Happy New Year Everyone! We hope you have a fun and safe night tonight as we usher in 2013. If you're drinking tonight, please have a designated driver!
Monday, December 31, 2012
Happy New Year!
Thursday, December 27, 2012
2014 Corvette | Chevrolet
Clay Dean, Global Director of Advanced Design, discusses how the Corvette C7 Prototype made it into PlayStation's Gran Turismo and how video game fans help develop new Chevrolet products.
Thursday, December 20, 2012
2014 Silverado: Stronger, Smarter and More Capable
Chevrolet today unveiled the all-new 2014 Silverado 1500 full-size pickup. New from hood to hitch, Silverado is engineered to be the strongest, smartest, and most capable Silverado ever.
The new Silverado builds on Chevrolet’s 95 years of truck heritage, while raising the bar for full-size pickups. Among the many updates for 2014 are a new trio of powerful, efficient EcoTec3 engines; a stronger, quieter, more comfortable cab; revised steering, suspension and brakes; ingenious solutions for managing cargo in the bed and true truck capability for towing and hauling.
“Our customers rely on their trucks to meet the day-to-day challenges of earning a living, running a business and taking care of their families,” said Mark Reuss, president, GM North America. “Chevrolet is committed to giving truck customers the most-refined, best-engineered pickups in the market.”
The 2014 Silverado will become part of Chevrolet’s three-truck portfolio, designed to let customers select the right truck for their needs. It joins the Silverado 2500 and 3500 HD pickups, the ultimate tools for towing and hauling, which were new for the 2011 model year. Chevrolet is also developing an all-new Colorado midsize pickup, which will offer proven truck capability in a space- and fuel-efficient package.
Every detail of the 2014 Silverado 1500 was designed and engineered to meet the exacting requirements of full-size truck customers and to strengthen Chevrolet’s reputation for building the most dependable, longest-lasting full-size trucks – trucks with the lowest overall cost of ownership.
“Don’t let the work boots fool you. Truck customers are among the most discerning and demanding in the business,” said Jeff Luke, executive chief engineer for full-size and midsize trucks.
“The designers and engineers who created the new Silverado share this passion for trucks. They have built this truck – and tested it to the extremes – to give customers the right tools for the tough jobs, and they have created dozens of solutions to the challenges truck customers encounter every day.”
2014 Silverado 1500 at a glance
For 2014, Silverado 1500 is designed and engineered to deliver the capability – without compromise – that customers have come to expect from Chevrolet pickups.
Silverado’s exterior design blends strong Chevy truck heritage with a refined, modern aesthetic. The new design is more muscular, more functional and more aerodynamic. A twin-port grille, full-width bumper and dual power dome hood create a strong presence, which is carried through in sculpted body sides and fender flares.
The new Silverado design is about much more than just looks, however. The new front end is engineered to improve sealing for more efficient cooling, while the roof and tailgate spoiler were shaped in the wind tunnel to smooth airflow over the truck for reduced drag. New inlaid doors, which fit into recesses in the bodyside, reduce wind noise for a quieter cab.
Under the hood, the 2014 Silverado 1500 features a family of three all-new EcoTec3 engines, a V-6 and two V-8s, engineered specifically for use in full-size trucks. All three engines incorporate direct fuel injection, cylinder deactivation and continuously variable valve timing, a combination of advanced technologies not found in other competitors’ trucks. All three switch seamlessly to four-cylinder operation to improve efficiency during light load driving and all three are engineered provide more power, more torque and better efficiency than the previous versions.
The engine family includes a new 4.3L V-6 that will have ample torque to power a crew cab pickup and tow a substantial trailer, as well as a new 5.3L V-8 designed for more power, more torque and better efficiency than the current version, which is currently the V-8 fuel economy leader. A new 6.2L V-8 is engineered to be the most capable engine in any light-duty pickup.
SAE certified horsepower and torque ratings and EPA fuel economy estimates for the new Silverado will be final and available beginning early next year.
The all-new interiors of the 2014 Silverado 1500 reflect the same focus on form and function. The upright instrument panel, six-gauge instrument cluster and multiple storage options are tailored specifically to the needs of truck customers. Controls are functional, logically placed and easy to operate with work gloves on. Rear doors on crew cabs are larger, for easier entry and exit, and rear doors on extended cab models are now hinged at the front for easier access, especially in tight spots.
The new Chevrolet MyLink provides easy-to-use connectivity for the job site or the family vacation, with natural voice recognition and enough ports and power outlets to support multiple devices.
The new truck cab is stronger, with nearly two-thirds of the structure made from high-strength steel for a confident feel and improved safety. Similarly, the main rails and key cross members of the updated frame are high-strength steel with major elements hydroformed for reduced mass and improved strength.
New shear-style body mounts tune out both up-and-down and side-to-side movement for a quieter, more comfortable ride. Extended- and crew-cab models have a third set of hydraulic body mounts to further isolate the cabs. Combined with numerous other acoustic and NVH (noise vibration and harshness) enhancements, the intended result is a solid, refined feel with no loss in traditional truck capability.
The pickup box also benefits from this focus on providing Silverado customers with the right tools for the job. The box is made from roll-formed steel for increased strength and reduced mass, compared with the stamped beds used by major competitors, and it features a range of smart solutions for everyday life.
For the first time, Silverado 1500 crew cabs will be available with a longer 6’6” foot box, in addition to the previous 5’8” box, enabling customers to carry more cargo while still being able to park in many garages.
The chassis of the 2014 Silverado includes a number of customer-focused updates. A revised front and rear suspension and wider wheels provide a more comfortable ride and more confident handling. Electric power steering improves steering feel and reduces fuel consumption. New four-wheel-disc brakes with Duralife ™ rotors improve brake feel and extend rotor life.
Silverado will be available with segment-exclusive safety features such as Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning with an Active Safety Seat, and Front and Rear Park Assist. StabiliTrak with Trailer Sway Control and Hill Start Assist are standard on all Silverados.
“We have made significant upgrades in the key areas of the new Silverado, and improved almost every detail of the truck,” said Luke. “We think both Chevrolet loyalists and competitive shoppers are going to find a lot to love about the new Silverado, beginning with the very first time they sit behind the wheel.”
Engineered and validated for demanding customers
Truck customers are among the most discerning and demanding in the business. They know trucks inside out – many have owned trucks for decades. They work their trucks hard, under conditions that would shock many car owners. They have tough tasks to do, and they expect their trucks to do them, without complaint. And they expect their trucks to endure – the average age of a full-size pickup is now more than 10.4 years.
The team that designed the new Silverado went to extremes to design a new truck that would exceed the demands of these customers.
The increased power, torque and efficiency of the new EcoTec3 engine family resulted from an unprecedented level of computer analysis, including extensive computational flow dynamics, to optimize the burning of air and fuel in the cylinders. More than 10 million of hours of computational analysis went into the engine program. More than 6 million hours – about 685 years’ worth – of analysis went into the advanced combustion system alone.
Even the basics, like the new inlaid doors, were tested to the extreme, with the doors undergoing nearly 150 truck lives’ worth of testing.
The 2014 Silverado 1500 crew cab will start production in the second quarter of 2013, with other cab styles following later in the year.
Pricing will be announced closer to start of sale.
Additional Details – 2014 Silverado 1500
A modern interpretation of iconic Chevrolet design
For the 2014 Silverado, designers sought to strike the ideal balance between Chevrolet’s deep heritage in full-size pickups and a more modern, refined aesthetic. They also sought to give the new Silverado a more dramatic presence, with a heightened stance and more structural, muscular sheet metal, while also improving aerodynamics to make the new Silverado quieter and more efficient.
“Creating the new Silverado while maintaining its heritage was a challenge, but I am confident that we struck the right balance,” said Kevin O’Donnell, manager for the Silverado exterior design. “The 2104 Silverado will definitely stand out, in terms of both appearance and improved aerodynamic performance.”
The classic two-port Chevrolet truck grille, restyled headlamps and one-piece bumper wrap from fender to fender, giving the truck a wider, stronger stance. The grille of the new Silverado is designed to admit the just right amount of air, and the front is carefully sealed to provide efficient cooling with minimal aerodynamic drag.
The more aggressive design continues down the body, with sculpted body sides and prominent fender flares. Available wheel well liners provide a more finished look. Wheels range from 17 to 20 inches in diameter and all are a half-inch wider than before, for reduced tire flex and enhanced cornering and steering. Twenty-two-inch wheels will be available as Chevrolet accessories.
Special attention was paid to airflow over the truck, to improve efficiency and reduce wind noise. Most notable are the inlaid doors, which fit into body sides rather than wrapping over the roof. When combined with new triple door seals, the inlaid doors reduce wind noise and turbulence, helping quiet the cab.
Other aerodynamic details include new cab-to-box seals, shields on the chassis to smooth under-vehicle air flow, and deflectors to guide air around the rear tires. Both the roof and the top of the tailgate were precisely shaped to help manage airflow over the back of the pickup.
Also for 2014, rear doors on crew cab models are larger. The B-pillars were moved forward, the rear seat redesigned and the front seatbacks made thinner, adding about two inches to rear legroom and increasing the ease of entry and exit without adding length to the vehicle. On extended cab Silverados, the rear doors now hinge at the front, from the B-pillar, for easier access in parking lot and other tight spots.
Three all-new EcoTec3 engines
The heart of any truck is under its hood and the 2014 Silverado 1500 offers three new EcoTec3 engines developed specifically for the demands of truck duty cycles. All feature a trio of state-of-the-art technologies – direct injection, cylinder deactivation and continuously variable valve timing – that optimize power, torque and efficiency across a broad range of operating conditions.
The new trio of engines is designed to match the needs of truck customers, and to provide more horsepower, more torque and better fuel economy than previous Silverado engines.
All three engines feature an advanced combustion system for more efficiently turning fuel into work and all three are designed to seamlessly switch to four-cylinder mode to improve efficiency during light-load driving.
“We believe these engines are the most technologically advanced engines ever offered in light-duty pickups, and they are specifically designed for the way customers use trucks in the real world,” said Jordan Lee, Small Block chief engineer and program manager.
“EcoTec3 engines offer technology no other truck maker can match, and we offer it in every one of our engines, for every one of our customers,” said Lee. “It is not an extra cost feature. You get our best and most advanced technology regardless of trim level.”
To provide the dependability and low cost of ownership that truck customers count on, all three engines feature a work-tested, race-proven overhead valve design that is light and compact, and has inherently low friction for improved fuel efficiency. All three feature aluminum blocks and heads for lower weight. (For more details, see the accompanying EcoTec3 Engines release.)
The new engine family includes:
- A new standard 4.3L V-6. Its large displacement delivers the torque to power a crew cab and pull a substantial trailer, yet it can seamlessly shift into four-cylinder mode under light loads for improved efficiency.
- A new 5.3L V-8. It is engineered to provide more horsepower, more torque and better fuel economy that the current 5.3L V-8, making it an excellent choice for mainstream customers.
- A new 6.2L V-8. It is engineered to be the most capable engine in any light-duty pickup. Like the other two engines in the family, it can seamlessly switch to four-cylinder mode under light load conditions for improved efficiency in daily driving.
The 2014 Silverado 1500 is engineered to further improve efficiency by enabling the engines to operate in four-cylinder mode more of the time. For example, transmission and exhaust mounts tune out vibration that can occur when the engines are in four-cylinder mode, and an active exhaust system fine tunes backpressure and the exhaust note for smoother, quieter operation. Models with the 6.2L V-8 feature active noise cancellation to further quiet the cabin during four-cylinder mode.
All three engines feature a six-speed automatic transmission with gear ratios and shift schedules optimized for performance and efficiency. The transmissions feature Auto Grade Braking, which downshifts on downgrades to help reduce brake wear. Due to the added torque of the new V-8 engines, new 9.5- or 9.76-inch rear axles are used.
“Not only did we work to improve the horsepower, torque and EPA fuel economy estimates of all three EcoTec3 engines, but we worked hard to improve real-world efficiency as well, especially when towing and hauling,” said Lee. “We look forward to journalists and other third parties having the opportunity to test our trucks head-to-head with the competition in real world conditions.”
More comfortable, more functional interior
With crew cabs now accounting for more than two-thirds of light-duty sales industry-wide, pickups are increasingly becoming multi-purpose tools, used to run a business or earn a living during the day and transporting friends and family during the time off. To accommodate those needs Silverado designers sought to craft an interior that was quieter, roomier, more comfortable and more functional, without making it look like the interior of a car or crossover.
The result: an all new interior that sets a benchmarks for full-size trucks.
“Changes to the exterior of the 2014 Silverado can be described as evolutionary, but the updates to the interior are dramatic,” said Helen Emsley, Silverado design director. “The meticulous attention to detail and the steps we took to ensure optimal driver and passenger comfort and convenience, are reflected in the fact that the new interiors rated off the charts in customer clinics.”
Controls were located with the use of reach curves, and important controls were place closest to the driver and grouped functionally. Knobs, buttons and interfaces are large, easy-to-read and easy to operate, even with gloves on.
For example, Silverado retained the traditional column shifter, with tap-up/tap-down and tow-haul functions integrated into the lever, because it clears space in the console and is easy to operate, even with heavy work gloves. Similarly, the available integrated trailer brake control is mounted high and to the left of the steering wheel, where the driver can more naturally reach for it.
The result is a simple, well designed instrument panel – one in keeping with the ways customers use their full-size trucks.
Silverado’s available MyLink infotainment system is designed to be easy-to-use, highly customizable and capable of linking up to 10 devices. It features natural language voice recognition that allows customers to place calls, enter destinations, browse media, play music and control other functions simply by telling the vehicle what to do. There are no key phrases to remember and no need to look at a screen.
MyLink also can be operated via large, clearly labeled knobs, through integrated steering wheel controls, or through the touch screen on models with the eight-inch screen.
The system also can store up to 60 favorites including radio stations (AM/FM/XM), contacts, destinations, music and other media – a convenient feature for small businesses or owners who travel frequently.
All models also have extensive interior storage, tailored to the way customers use their trucks. Multiple USB ports, along with 12-volt and110-volt power outlets, help connect multiple devices.
A new high-wear seat cloth that is more durable and easier to clean is available and the front seats have more durable dual-density foam for improved comfort and longer life.
The goal, in each case, was to create a level of comfort and convenience usually associated with upscale cars, but tailored to the way customers use actually use their trucks.
Strengthened cabs and frames
Truck customers have the highest expectations when it comes to durability and capability – they need to know that one of the most important tools in their toolbox is going to withstand the daily punishment of their work and their active lifestyles. And they expect their trucks to last – the average truck on the road is now more than 10.4 years old.
To ensure that the new Silverado is up to the challenge, key elements of the updated frame, including the main rails and major cross members, are made from high-strength steel and hydroforming is used to improve strength and reduce mass of the front of the frame.
The cab structures are all new, and incorporate high strength steel in the A-pillars, B-pillars, roof rails and rocker panels. Ultra-high-strength steel is used in areas of the rocker panels and underbody in anticipation of new shallow-offset crash tests. In all, about two-thirds of the cab structure is made from high-strength steels, for a quieter ride, a more confident feel and enhanced performance on new, tougher government and industry crash tests.
The mounts that isolate the cab from frame have a major impact on both noise and vibration in the passenger compartment. All Silverado models now have shear-style mounts, which isolate both up-and-down and side-to-side movements, and extended- and crew-cab models have additional hydraulic mounts to provide further isolation. The result is a truck that feels much quieter, more refined and more solid than previous models.
The 2014 Silverado 1500 also features a roll-formed steel pickup box, which is lighter, stronger and more durable than traditional stamped steel boxes used by major competitors.
The use of high-strength steels and other lighter materials such as aluminum hoods, engine blocks and suspension helped offset the mass of new features such as stronger cabs, wider wheels, a larger battery and larger rear axles for V-8 Silverados. The 2014 Silverado continues to be lighter than comparable models from a key competitor.
More confident ride, handling and braking
The suspension, steering and brakes of the 2014 Silverado 1500 have been extensively updated to for a quieter, more refined ride and confident handling and braking.
The coil-over-shock front suspension features aluminum upper and lower control arms on many models that are both lighter and stiffer than previous components, along with front springs are up to 30 percent stiffer than those on current models, for more confident handling.
The 2014 Silverado 1500 features new all-electric variable-assist power steering, which improves overall vehicle handling and reduces steering effort at low speeds. Because there is no engine-driven pump, electric power steering also reduces fuel consumption and eliminates the maintenance associated with hydraulic power steering.
Four-wheel disc brakes with Duralife ™ rotors are standard. The rotors feature a hardened and strengthened surface that resists rusting, potentially doubling the life of the rotors and improving vehicle appearance. The brake pedal feel has been improved as well.
Silverado also features Auto Grade Braking, which uses the engine and transmission controls to slow the vehicle on a long downgrade, helping maintain vehicle speed and reducing the need for the driver to use the brakes.
Smarter pickup box
For 2014, Silverado even makes the pickup box smarter. A CornerStep bumper and built-in hand grip pockets in the new bed rail protectors make it easier to step up into the bed and access items.
The tailgate features an internal torsion bar that reduces the effort to raise and lower the tailgate, while a rotary damper allows for a controlled and more gradual lowering motion when opening the tailgate. A locking feature, two-tier loading and a box lamp are standard. Available features include upper tie-down hooks that make it easier to secure cargo, and LED lamps under the bed rails that make it easier to see items in the bed.
The pickup box is available in three lengths – 5’8”, 6’6”and 8’. Crew cab models add the 6’6” box as a new option in addition to the 5’8” box. Extended cab models come with 6’6” boxes and regular cab models are available with 6’6” or 8’ boxes. Customers who tow will appreciate the four- and seven-pin trailer connector located in the rear bumper.
Z71 for off-road capability
Z71 also includes unique 18-inch wheels (optional on LT, standard on LTZ) and unique interior trim, including brushed metal sill plates, a technical finish on interior trim pieces and Z71 graphics on the instrument cluster.
Standard on Z71, and available on other Silverados, is a GM-exclusive automatic locking rear differential, which reacts in milliseconds in low-traction situations to improve safety and confidence on wet, snowy or muddy surfaces.
Advanced safety features
As mentioned above, the 2014 Silverado 1500 has an all-new cab, with approximately two-thirds of the structure built from high strength steels. It helps protect occupants in the event of a crash and enhances performance on new, tougher government and industry crash tests.
Silverado continues to offer a comprehensive suite of standard safety technologies, including StabiliTrak electronic stability control with Trailer Sway Control and Hill Start Assist, head curtain side airbags with rollover protection and OnStar.
New for 2014, Silverado will offer several segment-leading features. Lane Departure Warning alerts the driver if the vehicle starts to drift into another lane, via an audible warning or the available Safety Alert Seat. Also available is Forward Collision Alert, which monitors the space in front of the vehicle via a camera, and warns the drive if he or she is getting too close to the vehicle ahead.
Other available safety features include front and rear park assist, a rear vision camera mounted in the tailgate and spotter mirrors that make it easier for drivers to see objects in the blinds spots.
Article and Images Courtesy of GM
Monday, December 17, 2012
Your Monday Maintenance Tip: One indicator or blinker is flashing faster than the other
When you indicate one way and the blinker flashes quicker than when you indicate the other way, it means one of the bulbs has blown. An auto parts store will be able to tell you what sort of bulb you need to replace it with and your manual should show you how to get at the indicator bulbs - they're different on every car.
Your Maintenance Tip Courtesy of Car Bibles
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Towing Tips
Learn how to properly park your Chevy Silverado while trailering with this video featuring Chevy Silverado Marketing Manager Tony Truelove.
Monday, December 10, 2012
Monday Maintenance: Warming Your Vehicle
It cannot be understated how important it is to warm your car before you drive it. Learn about the importance of warming your vehicle before you drive it with help from an expert in the automotive industry in this free video clip.
Thursday, December 6, 2012
Chevrolet and Disney Team Up
Chevrolet designers and Disney Imagineers came together to completely re-imagine the Test Track at Walt Disney World. They aimed to take it to another level, making the ride more engaging and interactive.
"If you are thinking of buying a vehicle, this would be the only place to consider."
- Mark
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
2014 Chevy Spark Details Unveiled
Chevrolet has released more details on its 2014 Spark EV, ahead of the Los Angeles Auto Show.
Along with official photos of the electric Spark, Chevy is hinting at a price "below $25,000 with incentives", meaning a pre-incentive price of under $32,500.That puts the pre-incentive price more or less where you'd expect--less than the $35,200 Nissan Leaf, but more than the 2012 Mitsubishi i ($29,125) and the smaller, two-seat 2013 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive ($25,750).
Chevrolet also appears to be holding true to its promise that the Spark EV isn't a compliance car, as it's set to go on sale not only in California, but Oregon, Canada, South Korea and other global markets.
High specification
The specification list reads more favorably than the typical compliance car, too.
Spark EVs are powered by a 110 kW (130 hp) electric motor, which puts out an impressive 400 lb-ft of torque. A 20 kWh lithium-ion battery pack is expected to give the Spark one of the best EV ranges on the market.
That battery is warranted for 8 years or 100,000 miles, and makes up 560-pounds of the car's total weight. Chevy is confident that the battery will prove durable, having undergone the same tolerance testing as the unit in the Volt. 2014 Chevrolet Spark EV Prototype first drive
Charging is handled by a common on-board charging receptacle, suitable not only for AC 240V and 120V outlets, but also optional SAE Combo DC Fast Charge capability.
This can charge the battery to 80 percent capacity in only 20 minutes. Normal recharging time on 240V is under seven hours, from empty.
Improved aerodynamics
Chevy has worked hard on the Spark's aero capabilities, and says that several tweaks made to the bodywork have harvested the equivalent of 2.5 miles of range, compared to a Spark EV using the standard gasoline car's bodywork.
Continuing the full production car attention to detail, the Spark EV's interior features two, seven-inch color LCD screens for displaying information. In car infotainmentt includes MyLink radio, with navigation, internet radio and Siri compatibility for iPhone users.
The 2014 Chevrolet Spark EV will be unveiled in full at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show. Head over toour dedicated show page for more coverage from L.A.
Thursday, November 29, 2012
Spark Art: Beppe Giacobbe | Chevy Spark | Chevrolet
Say ciao to Italian artist Beppe Giacobbe, one of the global artists chosen to create work inspired by the car that's built and loved around the world -- the 2013 Chevy Spark
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Our Customers Go Out Of Their Way To Tell Us We're Going Out Of Ours!
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Chevrolet to be first U.S. automaker to integrate Apple's Siri assistant into its Spark and Sonic cars
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Chevrolet will launch Siri, the virtual assistant technology featured in Apple's iPhone, in its cars with the 2013 Chevrolet Spark and Chevrolet Sonic models. The feature, dubbed Siri Eyes Free, will allow drivers to make hands-free calls, access their iTunes music library, listen to and compose messages, and check game scores or local weather.
Chevrolet will become the first US carmaker to integrate Apple's Siri virtual assistant technology into its cars with the launch of its 2013 Chevrolet Spark and Chevrolet Sonic models.
Siri is a voice-activated feature on Apple iPhones and iPads that can perform internet searches, answer questions and even receive email and text message dictation. The special in-car version, called Siri Eyes Free, that Chevrolet is to deploy, was unveiled in June at the World Wide Developers Conference and is designed to give drivers access to smartphone features, via a dedicated dashboard-mounted button, without having to take their eyes off the road.
Chevrolet made the announcement Tuesday at the Los Angles International Auto Show where its marketing director for small cars, Cristi Landy, explained the feature would be compatible with the iPhone 4S and iPhone 5 and would work via the cars' existing Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system. By pushing the steering-wheel-mounted voice activation button, users can make hands-free calls, access their iTunes music library, listen to and compose messages, and even keep up to date with big game scores or the local weather.
"It says a lot about our commitment to small-car customers that Chevrolet has announced that Siri Eyes Free capability will be available in the Spark and Sonic well before the luxury brands," said Cristi Landy, "Safe, easy, reliable and portable connectivity is a top priority for our customers, and Siri complements MyLink's existing capabilities to help deliver an incredible driving experience."
In bringing Siri to its small cars first, Chevrolet is taking the same path as Mercedes-Benz, which became the first car company to integrate the technology into its models when it launched its new A-Class in September.
Providing increasing levels of in-car entertainment and connectivity while reducing distractions is becoming a major challenge for carmakers around the world. As the use of smartphones continues to grow, so do the risks they pose to safe driving. New federal guidelines, published in February by US Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood, seek to limit in-car distractions caused by communications, entertainment, information gathering and navigation devices; and, in particular, any device that requires use of the hands and/or diversion of the eyes from the primary task of driving.
"Distracted driving is a dangerous and deadly habit on America's roadways - that's why I've made it a priority to encourage people to stay focused behind the wheel. These guidelines are a major step forward in identifying real solutions to tackle the issue of distracted driving for drivers of all ages," said LaHood.
Monday, November 26, 2012
Help Your Odometer Reach 300,000 Miles
Five Maintenance Tips For Getting To 300,000 Miles
1. Keep your battery charged. This is especially important if you don’t drive your car that often. If you plan to let a vehicle sit for more than a couple weeks, you should invest in a “trickle charger,” or battery tender, which plugs into a regular household outlet and keeps your battery fully charged, automatically. I have a battery tender for my lawn tractor battery for winter months, and it guarantees a strong start in the spring.
2. Keep at least half a tank of gas in the car. Plenty of reasons not to let your car run on fumes, but one I had never considered before reading this article is that an empty gas tank is more prone to rust. The rust can leach into your fuel and clog filters and fuel lines downstream. Rust could also eventually eat through your gas tank leaving a hole. At today’s gas prices, who can afford for that to happen!
3. Don’t forget the tires. When you fill up your gas tank, or every couple weeks, whichever happens more frequently, be sure to check your tire pressure. If you drive an older vehicle like me you’ll need to pick up a tire gauge. Look at the label inside the door, or in your owner’s manual, to find the correct tire pressure for your specific model. Low tire pressure causes things like uneven wear on your tires and decreased gas mileage.
4. Change the oil. There is some debate in the frugal car owner world on whether or not you should change your oil as often as prescribed by car manufacturers (and those express oil-changing facilities). I’m no expert, but I think you should stay pretty close to the suggested schedule, only deviating a month or two, or a couple hundred miles. Peters agrees with me. Besides, a $30 oil change is much cheaper than a new engine, and if you are ultra frugal, you can even change your own oil!
5. Be kind to your clutch, and your brakes. If you drive a car with a manual transmission you know at some point you will likely have to replace the clutch. But you can extend the life of your clutch, and your brakes, by not riding either one for long periods of time, and by using your accelerator (or not using your accelerator) to coast a bit as traffic ebbs and flows.
Automobiles are becoming more and more expensive these days. In fact, next to buying a home, it is probably the largest single purchase most people will make in a lifetime. Use the steps above to increase the chances your vehicle will last well beyond your car loan, guaranteeing you many years of debt-free driving.
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Monday, November 19, 2012
10 Commonly Forgotten Vehicle Maintenance Tips
Vehicle maintenance is something that is often overlooked on most cars and trucks; most people will avoid maintenance and just drive em till they drop or the engine blows. There are a few particulars of maintenance that should never be over looked. This article will outline the most common things as far as maintenance that are a must to keeping your vehicle on the road.
Oil changes
As far as maintenance is concerned oil changes are a must and should be done regularly to keep your engine free of friction causing deposits. Actually changing your oil and not just adding oil is a must. If you are simply adding oil to your engine and not changing it with the filter you are doing your engine a major disservice. When just adding oil when it gets low you are creating silt deposits in the bottom of the pan that over time can cause oiling issues when the pick up tube screen gets clogged; this can lead to low oil pressure and poor oiling to the top end of the motor, ultimately it will cause engine failure. Another oil changing maintenance tip is to never change the type of oil you use; if you use cheap oil than continue to do so. Switching from cheap oil to a full synthetic can lead to gasket and oil sealing problems whereas the cheap oil leaves deposits behind that seal up these tiny crevices; full synthetic has many detergents that will clean these deposits away and cause oil leaks.
Transmission service
The number one cause of automatic transmission failure is the lack of changing the transmission fluid and internal filter at the correct intervals; for automatic transmission maintenance one should always refer to the owner's manual for the correct intervals. If you are a do-it-yourself kind of person automatic transmission service is a breeze. Simply drop the pan, remove the old filter and gasket and replace the transmission fluid (with the vehicle specific fluid, failure to do so can lead to automatic transmission failure).
Manual transmissions and rear ends
These two parts of a vehicle are often overlooked, especially the rear end. You should change these fluids at the regular maintenance intervals to ensure that they last a really long time. Over time low fluid levels can cause a lot of heat and friction that can cause expansion and contraction of the transmission and rear end metal geometry which can cause leaks. So, keeping fresh fluid in there and keeping them full is a must have for manual transmission and rear end maintenance.
Fuel filter
A clogged fuel filter is a sure fire way to fry a fuel pump or starve and engine from fuel and make it run lean. Fuel filter maintenance is very often over looked, failure to change the fuel filter can be very costly if you don't do it at the correct service intervals.
Spark plugs
Spark plugs are a very important part of engine maintenance; if they are not replaced at the recommended times they can create havoc on your engines ignition system. Worn out spark plugs can cause coil pack failure as well as engine misfire problems. An added benefit of changing your spark plugs is that they will provide you with the best fuel economy, making a complete burn of the air fuel mixture. Always use vehicle recommended spark plugs for ignition system maintenance; some cheaper spark plugs will just not work worth a darn and you may end up having to change them frequently.
Timing belt
This may be the most costly part of maintenance, but it is key from preventing your engine from having catastrophic engine damage. You should always change your timing belt as the vehicle manufacturer has scheduled it. Failure to do this maintenance can result in bent valves and damaged piston; essentially complete engine damage.
Balancing and rotating tires
You paid a lot of money for your tires so this type of maintenance is just a cheap portion of service to ensure your investment. The driving wheels on a vehicle will always wear out tires from the ones that simply roll, so rotating your tires and getting them balanced every six months or so is a good way to keep your tires in tip top shape, this will also eliminated annoying shakes in your steering wheel. In addition to this maintenance an alignment is also key, without a proper vehicle alignment after hitting a curb or a big pothole you may very well have changed your vehicles suspension geometry, this will lead to uneven wear on the inside or outside of your tires; so be warned.
Coolant
Coolant is the heart and soul of your engine maintenance program; if you begin to get low on coolant it can cause serious engine damage such as blow head gaskets and leave you stranded, you should check your coolant levels every two to three weeks and have the system flushed once a year. Also adding too much water into the system is a bad idea especially if you live in a climate that has freezing winters. You don't want your engines coolant to freeze and expand which can possible crack the block or make water seals leak.
Battery
Your battery is very important to the maintenance of your vehicles electrical system. A bad or undercharged battery (or jumping off the car too often) can cause damage to the alternator from overworking it and to the starter. Both of which can be costly to repair.
Serpentine belt
This piece of maintenance is fairly inexpensive to replace and can generate quite an annoying sound. Other than that you can be really up the creak if it breaks, because it operates your water pump and sometimes your power steering, alternator, and air conditioning. If your belt breaks either your engine is going to overheat or you will drain your battery; failure to do this maintenance will always leave you stranded.
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Installation | OnStar RemoteLink | Chevrolet
The OnStar RemoteLink mobile app is the perfect way to communicate with your Chevy vehicle. You can use the app for Remote Start, Horn & Lights, and Lock & Unlock features. Learn how to install the app and get started.
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Chevrolet Equinox, GMC Terrain pass the 1 million sales mark
GM’s Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain SUV have both surpassed the 1 million sales mark. A quicksilver metallic 2013 GMC Terrain Denali drove off the assembly line at GM’s CAMI plant this week, marking 1 million vehicles produced on the architecture.
Both models were launched in 2009 as 2010 models and since then the two have grown in sales every year. Sales have more than doubled from 138,248 units in 2009 to 283,491 units in 2011. Through the first 9 months of 2012, GM leads the small SUV segment in sales, ahead of the Honda CR-V, the Kia Sportage/Hyundai Tucson and the Ford Escape.
“Small SUVs attract buyers with diverse personal preferences but a common need for space and versatility,” said Alan Batey, vice president of GM Sales, Service and Marketing. “With Equinox and Terrain, we can deliver on those core attributes while offering two very different design and packaging propositions. Chevrolet and GMC are both stronger brands with these vehicles in their showrooms.”
Monday, November 12, 2012
Your Monday Maintenance Tip: Keeping Up Appearances
What's the simplest thing people can do to help maintain their car's value over time? Richard Griot of car care and tool supplier Griot's Garage says, "Keep all of your vehicle's surfaces — the glass, trim, paint and wheels — clean." And we agree.
Your car has many enemies — some visible, some not. Emissions from industrial plants are released into the environment, where they are transformed into nitric or sulfuric acid. When deposited onto your car, in either a wet or a dry state, these contaminants can eat paint and, in extreme cases, metal. When ignored, acid from dead bugs, bird droppings, tree sap and even fallen leaves can do the same. Even something as benign as dust can cause tiny scratches in your car's finish, which can make the vehicle look dull and lifeless.
And the longer offensive contaminants are left on your vehicle, the greater the extent of the damage they can cause to both the car and its perceived value.
So what, you say? A few war wounds are endearing, right? Wrong!
Perception Versus Reality
The reality is that people often value material items based on the way they look. According to the folks at Kelley Blue Book, aesthetics is one of the top considerations when a person buys a car. And since more people are testing the used-car market these days, it is important to keep your car looking its best so it's worth more when you are ready to sell it. A vehicle that has a pitted or stained finish or splotches of rust is a turnoff, and thus is worth less than a car that looks pristine, regardless of how you maintained the vehicle mechanically — sad, but true.
If you currently don't clean your car regularly (at least twice a month), it's not too late to change your ways. Of course, the quickest and easiest way to a sparkling clean car inside and out is to take your four-wheeled friend to a detail shop for the royal treatment. At $75 to $300 or more per visit, using a professional detailer twice a month can get rather pricey. Luckily, there are plenty of do-it-yourself products on the market that you can use to clean your car at home, saving time and money.
To help, we've compiled some advice from car-care professionals on how to properly clean and care for your automobile. Follow these guidelines and your ride will look like you have a detailer on weekly retainer.
ON THE OUTSIDE
Before breaking out the sponges and getting down to business, you'll want to park the vehicle in a shaded spot, preferably in a gravel area where the water can seep, rather than on asphalt that can cause rapid runoff. Direct sunlight can cause some surfaces to dry faster than you may want them to, leaving residue and, thus, unwanted streaks on the finish.
The Basic Wash
Now you're ready to get busy. You'll need a steady supply of water (make sure your hose has a trigger-type nozzle, to conserve water), a soft and dirt-free cloth (or a wash mitt, terry cloth towel or soft-bristle brush) and — last but not least — a proper car-wash soap.
Don't make the mistake of using dishwashing soap or a household cleaner on your car; they contain harsh detergents that can strip wax and damage paint. As Craig Burnett, chemist for Mothers Polishes-Waxes-Cleaners, puts it: "Car-wash products are designed to remove automotive dirt from cars, not grime from clothes or grease from dishes. Don't confuse your kitchen with your garage."
Also, most car-care experts recommend starting at the top of the vehicle and working your way down, focusing on one section at a time. "The bottom of your car, particularly behind the wheel wells, traditionally has heavier accumulations of dirt particles," explains Mike Pennington, director of training for Meguiar's, a leading producer of car-care products. "Washing from the top down minimizes the risk of contaminants in the water or getting caught in the wash mitt or brush, thus minimizing the chances of creating scratches or swirls in the paint as you rub the car clean."
Here's the best game plan:
1. First rinse the entire car with water to remove loose dirt.
2. Wash and rinse the vehicle one section at a time, working from top to bottom, to prevent a section from drying too quickly and leaving deposits or residue.
3. Don't scrub aggressively. Instead, rub the car's surface gently to loosen dirt. Aggressive rubbing can grind dirt right into the finish, leaving scratches and swirls.
4. Rinse the wash mitt or sponge often to prevent accumulated dirt from scratching the paint.
5. After the final rinse, wipe the excess water from the vehicle's surface to prevent water spotting. A soft terry cloth towel or a high-quality chamois are recommended. Keep the towel or chamois clean to help prevent scratching, and wipe the vehicle lightly to soak up water without abrading the vehicle's finish.
Note: If you live in a climate where sand or salt is used on the road surface, be sure to rinse inside the wheel wells, paying special attention to the lower part of the fender, where salt and sand may have accumulated. We recommend using a high-pressure hose for this task.
Wheels and Tires
One of the most dramatic ways to improve the appearance of your vehicle is to keep its tires and wheels (or rims) clean. Address the wheels first.
Have you ever noticed that the front wheels of many cars appear dirtier than the back wheels? This is caused by the accumulation of brake dust shed by disc brakes, which are on the front wheels of virtually all cars these days. A number of car-care products on the market do a good job of removing it. You simply spray the cleaner on and rinse after 30 to 60 seconds.
Be careful, however, to use the right kind of cleaner for your type of wheels. If you don't, the results could be devastating. For instance, a spray-on product designed for premium alloys will begin to strip off a typical wheel's protective varnish if left on too long. It can also damage plastic wheel covers. So read the directions and warnings carefully before you apply any wheel cleaner.
After the rims are spick-and-span, focus your attention on the tires. Many tire dressings simply spray on and require no wiping. They are formulated to produce a clean, slightly glossy look.
Wax On, Wax Off
At least 97 percent of today's vehicles come from the factory with some type of clear-coat finish that contains stabilizers, ultraviolet light blockers and UV light absorbers that help keep a vehicle's paint looking new longer. While they do provide great protection, clear-coats are not a panacea.
"Clear-coats can give drivers a false sense of security by appearing to protect the underlying base coat," says Matthew Broderick, group vice president of marketing at Turtle Wax Inc. "They are fragile and susceptible to scratches, abrasions and swirls that make the paint look dull."
Waxing your vehicle will help remove paint oxidation and surface dirt, while adding another layer of protection against grease and grime. Wax will also improve or remove minor damage such as surface scratches or light contaminants and will provide a high-luster finish.
Most automakers recommend that you wax your vehicle twice a year to protect its clear-coat from damage and maintain the car's color and shine. However, some auto-care suppliers recommend monthly waxing. "Ideally, a vehicle should be waxed three to four times per year," Pennington says, to maximize the protection provided by the wax. "A good strategy is to start right before the winter and get into a three-month cycle."
When waxing your ride:
1. Wash and dry the vehicle before applying any product.
2. The paint surface should be cool and not in direct sunlight. The outside temperature should be above 50 degrees Fahrenheit, and humidity should be low.
3. Apply the wax in small sections with either a foam pad or small terry cloth towel using overlapping strokes or circular motions.
4. Wait for a section to dry to a haze before wiping the wax off with a terry cloth towel or cloth diaper. Wipe in both directions, turning the towels often. And remember to shake them out often to remove accumulated wax that might scratch the finish.
5. When completely finished, wipe the entire vehicle again, paying particular attention to the edges of trim pieces, doorjambs and moldings where excess wax may have accumulated.
For additional shine between wax jobs, several manufacturers offer spray-and-wipe products to quickly enhance a vehicle's shine.
ON THE INSIDE
Now that you have finished the exterior, it's time to tackle your car's interior.
First, thoroughly vacuum all carpets and upholstery to remove loose, dry dirt. Don't forget to vacuum under the seats.
Specialists recommend using lint-free towels and clean water to clean the dash area and seats. Cotton swabs are helpful for getting dust out of tight spots, and a clean, stiff-bristled brush is indispensable for removing caked-on dirt and grime in carpets and floor mats.
As far as solvents are concerned, Pennington suggests you always use a product that is designed for the surface you want to clean, whether it is leather, vinyl, plastic, wood, simulated wood or upholstery. Each product is specifically formulated for a particular surface and will not work effectively on other surfaces. In fact, the wrong cleaner may even do damage.
Even with right cleaner, don't use too much of it. "The biggest problem with interior cleaning is that many people overuse the cleaning products or saturate the carpet when they shampoo," Pennington says. Also never use a product that leaves a shiny, slick finish on the dashboard or steering wheel. A shiny dash reflects light, which can be a major safety hazard while driving. Same goes for a slippery steering wheel.
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
What-Were-They-Thinking Wednesday
Monday, November 5, 2012
Some Tips on Minimizing the Risk of Your Vehicle Being Broken Into or Stolen
Keep it inside a locked garage with an armed guard and Doberman on duty! Or, drive a car that nobody would want to steal.
Seriously, there are some common sense precautions you can use to minimize the risk of your vehicle being stolen or broken into:
Courtesy of Yahoo! Autos
Friday, November 2, 2012
Hit the Open Road
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Hot Wheels Camaro First Look
Chevrolet Designer Dave Ross and Hot Wheels Designer Felix Holst get a first look at the production Hot Wheels Camaro which was revealed at SEMA and available to order beginning November 1, 2012, arriving at dealerships in early 2013.
"I Will Go Back" Says The Author of This Glowing Review
- Linda B
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
We Really Know What We Are Doing!
- Brian
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Chevy Camaro Hot Wheels Edition is the real deal, for SEMA debut
Do you remember your favorite Hot Wheels diecast of your youth? Can you imagine how cool it would be if that scale model were a full-size car? Well, apparently the folks at Chevrolet have teamed up with Hot Wheels to create a new Camaro Hot Wheels Edition for 2013, and it's the stuff of childhood dreams. This scale-inspired Camaro is set about to head into production after its debut at the SEMA show in Las Vegas later this week. As Chevrolet's Vice President of Marketing, Chris Perry, notes: "Millions of us grew up playing with Hot Wheels. Offering a special production model of the Camaro Hot Wheels is an opportunity to bring those memories to life, for kids of all ages." The special edition package will be available limited numbers in both coupe and convertible bodystyles. Available trims include 2LT (V6), and 2SS (V8), and the Hot Wheels Edition combines elements of ZL1 styling with an eye-catching Kinetic Blue paint job. Visual updates include ground effects, front splitter, ZL1 front upper grille and ZL1 rear spoiler (for coupe models only). Upgrades also include black 21-inch wheels with redline accents like Hot Wheels of yore. The hood features a matte hood stripe and the obligatory Hot Wheels logos throughout. One of the first 16 Hot Wheels issued was a 1:64-scale Custom Camaro toy from 1968. It is unsurprisingly now one of the most valuable diecast cars among collectors.
Monday, October 29, 2012
Your Monday Maintenance Tip: Great Car Battery Maintenance Tips
Owning jumper cables is like owning a truck. When you own a truck, people seem to cozy up to you when they are moving. When you own jumper cables, you're suddenly like Batman but for dead batteries. You might as well give your friends a Jumper Cables Signal that they can point at the cloudy sky in times of crisis. With great power comes great responsibility, I guess. (And now I am mixing metaphors.)
Car batteries are full of toxic chemicals and have to be dealt with specially when they die. The green thing to do is to squeeze as much life out of them as possible and decrease the overall amount of batteries that you are going to need in your lifetime. Here are some tips for that.
1. Park in a Garage
A thoroughly insulated garage will keep your battery warm in the winter. Skip heated garages. They will rust your car.
2. Keep Your Battery Clean
Remove the clamps and clean away grease, dirt and oxidation. A filthy battery connection will weaken the charge.
3.Insulate Your Car Battery
If you don't have an insulated garage, you can always insulate the battery. It's a cheap way to protect the battery.
4. Recharge it with Solar
You can purchase an inexpensive solar charger for your car battery. The charger refills your battery's charge with solar energy. Combo this device with a monitor so you don't overcharge the battery.
5. Add Distilled Water
If you're stretching the life of a conventional battery, you may have to add some water to it. Here is how this is done.
6. Secure the Battery
If your battery is jiggling around, it could tip over. A loose battery bashing against other parts of your engine is bad. Battery acid spilling all over your motor is also bad. Keep the battery tray clean. Make sure the battery sits correctly.
"No Grief Whatsoever" Says the Author of This 5-Star Review
Friday, October 26, 2012
It's a very Festive Friday! And it's about time!
Thursday, October 25, 2012
2012 SEMA Show - Chevrolet Small Cars Package
Auto manufacturers come to SEMA not only to see the latest and greatest, but also to gauge interest in concepts for their own car lines. Last year, Chevrolet tested the Sonic Dusk, and this year, it's back at SEMA as a production execution.
More Satisfaction From Our CuStomer Service
- Glenn
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Be Sure To Take Advantage Of Our Savings!
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Monday, October 22, 2012
Your Monday Maintenance Tip: 9 Ways to Increase Gas Mileage
Improving fuel economy not only saves drivers money, it also benefits the environment by releasing fewer emissions into the air and reduces a nation's dependence on oil and oil imports. Reducing the amount of driving we do - by carpooling, using public transportation and combining trips - has the greatest effect on how much gas each person uses. That said, there are many ways to improve fuel economy when we do drive. These primarily involve driving more efficiently and making sure our cars are properly maintained.
Drive More Efficiently
Our driving habits have a significant impact on fuel efficiency:
1. Go Easy on the Pedals
Speeding, braking and rapid acceleration waste gas. Depending on the type of vehicle, poor driving habits can negatively affect fuel economy between 5% and 33%. Based on the current national average of $3.12 per gallon (for regular gasoline), driving sensibly, and not like a race car driver, can lead to an equivalent gas savings of between 16 cents and $1.03 per gallon.
2. Slow Down
Gas mileage decreases above 60 miles per hour. According to fueleconomy.gov, for every five miles per hour that exceeds 60 mph, drivers pay an equivalent of about 24 cents more for each gallon of gas. While each vehicle has its own optimal speed for fuel efficiency, speeding can result in 7% to 23% reduced fuel economy. Driving at slower speeds can save 21 to 71 cents per gallon.
Gas mileage decreases above 60 miles per hour. According to fueleconomy.gov, for every five miles per hour that exceeds 60 mph, drivers pay an equivalent of about 24 cents more for each gallon of gas. While each vehicle has its own optimal speed for fuel efficiency, speeding can result in 7% to 23% reduced fuel economy. Driving at slower speeds can save 21 to 71 cents per gallon.
3. Leave Extras at Home
An additional 100 pounds in your car can reduce gas mileage by up to 2%. The reduction is relative to the vehicle's weight: Smaller vehicles are more affected by increased weight than larger ones. For every 100 pounds in extra weight, plan on spending up to 6 cents more per gallon.
4. Use Cruise Control (When Appropriate)
According to Edmunds.com, using cruise control under appropriate conditions (avoiding use during especially hilly terrain) can improve fuel economy by up to 14%. That's a savings of about 43 cents per gallon.
5. Turn off the Car
Idling gets zero miles per gallon and collectively consumes several billion gallons of fuel per year, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. The California Energy Commission (CEC) advises that vehicles should be turned off if the expected wait will be longer than 10 seconds, since an idling vehicle can burn as much as one gallon of gas each hour. Turning the car off can save about 5 cents per minute.
6. Check Tire Pressure
A little bit of vehicle maintenance can go a long way in improving gas mileage. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 1.25 billion gallons of gasoline - approximately 1% of total consumption - are wasted each year on underinflated tires. Tires can lose about 2 pounds per square inch (psi) per month. Each tire that is underinflated by 10 psi reduces fuel economy by about 3.3%. Four tires that are underinflated by 10 psi, then, would reduce a vehicle's fuel economy by a substantial 10% at an added cost of 31 cents per gallon.
Follow the guidelines in your vehicle's owner's manual (these recommendations also appear on a sticker inside the driver's side door jamb) - and not what is stamped onto the tire itself.
7. Replace Spark Plugs
The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence indicates that bad spark plugs can decrease fuel economy by up to 30%, and can cost drivers up to about 94 cents per gallon at today's prices. If a car's gas mileage suddenly drops, there's a good chance it's because of misfiring spark plugs.
The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence indicates that bad spark plugs can decrease fuel economy by up to 30%, and can cost drivers up to about 94 cents per gallon at today's prices. If a car's gas mileage suddenly drops, there's a good chance it's because of misfiring spark plugs.
8. Check Alignment
Misaligned tires drag instead of roll freely. Improper alignment can reduce fuel efficiency by as much as 10% - about 31 cents per gallon. In addition, the tires can wear out more quickly. Tires that are out of balance (symptom: vibration in the steering wheel) can cause uneven tire wear, which can result in lower gas mileage. Tires should be balanced and rotated according to the vehicle's owner's manual to improve tire performance and fuel economy.
9. Fill Your Tank Early in the Morning - or Late at Night
Fuel is dispensed by volume. If you fill your tank when it is coolest outside - early in the morning or late at night, and avoid the heat of the day - the fuel will be more dense. As a result, you will get more gas for the same amount of money.
Good for You, Good for the Environment
Reducing the amount of driving we do, whether it's by carpooling or foregoing an unnecessary trip, is perhaps the most effective way to decrease the amount of gas that each person uses and make fill-ups at the gas station last longer. Proactive steps can be taken to improve fuel efficiency by paying attention to and changing gas-guzzling driving habits, and following a vehicle's maintenance schedule. Improved gas mileage is good for you, good for your car and good for the environment.
Thursday, October 18, 2012
Chevrolet Driving Dynamics | Technology & Innovation
Watch ZL1 engineer Tony Roma and Formula Drift racer Conrad Grunewald demonstrate the latest Chevrolet Driving Dynamics technologies as they hit Willow Springs International Race Track with Corvette and Camaro.
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
The 2012 Camaro Coupe Becomes the First Vehicle of Any Class to Earn a Perfect NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
So when the Camaro Coupe became not only the first sports car, but the first overall vehicle of any class to nab a perfect five-star score in every safety rating segment of the National Highway Traffic Administration’s all-new car assessment, Chevy was more than thrilled to add top-notch safety to the sports car’s inimitable reputation.
“Camaro has always been about performance and that includes safety performance,” said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro chief engineer. “We always strive for five-star ratings and the fact that we achieved them under more rigorous requirements is a great accomplishment.”
The NHTSA recently raised the bar by revising their testing procedures for 2011. The six categories that Camaro performed exceptionally in include frontal barrier crash testing for the driver and passenger, side crash ratings for the driver and passenger, a rollover rating, and the vehicle’s overall rating. The stricter NHTSA testing regulations have been revamped to focus on crash avoidance technologies and safety feature performance.
Monday, October 15, 2012
Your Monday Maintenance Tip: Common Maintenance Mistakes
Curiously, many people haven't adjusted their thinking to keep pace with new car maintenance schedules. The preoccupied still run their daily drivers without service until the dash warning lights burn out, while over-achievers fret about running synthetic oil more than 2,500 miles without a change.
Although maintenance intervals are now more widely spaced, even the newest cars require scheduled service to live long, productive lives. Whether yours is the latest model or you paid it off years ago, the trick is giving your car the maintenance it was designed to receive.
Surprisingly, the answer to what maintenance is required is hiding no farther away than the glove box. Every car is supplied with a maintenance schedule — in the owner's manual or in a separate maintenance log book — that details that vehicle's needs. A few minutes assimilating these requirements will help you avoid the following common car-maintenance pitfalls.
Proper Tire Inflation and Rotation
Tires leak naturally and need the occasional check. Figuratively speaking, underinflated tires suck up gasoline. Under- or overinflated tires wear out sooner, and deliver the same emergency maneuver handling as marshmallows. You probably aren't going to check tire pressures monthly, but how about twice a year?
Furthermore, front and rear tires wear differently and should be rotated to even that wear. Your owner's manual will have a recommendation on both pressure and rotation periods.
Wiper Tales
Here's a news flash: It's much easier to avoid hitting things you can see. Simple as it is, that's the concept behind replacing your windshield wipers before they fossilize into noisy uselessness.
Fall is the ideal wiper replacement time: after the blade-baking summer and before the fall and winter nastiness. Depending on location, wiper replacement may be an annual affair in the Southwest to a biannual chore in northern climes.
Tune-Up Anachronism
There are no more "tune-ups." Valves no longer need adjusting, ignition timing is computer controlled and there are no carburetors to fiddle with. About all that's left of the old tune-up drill are the spark plugs. These are often good for 100,000 miles, so don't change parts just to change parts. Instead, save up for those big 60,000- and 120,000-mile services when the timing belt, spark plug wires and coolant are due for replacement.
Octane Overdose
"If some is good, more is better" thinking does not apply to octane. Here the rule is to supply whatever octane the engine is rated for and call it done. Higher-than-required octane does not yield more power or mileage, only oil company profits.
Some engines are rated for premium 91 octane fuel but can burn 87 octane regular, thanks to the magic of knock sensors. In that case, run regular gas if puttering around surface streets, and premium fuel if full-throttle driving is part of your daily repertoire.
Oil Change Timing
Oil changes every 3,000 miles used to be required jobs, just like cleaning the accumulated fuzz from record player needles or defrosting freezers. Today, advances in engine design and lubricants make oil changes something to be done when the schedule calls for it, not when granddad says it's time. Some cars call for 5,000-mile change intervals, some up to 15,000-mile stints. Others have a variable timer. Follow the schedule and use the oil called for by the manufacturer.
Tired Tires
Tires wear out, but they also time out. The tire industry says tires are toast after five years, but they're selling tires. It all depends on heat, sunlight and ozone conditions. There's little argument from any pundits that after seven years those black donuts are dried and better off holding down a farmer's tarp than carrying your family around. If you're not sure how old your tires are, a tire shop can read the date code stamped into the sidewall.
Dirty Air Filter
Semi-clogged air filters hurt fuel economy for the same reason you don't like to run with a potato in your mouth. The question is, when is your filter dirty? Under a Norman Rockwell schedule of small-town errand running and church duty, an air filter might not see much grit. But grimy city surface streets or just looking at a dirt road on a map are often enough to overwhelm air filters. This one is about conditions. If you go near dirt, the air filter may need changing twice as often as the schedule calls for.
Ignoring Your Brakes
Note to the Wandering Unconscious: If you notice anything different about your brakes — sound, feel or response — they are telling you to visit a mechanic. Now.
Tighten Your Gas Cap
Is the Check Engine light on? Then make sure the gas cap is on tightly before calling the dealer. No joke, this is one of the most common ways of setting off your car's diagnostic system, since a loose gas cap defeats the fuel system's venting arrangement.
The Garage Is for Parking
Let's review. Your house is your most valuable investment. Your car is likely your second most valuable investment. If you're paying all that money, then why are you storing empty cardboard boxes, broken skateboards and plastic holiday wreaths in the garage? Pitch that junk and get the car in the garage!
Courtesy of MSN
Thursday, October 11, 2012
Driving Efficiency: Find Out How To Get The Most From Your Volt
With the extended range Volt, you don’t have to choose between electric or gas. You have the option of both. First is the advanced lithium–ion battery that allows you to drive gas-free for an EPA-estimated 38 miles. But Volt doesn’t stop there.
There’s also an onboard gas generator that produces electricity so you can travel a total of 380 miles on a full charge and full tank of gas. Now that’s long-range savings.
Rolling hills and changing temperatures can affect the MPG in your Volt. Watch this video to see how you can achieve the most MPG by using electricity more efficiently.
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
The Newly Designed Chevy Treverse
The Chevrolet Traverse unveils with a new look and feel, inside and out
An aggressive and dramatic exterior appearance isn’t reserved for sports cars alone. Whether it’s hot laps or afterschool pickups, it’s all still driving and it all deserves a refined presence and feel. The Chevrolet Traverse has been the crossover utility vehicle for any lifestyle, a benchmark in cargo space and passenger comfort, and a leader in safety standards within its class. But there’s no rest for the iconic.
Rethought, reshaped and redesigned, the 2013 Traverse reveals with a new exterior design. Its lean, sculpted lines and dramatic accents include a front dual grille, reshaped headlamps and taillights along with chrome accents and fog lamps on LT and LTZ.
A rethought interior
Beautifully tailored appointments redefine the 2013 Traverse interior. Upscale materials create soft-touch surfaces on the dash and doorpanels. Ambient lighting subtly illuminates the interior. Adjustable headrests allow for personalized comfort while driving. Stunning details serve as accents throughout the interior such as contrasting stitching and interior wood trim on LT and LTZ. The 2013 Traverse elevates interior appearance and comfort without compromising the spaciousness it is known for.
Drivers will still enjoy best-in-class maximum cargo space, 116.3 cubic feet †, or seating for up to eight adult passengers on LS and LT models. There’s even more space behind the third row than any competitor in its class. And just as Traverse has always been engineered with the safety of drivers and their loved ones in mind, the 2013 Traverse continues to build on its award-winning predecessor with innovative safety technology and features.
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