only meant to handle 45 degrees Fahrenheit and below. We recommend switching back to all-season tires. If you're in need of a new set, our service experts will be happy to get your vehicle into brand-new tires! We highly recommend replacing all four at the same time, allowing for even tread wear.


Staying up-to-date with tire maintenance will ensure their effectiveness when gripping the road and will help extend their life down the road. Spring weather tends to bring slippery road conditions, making it crucial that your vehicle is up to speed on spring car care! Use our tire maintenance checklist for National Car Care Month to make sure you've covered all the bases. Consult our tire care page for more tips on maintaining your car this season. Don't forget to schedule an appointment online with our service team for a tire rotation, new set of wheels, or any other maintenance needs you may have!


Hank Graff Mt. Pleasant we strive to provide our customers with a car buying experience that is accommodating, stress-free and fun! Visit us at our Chevrolet dealership located at 4580 E Pickard Rd in Mount Pleasant, Michigan 48858 or our Buick GMC Cadillac dealership located at 116 N. Mission St in Mount Pleasant, MI 48858.

Websites: Chevrolet: HankGraffMtPleasant.com and Buick GMC Cadillac: GraffBGC.com