A Michigander's Ultimate Spring Bucket List

MT. PLEASANT, Mich -- Hello Spring! After a long, cold and snowy winter, warmer weather is finally here. If you're ready to get out of the house and do some adventuring, you're in luck because few states do spring activities quite like Michigan. No matter what type of fun you're looking for, there's bound to be something on our bucket list you'll love. 

TULIP TIME FESTIVAL 

This time-honored Michigan tradition is perfect for flower lovers and shutterbugs alike. Roam through fields of over 5 million tulips, or enjoy the traditional Dutch market, parades, and fireworks. 

Get More Info: http://bit.ly/2WumM4W

ISLE ROYALE NATIONAL PARK

Michigan's most remote national park lies uninhabited all winter long - save for the resident moose and wolf packs. But once April rolls around this hidden gem is alive with activity. Participate in wildflower hikes, paddling on Lake Superior, enjoy the rugged trails, or star gaze at the Rock Harbor Lodge. 

Get More Info: http://bit.ly/2HOZcN1

EASTERN MARKET 

So much more than a farmer's market, this Detroit tradition is a destination in the heart of the city with a little something for everyone. Browse wares like plants, fresh foods, jewelry, natural beauty products, furniture and more! Or enjoy some live music and the district's amazing restaurants. 

Get More Info: http://bit.ly/2TDxjbO

GAME DAY 

Spring means a new season for the Tigers. Come out and root for the team at Comerica Park, you might even get a special gift with the purchase of your tickets too! 

Get More Info: https://atmlb.com/2TY8Z9Q

MOVEMENT 

If you're an electronica lover then you HAVE to go to movement. This annual electronic dance music event celebrates the Techno heritage of Detroit and is sure to get that urge to groove out of your system! 

Get More Info: http://bit.ly/2HW3Ibw

SOO LOCKS OPENING DAY 

Michigan is home to the Soo Locks, one of the largest and busiest lock systems in the world. Head out to opening day in late March and watch the first freight of the season head out to the Great Lakes. 

Get More Info: http://bit.ly/2HHI7ED

GREENFIELD VILLAGE TOURS

Tour the 80 acres of property full of historic homes and buildings that makes up Greenfield Village in an authentic Model T. Stop by Thomas Edison's laboratory, the Wright Brothers bicycle shop, a Cotswold Village and so much more! 

Get More Info: http://bit.ly/2CFgkAz

NATIONAL MOREL FESTIVAL 

A festival entirely dedicated to the Morel mushroom? Is there anything more Michigan? Learn all about how to hunt, pick, and utilize these elusive fungi. Plus, browse mushroom-themed art, enjoy dishes created with these flavorful shrooms, and more! 

Get More Info: https://puremi.ch/2FwZaFN

ANN ARBOR FILM FESTIVAL 

One of the oldest avant-garde and absurdist film festivals in North America, this event has been a tradition since the 1960s. Spanning six days, it features over 40 submissions of all lengths and genres annually, so whether you love animation, documentaries, or performance-based works, there will be something for you. 

Get More Info: https://puremi.ch/2JJgFYQ

ZOO DE MACK 

This 51 mile bike bash is a Michigan rite of spring. It begins at Boyne Highlands Resort and ends at Mackinaw Island. Leisurely ride through some of the most scenic areas of our state and enjoy parties and events along the way. 

Get More Info: http://bit.ly/2JJelkq

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.

5 Road Trip Tips For Your Summer Adventures

MT. PLEASANT, Mich. -- Summer is finally here in the Mitten State, and that means it's road trip season! There are plenty of adventures to be had on a road trip through Michigan, but there are a couple things you should know in order to ensure your travels are enjoyable as well as safe. Graff Mt. Pleasant is here with 5 helpful road trip tips to make your next excursion the absolute best!

1. GET SLEEP

The National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration estimates that about 100,000 vehicular accidents are caused by driver fatigue each year, resulting in about 1,550 deaths, 71,000 injuries, and a whopping $12.5 billion in collision repairs.

Before heading out on a long drive, it is essential that you get enough sleep the night before, at least 8 hours according to the National Sleep Foundation. If you're traveling with other people of driving age who have their license, plan to switch out driving duties. If you're going it alone, work a hotel stop into your itinerary.

2. FUEL UP

It might seem like a no-brainer, but about 800,000 drivers run out of gas each year on the road due to overestimating how much fuel they have left in their tank. The good thing about road trips is you'll mostly be cruising highways, which eats up less gas. However, Graff Mt. Pleasant recommends you do some preliminary research such as:

• How many miles will you be traveling? Most GPS services will tell you when you're planning your route. You should also look into how many gas stations are on the way, the more the better.

• How's your vehicle's gas mileage? Gas mileage tells you how many miles you can travel before your car uses a gallon of gas, and you can easily look this up online or in your owner's manual. Additionally, it's good to know how many gallons your gas tank can hold, which can also be found using the aforementioned sources.

Most importantly, if your fuel light comes on, DO NOT be a hero. Otherwise, make sure you have either roadside assistance or a no-spill gas can on board so you can hoof it to the nearest gas station.

3. INSPECT YOUR VEHICLE

Before you head out on your road trip, make sure your car is running at its best. This not only saves you money on the costly repairs that can result but is also essential to your safety. Here's a checklist of things to inspect before a long drive. If you're uncomfortable performing the check yourself, feel free to schedule a service appointment with Graff Mt. Pleasant! Our friendly and knowledgeable service technicians will be happy to answer any questions and make sure your car can handle the trip!

4. CHEW GUM

During a long drive, chewing gum has actually been proven to increase circulation and improve alertness, which are both important things to have since you'll be sitting for long periods of time while piloting two tons of motorized metal.

5. HAVE SOME SOUND

A killer playlist is not only an essential part of the road trip experience, but it's also a good way to keep you alert while driving. Music helps to stimulate the brain and break up the monotony of driving, which in turns cuts down on fatigue and boredom. Audiobooks work too!

Summer is road trip season in Michigan, and we hope you've found these 5 tips helpful! From all of us at Graff Mt. Pleasant, we wish you safe and happy adventures! Need a new ride before you head out? Check out our inventory of Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, and Cadillac vehicles 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

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Chevy Partnered With Acclaimed Data Scientist to Create Cross Country Road Trip

MT. PLEASANT, Mich.,–– Have you ever wanted to take a road trip across the entire country? Now, you can. Chevy partnered with an acclaimed data scientist to create a cross country road trip for families heading on vacation this spring. Randy Olson developed a custom map using a specific algorithm that planned a route through all 48 contiguous states, stopping at some of America's favorite family destinations along the way.

A recent national survey held by Chevrolet found that spending time with family and exploring new places were U.S. parent's top two favorite parts about taking family road trips.

This data-driven map includes stops at rip-roaring theme parks, national landmarks, and famous attractions all around the country. With less backtracking and less stress in mind, Olson designed this route in the most efficient approach. It was constructed in a way easiest for families to navigate. Get an interactive view of the map here.

If you were to take this daring journey around the states, you would spend a total of 214.56 hours behind the wheel and log 13,389 miles on the odometer, which does not include time or mileage for overnight breaks and any detours along the way.

"This map is designed so road trippers can start anywhere and drive as much or as little as they like," said Olson. "Across the U.S., people can create their perfect route, whether staying close to home or embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime 48-state journey."

Keeping passengers entertained and connected on the go is important to Chevy. The in-vehicle tech, such as 4G LTE Wi-Fi, built-in navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, is offered in a majority of new vehicles such as the Chevy Traverse, Equinox, and Trax. Most new models come equipped with the latest and most advanced safety features that are ideal when logging hours behind the wheel. These include:

• Surround Vision
• Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert
• Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert
• Rear Park Assist
• Rear Seat Reminder

Chevrolet has also earned numerous Dependability Awards by J.D. Power, including Most Dependable Compact SUV, Midsize SUV, Large Light Duty Pickup, and Midsize Car.

Looking for a shorter road trip? Olson also curated shorter routes for families looking to explore different ares of the country more in-depth. His routes include the Midwest, the Northeast, the West Coast, Texas, and Florida.


There's no need to map out your route this spring break season. Chevy partnered with an acclaimed data scientist to create a cross country road trip that the whole family will be sure to enjoy. Before you hit the road, it's important to make sure your vehicle is prepared to handle all conditions when logging hundreds of miles. Schedule a service appointment with our team to get your vehicle up to speed on routine maintenance.

If you're looking to upgrade your ride, take a look at our new vehicle inventory. From compact sedans to full-size SUVs, we've got plenty of options to choose from. With the latest tech and safety features, you'll feel confident behind the wheel of a brand-new Chevy. Contact our friendly and helpful sales team if you have any questions or would like to take a test drive! Safe travels wherever you're headed this spring season!

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

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How to Prepare for a Spring Break Road Trip

MT. PLEASANT, Mich.,–– If you've got plans to escape the frigid winter weather of Michigan and are taking a trip to driving somewhere south for Spring Break, we're very jealous of you. However, we would caution you that before you embark on your road trip, your vehicle may not be up to the task without some help! Families, college students, friends, and pretty much everyone should make sure to know how to prepare their car for a spring break road trip. Read on to learn the tips and maintenance suggestions to make your vehicle comfortable and capable of taking the long drive to your Spring Break destination.

Get an Oil Change

Getting an oil change before a long road trip is very important. Your motor will be running continually for long stretches of miles (and hours) and if your oil is old it won't do its job effectively, lubricating your engine's internal components and keeping them from warping and doing serious damage.

Check Your Fluids

The fluids in your vehicle help keep your internal and external parts clean and running properly. Washer fluid and coolant are easy enough to replenish in your vehicle by picking some up at your local auto parts supplier, or our service technicians can always top off your fluids during your next service appointment at Graff Chevrolet Mt. Pleasant Service Center. With long hours of driving to your spring break destination, your coolant is especially important to help keep your engine from overheating, so make sure you've filled up before you leave for your trip. You don't want to wind up with engine trouble stuck on the side of the road midway to your destination.

Check/Replace Your Wiper Blades

Your wiper blades may be a bit worse for wear coming out of the winter season this year, and ineffective at clearing your windshield properly during rain, sleet, or snow. So before you head out on your spring break road trip, it's important to check your windshield wiper blades to see if they need to be replaced. You don't want to get caught driving on the highway during heavy rain and have to pull off because you can't see the road well due to your streaky windshield wipers, adding more time to an already long road trip.

Check Your Battery

After winter, it's important to get your battery checked to make sure that the freezing cold weather hasn't reduced its capabilities. Our experienced technicians run a simple diagnostic test to see if it's time to get a new battery.

Check Your Tire Tread

As one of the most important components of your vehicle, you want to take tire care seriously. Check your vehicle's tire tread to ensure they are in good enough condition to handle a long trip and effectively stop and handle well out on the road. If you're not sure, use the penny test to determine if your tire tread is satisfactory. Place a penny in-between the treads on your tire with Lincoln's head facing down, if the tread doesn't cover the top of his head, it's time for new tires.

Do Some Spring Cleaning

Your vehicle will likely get a bit messy during your road trip from food wrappers, receipts, crumbs, and other such debris. So, why not start your trip with a tidy vehicle and do some spring cleaning. At the very least, take your vehicle to a car wash and make sure to vacuum up all the road salt and debris tracked in during the winter.

Plan For Rest Time & Switch Drivers

If you're heading out on a long road trip, plan on taking some to rest time from driving and/or switch drivers frequently. Drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol.

Create a Roadside Preparedness Kit

To prepare for anything and everything, we recommend creating a roadside preparedness kit. Stock your car with bottled water, road flares, a first aid kit, a fire extinguisher, blankets, and make sure you have a spare tire and jack just in case.

Bring a Map

While it's easy nowadays to rely on your phone's GPS and navigation systems, you may wind up driving through places with bad cell phone signal. If you take the wrong turn, you could wind up way off track and add more time to your trip. So, bring an old-fashioned paper map to ensure you'll always know how to get where you're going!

Don't Forget a Mobile Phone Charger

Whether its an adapter so you can charge your phone in the car, or a mobile battery to take on your vacation, consider investing in a way to keep your phone from dying on your spring break trip.

Get Roadside Assistance 

If you don’t have roadside assistance through your insurance, consider getting AAA. That way, if your vehicle breaks down while on your trip, you’ll always have someone ready to come to the rescue!

So before heading out on vacation, make sure you've prepared your vehicle for your fun and excited Spring Break road trip! Also, maybe you're looking for a new ride to show off this spring? Browse our online inventory of stylish and capable new 2018 Chevrolet models! Then, schedule a test drive with our friendly sales staff to experience them in person and find the right sedan, SUV, or truck to suit your lifestyle!

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

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Make Family Road Trips Less Stressful with Chevrolet Technology

MT. PLEASANT, Mich.,–– During long drives to visit extended family during the holidays or summer road trips, traveling with your family all in one vehicle can be stressful. Traffic, packing, cost, and keeping the kids entertained are a few of the many stressors named in a recent survey conducted by the Harris Poll on behalf of Chevrolet. Fear not though, as the American road trip is still alive and well, with 93% of the 1,063 U.S. parents of children under 18 polled saying they enjoy road trips with their family. To make family road trips less stressful with Chevrolet technology we recommend reading on to learn about the all new Chevy models and available features.

Based on the results of the survey, two things stood out to Chevy as the main stresses and hindrances that could be avoided for parents nationwide. The most stressful thing about road trips according to American parents is traffic and other unexpected delays, with 63% of those polled indicating as such. Additionally, 56 percent of parents say that having Wi-Fi/internet connectivity would help make their family road trips more enjoyable and less stressful.

So, to make road trips a little easier for parents, Chevrolet has unveiled the all-new 2018 Traverse and 2018 Equinox designed specifically with the American family in mind. Both SUV's now offer ample storage space, USB outlets, and available 4G LTE Wi-Fi as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto2 compatibility. No more playing the alphabet game in the car to pass the time unless you really want to! Instead, the drive will go much quicker now that your kids can use their devices to stream movies and play games to pass the time. Plus, the 4G LTE Wi-Fi will allow drivers to always to know where traffic and backups are ahead of them on their road trip route and how to get around it, saving you from sitting in the car any longer than you have to.

Safety concerns while driving are also mitigated by the 2018 Traverse and 2018 Equinox and their advanced safety features. New safety technology including Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Rear Park Assist, Forward Collision Alert, and many other features have been engineered to take some of the guesswork out of driving and parking while ensuring the security and well-being of the passengers.

The 2018 Chevrolet Traverse and 2018 Chevrolet Equinox are the perfect vehicles for long drives because of their new technology and safety features, comfortable interiors, and by having room enough to fit the whole family and all of their luggage. So make family road trips less stressful with Chevrolet technology this holiday season. You'll be more relaxed and ready to spend quality time with your family once you arrive! If you're interested in the 2018 Traverse or 2018 Equinox, check our inventory online or call our dealership to speak with our friendly and knowledgeable sales staff. They can even schedule a test drive for you so you can experience these stylish and capable SUV's for yourself. Or, if you're interested in learning more about Chevrolet technology features, contact our dealership staff online with any questions you may have. We'll be more than happy to explain all of the innovative new features and how they can improve your driving experience.

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

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Travel Tips for Thanksgiving With Young Children

MT. PLEASANT, Mich.,–– Whether you have a long or short drive to your Turkey Day festivities this year, driving with your little ones can sometimes be a hectic endeavor. While we're sure you have a few tricks that help make long drives easier, we recommend following our travel trips for Thanksgiving with young children. The easier your traveling goes, the more you'll be able to enjoy the turkey and other delicious food!

Allow for Plenty of Travel Time

The best way to make sure you arrive on time to Thanksgiving dinner is to give yourself a little cushion, especially when you've got to load the little ones into the car. Or, you may run in o any number of mishaps or slowdowns that may happen with your kids such a spills, tantrums, or anything else. So, start your trip 15-20 minutes early to make sure the whole drive goes smoothly.

Bring Some Snacks

While your children will be filling up on turkey, potatoes, green beans, and pumpkin pie at dinner they're likely going to need something to tide them over on the drive. Granola bars, veggies, or some nuts are great snack options!

Have a Road Trip Toy Bag

This is a more long-term solution for road trips and long drives in the future, but a handy tip to keep your kids occupied and happy is to keep a toy bag in your car at all times. This way even if their favorite stuffed animal, action figure, or doll is forgotten at home, you'll have the bag of toys ready to go.

Don't Forget the Car Seat Tray

For snacking, drawing, and just a general way to keep this tidier on you drive, don't forget the car seat tray at home. It will help keep any spills or stains from occurring on the interior of your car!

Bring Along Some Art Supplies

They have the potential to be a little messy, but bringing along some art supplies like crayons, paper, and stickers are a great way to keep your kids creatively stimulated during a long drive. We recommend making sure you have a sturdy car seat tray or a travel lap desk for older kids.

Turn On the Electronics

Bringing your tablet or a portable DVD player to keep your kids engaged with their favorite shows or movies. Nothing has revolutionized the road trip for parents more than modern electronics!

Warm Up The Car Ahead of Time

This time of year can be very chilly and to avoid runny noses and the sniffles, make sure to warm your car up before everyone in your family hops in to head out. Getting your car nice and toasty will make the ride more enjoyable for everyone.

So this Thanksgiving, use these tips to make traveling with young children much easier on yourself. Your whole family will be much happier and ready to talk to your extended family when you reach your destination. You can also ensure your holiday travels go smoothly by completing our Fall Car Care maintenance routine. You don't want your car to break down once the freezing temperatures start affecting your vehicle's internal components.

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

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The Best Places to View Fall Colors in Michigan

MT. PLEASANT, Mich. – Nothing beats the changing colors of fall. Lush and vibrant greens become breathtakingly beautiful reds and oranges, and ordinary drives turn into works of art. If you're on the hunt for the best places to view fall colors in Michigan, you've come to the right place! This fall, discover the best scenic drives, viewpoints, and must-see destinations the Mitten has to offer!

U.S. 2 - St. Ignace to Naubinway

One of the Upper Peninsula's most breathtaking drives, this route includes all of Michigan's best features, such as beautiful stretches of sandy beaches along Lake Michigan, a vast expanse of the Sault St. Marie State Forest, and the gorgeous Cut River Bridge, pictured above!

Total Drive Time: 45 minutes

Must-See Destination: The stunningly scenic US-2 Scenic Overlook!

M-22 - Traverse City to Empire

A scenic route so famous that it has a clothing brand named after it, M-22 has been named the Best Scenic Drive in the United States for its incredible display of fall colors and unforgettable viewpoints.

Total Drive Time: 2 hours

Must-See Destination: The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park!

Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive - Sleeping Bear Dunes

If you plan on visiting the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park any time soon, you won't want to miss out on the 7.4-mile drive along the spectacular view of the Glen Lakes, Lake Michigan, and the Sleeping Bear Dunes themselves!

Total Drive Time: 15 minutes

Must-See Destination: Hike through the Cottonwood Trail for a closer look at the fall colors!

M-119 - Cross Village to Harbor Springs

Also known as the "Tunnel of Trees", this twisting two-way drive is a little off the beaten path, but without a doubt one of the prettiest drives in Michigan due to its vibrant and colorful surroundings. 

Total Drive Time: 45 minutes

Must-See Destination: Stop by the Crooked Tree Breadworks on your journey and try their famous pepper parmesan rolls!

National Black River Scenic Byway

Located on the western side of the Upper Peninsula, the National Black River Scenic Byway is approximately 14 miles long and is packed with scenic stops and parks to explore!

Total Drive Time: 30 minutes

Must-See Destination: The breathtakingly beautiful Rainbow Falls!

M-123 - Newberry to Paradise

Another incredible drive through the Upper Peninsula, M-123 takes you through the Newberry State Forest and the Tahquamenon Falls State Park, ending near Lake Superior in Paradise, Michigan.

Total Drive Time: 45 minutes

Must-See Destination: The tranquil and scenic Tahquamenon River!

M-65 - River Road National Scenic Byway

Beginning in Oscoda and ending in the Huron-Manistee National Forest, all 22 miles of this beautiful byway is packed full of scenic stops and trailheads for you to explore!

Total Drive Time: 1 hour

Must-See Destination: The Westgate Overlook or any of the drive's other noteworthy stops!

Huron River Drive - Ann Arbor to Dexter

For a colorful drive through the Lower Peninsula, the Huron River Drive out of Ann Arbor travels along the winding Huron River for the entirety of its journey, finishing off at the Hudson Mills Metropark. 

Total Drive Time: 30 minutes

Must-See Destination: Take in the unforgettable view at the Bird Hills Nature Area in Ann Arbor.

If you have adventure in your heart and are yearning for new experiences, take a trip to see the best places to view fall colors in Michigan! You won't regret the opportunity to witness the beautiful color palette the Mitten will have on display this season. Before you head out on your road trip, take a look at our Fall Car Care guide for tips on keeping your vehicle in top shape as the temperatures begin to drop. If you find anything that may require attention, schedule a service appointment with us to have your vehicle looked at right away! Our ASE-Certified technicians will get your vehicle ready to go for your road trip in no time!

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

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Summer Road Trip Tips

MT. PLEASANT, Mich.–– The warm weather and packed gas stations can only mean one thing: road trip season is underway! If you're heading on a road trip this year, you can save money and enjoy the journey with these summer road trip tips! Not only will you save money, but you'll also be able to maximize the fun of your vacation! Whether you're taking a cross-country trip or are simply heading up north for a getaway, these go-to tips will give you the fuel you need to make any inconveniences you encounter simply a bump in the road!

• Charge Your Phone: Before you leave, make sure your phone has a full battery! You won't want to leave without it, and in case you encounter an emergency like a flat tire, having a fully charged phone will allow you to call for help if you need it.
• Play the Alphabet Game: If your kids get bored and you need to entertain them, play the Alphabet Game! While you drive, look for a word that starts with the letter A, then from there, go down the alphabet until you reach Z! It's a great way to distract the family, especially when you reach that pesky letter Q!
• Burn a CD: Go a little retro on your trip and burn a 12-track playlist on a good old-fashioned CD! That way, if you hear those songs in the future, it'll be a great reminder of the fun times you had on your vacation. If you have the whole family collaborate, you can create a special memory that everyone can share!
• Pack a Lot of Snacks: Keeping a steady supply of snacks for everyone will eliminate or reduce the chances of time consuming stops and keep everyone occupied. Pack a wide range of snacks, from string cheese to trail mix to keep everyone full and satisfied!
• Check on Your Spare Tire: You never know what kind of situation you may run into! Make sure your spare tire is full of air and has good tread in case you encounter a flat tire and need to get to an auto shop. If you have the space in your vehicle, swapping out the "doughnut" for a full sized spare tire will make a huge difference!
• Do a Full Vehicle Check-Up: From fluid levels to tire tread, every part of your vehicle plays a huge part in making sure you end up at your destination! If you bring your vehicle into our service center, we can inspect it to make sure it's good to handle your adventure!
• Clean Your Car Before Your Trip: Doing this will open up more space for packing and make everyone's experience more enjoyable. You can even eliminate the chaos of messiness that will build up on the trip by regularly cleaning your vehicle during your vacation!
• Bring Lots of Loose Change: Toll booths can pop up out of nowhere and some can be surprisingly costly. Make sure you have loose change available to you to cover the costs so you won't have to pay the bill at a later date!
• Ask a Local Where to Eat: When you make stops on your trip, try asking around where you should grab a bite to eat. Chances are, they know the area a little better than a guidebook would, and can point you to a cheaper and tastier restaurant!
• Keep an Open Plan: The best advice we can give to people looking to go on road trips is to not have a very rigid plan. You may surprise yourself at the amount of fun you run into by just going with the flow! There are plenty of hidden gems in the United States and other parts of the world that can only be found if you stumble across them, so keep an open mind and schedule!

In our opinion, even the best road trips seldom go according to plan! So make sure you're ready for any situation this year with some summer road trip tips to maximize your fun this season! This summer, enjoy every second of your journey with some amazing memories and great tricks to enjoy the adventure ahead. If you want your vehicle looked at before you leave or need maintenance done, schedule an appointment with us and we'll be more than happy to help! 

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

Follow us on: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Google+, and YouTube

5 Safe Driving Tips for the Holiday Weekend

MT. PLEASANT, Mich. – The Fourth of July is fast approaching and vacation plans are finalizing. Before you hit the road for a weekend full of sun and smiles, our team at Graff Mt. Pleasant wants to make sure you arrive in one piece with our 5 safe driving tips for the holiday weekend. We also want to make sure you have the right vehicle for your trip, like a 2016 Chevrolet Equinox. This busy weekend will bring high traffic and difficult driving. If you plan ahead, stay calm and flexible, prepare for the unexpected, and have the right vehicle, your holiday weekend can start the moment you buckle-up your seat belt! Below you will find the 5 safe driving tips for the holiday weekend that we suggest so you can get to your vacation destination safely. 

Plan Your Route
In this day and age your GPS and your phone can help you get to where you need to be. But the road can be unpredictable. Be prepared for your trip by planning out the route in which you will take. Make yourself familiar with the distance and time. We also recommend having a back up route if you have to change your plans suddenly.

Be Flexible
Everyone is traveling and trying to get to their vacation spots at the same time. As the roads get crowded with drivers the best thing you can do is be flexible. Don’t get angry when you find yourself in back up traffic, or if you are directed to a detour. Give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination so you can have a more relaxing driving experience.

Don’t Speed
We know you want to start vacation as soon as possible! However, with crowded roads and high traffic highways, getting there fast is not the safest option. Speedy drivers can turn into angry and distracted drivers. Instead of focusing on the vehicles around you, you become more occupied with the finished line. Take a deep breath and follow the posted speed limits. 

Be Ready In Case of an Emergency
We recommend being ready for anything every time you get behind the wheel. If you are traveling a long distance, make sure you are prepared for any emergency. Have an emergency kit in your vehicle, keep your phone battery charged in case you need to make a call, and make sure you never let your gas tank drop too low if you are traveling in rural areas.

Have Your Car Properly Serviced
Before you take any long distance driving trip, you will need to make sure your vehicle is ready for the road. While traveling your car could face unfamiliar roads, a lot of stop-and-go traffic, and high temperatures. Have your car, truck, SUV, or crossover’s routine maintenance done before you leave on your trip.

At Graff Chevrolet Mt. Pleasant we want your car to be ready for the summer holiday so you don’t have to worry. Our Summer Car Care pages discuss everything from helping your fuel efficiency with fuel system maintenance, to keeping you and your passengers cool with cooling and A/C system maintenance. Our Summer Car Care pages teach you about the different ways to protect your vehicle from the sun, and much more! Schedule your summer car care service appointment our website today.

If you are getting ready for a family vacation, you will want to make sure you have a vehicle that will get everyone there safely and comfortably. Visit our sales team at Graff Chevrolet Mt. Pleasant and test drive the 2016 Chevrolet Equinox. This family friendly midsized SUV offers everything from top of the line safety features, connectivity technologies, plenty of cargo space, and a spacious interior that will make your travel experience more comforting. Get behind the wheel of a 2016 Chevrolet Equinox and discover why everyone is talking about one of Chevrolet’s top selling vehicles.

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

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Top 5 Road Trip Games

MT. PLEASANT, Mich. -- The summer season is beginning. As we welcome warm weather and a lot of sunshine, we also welcome vacation plans and road trips. When you pack up the family for your next road adventure don’t get stuck hearing the words, “Are we there yet?” or “I’m bored!” We have put together the top 5 road trip games that will get your whole family involved. Kids young and old will have fun looking for road signs, restaurant logos, and different license plates as you drive to your destination. Check out the different print offs and games below!

Road Trip Scavenger Hunt 

Restaurant I Spy

Guess Three About Me Conversation Game

Road Sign Bingo

License Plate Game

Put the tablets and phones away! On your next road trip your family will love laughing and spending time together with our top 5 road trip games. Make the most of your driving experience this summer and never the words “I’m bored” again. At Graff Chevrolet Mt. Pleasant we want everyone to be comfortable while being in the car for long periods of time. That is why we want you to stop by and test drive a new 2016 Chevrolet Traverse. You will love the flexibility it offers, along with a quiet and spacious ride. Contact our sales professionals to schedule your test drive.

Are you still wondering on whether to buy or lease your next vehicle? Let our experts help you with our new and improved Buying vs. Leasing page! You can compare and contrast the options of buying or leasing a vehicle. Want to take it to the next level? Visit our How to Buy and How to Lease pages for an in depth look at the buying and leasing processes. This way you will be more prepared before you step into the dealership. If you have more questions about vehicle financing, contact our finance department 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

Follow us on: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Google+, and YouTube

Healthy Road Trip Snacks

MT. PLEASANT, Mich. - Warmer weather and low gas prices can only mean one thing: road trips! This year, it is projected that more families will load up in their car more than ever before. Thus, we gathered some healthy road trip snacks that are easy to pack and will keep those annoying hunger pains at bay! They will definitely keep you from pulling off at every exit to get fatty, greasy drive-threw food, which does nothing for you health wise anyway! 

1. Veggies with Ranch Dipping Sauce: We get it, most of the time kids will only eat their veggies with some sort of dip. Try carrots, celery and red pepper with one of those made-for-travel ranch containers! 

2. Beef Jerky: Never underestimate the power of the jerky! This little snack is PACKED with protein, low in calories and will be able to handle your more carnivorous cravings! Our favorite brand is Krave Beef Jerky, with tons of different flavors, you're sure to fall in love! 

3. Muffins: Homemade are the best option, the store bought ones are a little gut-heavy. Blueberry or chocolate chip muffins are always a crowd pleaser! Take a look at these! 

4. Cucumber and Avocado Sandwich: This hearty whole gran sandwich made with thinly sliced cucumbers, mashed avocados and light cream cheese will fill you right up! 

5. Bananas: The nature made road trip snack! Filled with potassium, these will give you that last boost of energy to make it to the campsite! 

6. Turkey and Cheese Tortilla Roll Ups: This is a wonderful tasting snack that is quick and easy to assemble. The best part is you can modify the recipe to fit you or your child's preferences. This would also work with ham and cheese, blt, chicken salad, or veggie! 

7. Granola Bars: The store bought kind is fine, however they usually contain a lot of weird and unnecessary ingredients but by making your own, you can monitor the sugar levels and add your own ingredients! Try these! These are perfect for the kids, and provide a quick burst of energy! 

8. Apples: Apples are a GREAT source of fiber, and they are proven appetite suppressants. By munching on one or some apple slices, you'll definitely be able to calm that grumbling tummy. Here’s a tip, if you want to much on apple slices but are afraid of them going brown, squeeze some lemon juice over them. The acidity prevents the apples from browning. 

These healthy road trip snacks are so easy, and sure to please any hungry crowd! Do you have any go to road-trip snacks or tips? Share them with us! 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
Follow us on: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Google+, and YouTube