Blog

If you are looking for a new car, look no further than the 2023 Buick Encore GX, the newest addition to Buick's lineup of vehicles. With the latest technology and an impressive list of features, the Encore GX is sure to meet the needs of drivers looking for a reliable and comfortable ride. We will explore what the Encore offers, from its advanced safety features to its cutting-edge infotainment system. more Basics About the 2023 Buick Encore GX Design The 2023 Encore GX is an elegant and sporty-looking vehicle. It features a grille that has a body-color surround, LED headlights, and an athletic profile, giving it an overall modern look. The vehicle's exterior is designed to be aerodynamic, helping reduce drag and improve handling. Its interior is both stylish and comfortable, with heated seats, ambient lighting, and plenty of tech features. It also comes with an available panoramic power moonroof, making it perfect for sunbathing on a long drive. Safety The 2023 Buick Encore takes safety very seriously. It comes with standard automated emergency braking, forward collision alert, and available lane-keep assist and rear cross-traffic alert. The vehicle also has a standard rear vision camera to help you keep an eye on your surroundings. The interior is equipped with advanced airbags for protection in case of a collision. Engine The 2023 Encore GX comes with two powertrain options. The first is a 1.2L engine that delivers 137 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque. The fuel efficiency of this engine is estimated by the EPA to be 28 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway. The second option is a 1.3L engine that delivers 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. Technology The new Encore GX offers a range of technological features designed to keep you connected and entertained on the road. You'll find the latest infotainment system, which includes wireless Apple CarPlay, an 8-inch touchscreen, and Bluetooth connectivity. The vehicle also has a 6-speaker audio system, Android Auto compatibility, and 4G LTE Wi-Fi capability. What's New for the 2023 Model? The 2023 Encore GX has one new feature that sets it apart from its predecessors. The vehicle's exterior has been refreshed with a new color, which is moonstone gray metallic. Other than that, there are no significant changes to the Encore. The 2023 Buick Encore is a great vehicle for anyone looking for a practical, reliable, and comfortable car. It has a sleek exterior design and plenty of interior space, making it perfect for family trips or a weekend away. If you're in the market for a quality vehicle that will last you years without breaking the bank, look no further than the 2023 Buick Encore. Visit Stone Chevrolet Buick GMC today for all your Buick needs.

The Chevrolet Trax has been a driver-favorite crossover ever since its debut in 2015. This compact SUV offers impressive capabilities as well as a decent amount of cabin space for a vehicle in such a small package. Thanks to this SUV's sporty maneuverability, it can turn quickly with little effort, allowing it to squeeze into tight parking spaces without a problem. The 2021 Chevrolet Trax is affordable, practical, and simple, with just two trim levels to choose from. Versatile Cargo Space Chevy's ingenuity is showcased throughout the many practical features of the 2021 Trax. One place this compact SUV really shines is in the incredible engineering of its interior space. Not only does this crossover offer ample trunk space, but it features a fold-flat backseat and an innovative fold-flat front seat, as well. Many vehicles, including the Trax, split the back seats in a 60/40-fold-down option that creates adaptable cargo space, but this vehicle's flat-folding front passenger seat allows you to haul cargo that is up to eight feet in length. Load up that surfboard for an early morning beach run or plan that home improvement project that requires large building materials. You won't be hindered by a lack of cargo space. more Comfortable Cabin Seating When the backseats and front passenger seat are not folded down to make room for cargo, both rows deliver plenty of seating space. Each row is quite comfortable for adults, offering ample legroom and headroom throughout the cabin. Available seating upgrades can further enhance your riding experience, such as leather upholstery throughout, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and heated front seats. The height of the driver's seat is worth noting, as it sits the driver a bit higher than other vehicles in this class, improving outward visibility. Excellent Fuel Ratings One of the greatest benefits of driving a vehicle of this size is the exceptional fuel economy it offers. Since saving time and money at the gas station is becoming more important to consumers every year, the 2021 Trax is keeping itself competitive with its fuel ratings. Models equipped with front-wheel drive can expect to achieve an EPA estimated 26 miles per gallon in the city and 31 miles per gallon on the highway. Drivers who upgrade to all-wheel drive can expect to achieve an EPA estimated 24 miles per gallon in the city and 29 miles per gallon on the highway. These ratings certainly showcase the 2021 Trax as an excellent choice for daily commutes. Turbo-Powered Both trim levels of the 2021 Trax come standard with a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that generates 138 horsepower and 149 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain is complemented by a front-wheel drive and a 6-speed automatic transmission that moves the Trax along quite smoothly on city streets. This compact SUV has been designed for daily use, making it ideal for commuters. Its straightforward and no-nonsense attitude ensures you travel from point A to point B without any hiccups. Book a test drive today at Stone Chevrolet Buick GMC and see the 2021 Trax in action.

Go biking in Tulare, CA, and you'll find some fantastic bike paths to explore. The mountains to the west of the city are full of some of the best mountain biking trails in the state, perfect to get the adrenaline pumping and to stay fit too. We've collected our favorite trails in the area to get you started, so hop on your bike and get started today. 1. Cannell Trail This long trek through the southern California mountains provides challenging climbs and an infamous downhill finish known as “The Plunge”, an eight-mile stretch at the end of the trail that offers some fantastic views. One of the factors that set this trail apart is its altitude – the first 17 miles of this 25-mile ride are all above 7,000 feet – the trail starts at 9,200 feet, and there's plenty of climbing to do. Some of the most technical sections are right at the beginning, where you'll be faced with loose dirt and tough climbs through alpine meadows. The trail starts at Sherman Pass, above the town of Kernville, CA, dropping immediately down to a meadow, before a very steep climb up to a saddle at 9,400 feet, the highest point on the trail. It's worth bringing a map, as the trail is far from obvious and often crosses fire roads. Motorcycles are allowed on some sections, so keep an ear out. more 2. Slate Mountain Loop This physically demanding loop through the heart of the Great Sequoia National Monument will take you through more demanding high-altitude country. However, there are some excellent views, and the singletrack through the groves of giant sequoia trees will more than make up for the lack of phone signal. In total, the trail is about 23 miles long, with an elevation gain of over 4,700 feet. The trail starts from Camp Nelson, near the general store, but it is possible to skip part of the climb by taking a shuttle bus to Quaking Aspen Campground and picking up the trail there. There's a couple of creeks to ford and a small section of highway connecting the two arms of the loop. 3. Case Mountain Road and Skyline in Three Rivers If these tough, high-altitude treks seem a bit much, then Case Mountain Fire Road is a great option for a smooth climb, that's not too strenuous or challenging. It also provides a vital link to other singletrack trails further up, as well as making a good out-and-back climb. It's a steady climb for most of the ride, with many branches that lead to side-trails. A great way to get back down is to take the singletrack connector trail at around the 4.5-mile mark, and then follow the Skyline in Three Rivers trail back to the parking lot. These are our favorite mountain bike trails for a day in the hills, but maybe there's some we've missed? Then visit us at Stone Chevrolet Buick GMC today and tell us. And, if you need a new vehicle to get you and your bike up the mountain, we've got you covered. Image by renategranade0 from Pixabay

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe is a stylish SUV with a state-of-the-art suspension system and customizable powertrain. Here are five of the most impressive features of this large SUV. 1. Personal Space People rarely believe a three-row SUV is suitable for seven or eight adults. Most three-row SUVs are cramped in the back row, lacking the shoulder room, hip room, and headroom for adults. On the other hand, the 2021 Tahoe is a true three-row SUV. Even tall adults can fit comfortably into the back row of the vehicle. The amount of headroom in the third row is surprising, and there is almost 35” of legroom. more 2. Cutting-Edge Suspension System The suspension system in this large SUV is soft enough to absorb the potholes and divots in the road. With AWD, you can even take this SUV off-road. However, without the Z71 package, you won't be tackling the toughest trails. Even if you're not interested in off-roading, you and your passengers will love the 2021 Tahoe's independent suspension system. All three rows of passengers will ride in smooth comfort. 3. Customizable Powertrain If you're concerned about fuel economy, you will love the powerful 5.3L motor that produces up to 383 pound-feet of torque and 355 horsepower. On the other hand, if you're only interested in raw power for a fun drive, you'll love the 6.2L V8. This energetic motor can fire off with 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. Both of these motors can be paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. 4. Lots of Cargo Space If you love going on frequent road trips, you will love the ample storage space in the 2021 Tahoe. You can get over 25 cubic feet of storage space if you leave all three rows of seats up. If you're moving across town or buying your husband a larger entertainment center, you'll love the nearly 123 cubic feet of storage space with the two rear rows of seats folded down. 5. Infotainment System The 2021 Tahoe's infotainment system is also impressive. The large, attractive 10.2” touchscreen is very easy to use. This excellent infotainment system is standard regardless of trim level, and it is both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible. Your passengers can also stay connected on the go using the built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. If audio quality is extremely important to you, you'll love the Bose audio upgrade. The speakers that come standard with the 2021 Tahoe produce good sound quality. However, you will be amazed by the quality of sound that comes out of the Bose speakers. Additionally, you will be able to enjoy the high-definition sound thoroughly thanks to the naturally quiet cabin. The cabin was designed to cancel out exterior noise. The 2021 Tahoe comes with plenty of personal space for passengers, a cutting-edge suspension system, lots of cargo space, and more. To see for yourself how great this vehicle is, stop by Stone Chevrolet Buick GMC today and take one for a test drive. Image from: Chevrolet.com

Coffee makes people more energetic and happier. So why don't you invite your friends to grab a cup (or two) of coffee? In and around Tulare, CA, excellent coffee shops are yours to visit. 1. Top O'The Morns-Drive On Prosperity Avenue is this small coffee house. It serves popular caffeinated favorites including latte macchiato and caramel frappe. You can order milkshakes and cookies here, too. more 2. Component Coffee Lab This 2017-established shop in Visalia's Main Street began its operations as a coffee roaster called Slow Train. Since 2012, it's been serving roasted coffee in small batches and single origin. It also offers breakfast items. 3. The Human Bean Head to Mooney Boulevard to get to this coffee shop in Tulare. In addition to coffee, this place also serves hot chocolate, smoothies, and pastries. If you want to order coffee and enjoy it outside, you can. This place features a covered outdoor seating venue. 4. El Charro Cafe This small place on Bardsley Avenue is where people go for a satisfying cup of coffee and Mexican food. Because it's open from 8:00 in the morning until 8:00 in the evening, you can have breakfast, lunch, or dinner here. Its friendly staff offers excellent service, too! 5. Mikey V's Want to have coffee in a small place with a mom-and-pop vibe? Then check out this shop on Tulare Avenue. The coffee here may not have as much flavor compared to the coffee in other places, but it's good and strong! 6. Salles Cafe This cute shop on N J Street is open from 5:00 in the morning until 6:00 in the evening. It offers a nice, quiet environment with a hometown feel. Other than coffee, this place also serves fluffy biscuits, sausages, pork chops, and more. 7. Bravo Farms On Retherford Street is where you can find one of the Bravo Farms outlets. It serves great-tasting coffee. Apart from that, it delights customers with sandwiches, pizza, beer, and more. If you plan on drinking beer, kindly do so responsibly. 8. Vejar's This place on S K Street is many tourists' go-to stop for extraordinary coffee. To know what the hype is all about, see for yourself and try its delicious coffee. Want more than just coffee? You can also order your favorite American and Mexican dishes here. 9. Cafe and Bakery - Tulare A serving of perpetually hot and fresh coffee is what you can get at this small cafe and bakery on Laspina Street. Craving bread and cheese as you sit back with your coffee? If so, you can order them here, too. These nine shops in and around Tulare serve coffee unlike any other. They also feature a drive-thru section! And speaking of drive-thrus, talk to us if you need help in this department. Call us to check out our available vehicles at Stone Chevy Buick GMC. We have a lineup of certified and pre-owned Chevrolet, Buick, and GMC available.

Right in the heart of the Golden State is Tulare, CA, a city that sits between San Francisco and Los Angeles at 200 miles in either direction. But Tulare doesn't sit in the shadow of its more populated sister cities. It boasts some of the most pristine landscapes in all of the country and has plenty of activities in its downtown area to enjoy while maintaining a warm community atmosphere. Keep reading to learn more about why it's such a great place to call home! It's a Business-Friendly City Tulare County has seen incredible growth over the last several years in both population and investments from entrepreneurs and big businesses. With this kind of economic growth, residents can enjoy a higher quality of life as they reap the benefits of their aspirations and hard work. Tulare's overall employment rate and median household income are also steadily rising, giving newcomers to the workforce a chance to plant their feet and earn a good living. more Plenty of Outdoor Recreation Tulare residents are a short drive away from breathtaking landscapes that can be admired at Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks. Both of these parks feature an array of hiking trails that are suitable for different skill levels, but all of which allow you to take in the immense beauty of California's mountainside. Sequoia forest also features stunning lakes and campsites, so you can spend a night (or two) immersed in nature and enjoy breathing the fresh mountain air. Plenty of Downtown Action For residents who love a buzzing city-vibe, downtown Tulare has exactly what they need. The main square is lined with cafes and boutiques where residents often flock on weekends to do some people-watching and shopping. Municipal events in the city include weekend concerts that are free to the public and a farmer's market with fresh produce and meats straight from the farm. Recreational activities in the city are plentiful and include bowling, billiards, and a variety of sports fields. Spacious and Affordable Housing While housing prices in many parts of the U.S. continue to skyrocket while offering less living space, homes in Tulare provide excellent value per square footage, with prices well below the national average. It's the perfect place for first-time homebuyers looking to find their family home at a great price, without having to sacrifice the amenities. Families in Tulare County can also count on safe neighborhoods and tight-knit communities to raise their children in. Education is Key Tulare County is home to two community colleges and is a short distance away from three major universities. The public school system is one of the best in all of California, with a wealth of resources that allow students to explore and learn about the world around them. These schools also  employ some of the finest and most dedicated teachers in the state of California Are you a Tulare resident or visiting from nearby? If so, stop by Stone Chevy Buick GMC today for the best deals on new and pre-owned cars and SUVs!

Tulare, CA is a beautiful and scenic area with access to great fishing spots nearby. Taking a drive in and around the region offers great views and activities for the whole family to enjoy. 1. Jose's Fishing Spot Located just out of town in Corcoran, CA, this spot offers some great opportunities to catch bass and catfish. It's quiet and convenient to find at the corner of 4th and Racine Avenue. It's the ideal place to catch a few fish on the way home or to a camping site. You'll find Tulare Lake close by, which offers great views to enjoy for a day's visit. more 2. Mooney Grove Park Mooney Grove Park is terrific for families, offering a playground, a bridge, trails for walking, and places to barbeque. You'll find some good fishing from the pond, which is ideal for teaching kids and beginners. The park offers a relaxing atmosphere to enjoy throughout the year with a scenic lagoon, large trees, and historic buildings. 3. Lake Kaweah This lake is located near Lemon Cove. It's a reservoir offering spectacular views near the Sierra Nevada mountains. Fishing, boating, and wildlife are features at this spot in Tulare County. The lake is formed by the Terminus Dam on the Kaweah River, a great location for your next catch. 4. Arbor #5 Del Lago Park Arbor #5 Del Lago Park offers the perfect place to go fishing with your family. The pond offers catch and release, and there are amenities close by, including a playground, picnic area, and plenty of geese and ducks to feed. There's lots of space for sports and activities. 5. Bravo Lake Bravo Lake is close to a botanical garden and offers great sunset views. You'll find great fishing at this quiet lake, which provides a pleasant three-mile path to hike around the area. It's an ideal place to take a break with friends or family for a picnic and barbeque. 6. Plaza Park Featuring one of the largest picnic areas in Visalia CA, Plaza Park features a great pond for fishing. This spot provides a fantastic playground for the kids, lots of ducks, a dog park, a baseball diamond, tennis courts, and lots of space for family events and outdoor parties. If you enjoy photography, there's a lot to capture on film, from your fresh catch to great scenery and wildlife. 7. Lake Success Lake Success is located near Porterville and offers a lot of spectacular fishing. The lake is formed with a dam from the Tule River, which the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers own. The surrounding area is clean and well maintained year-round. It's one of the best places to get away from the city and enjoy the great outdoors. Finding a great place to go fishing is easy in and around Tulare and within the local county. Visit us at Stone Chevrolet Buick GMC to view our showroom of new and previously owned vehicles after your next fishing trip.

Nestled in the center of the state of California is Tulare. This small town is in the perfect location to start a road trip. California has some of the best cities and parks in the country, and they're just waiting to be explored. Here are our five most unforgettable road trips to take from Tulare, CA. 1. Los Angeles, California The most well-known city in the state is only approximately 173 miles from your starting point. A popular tour you can take in the city is the celebrity homes and Hollywood sightseeing tour. On this tour, you'll see all the best sights in Los Angeles and some houses of your favorite celebrities. You can't go to Los Angeles without seeing the Hollywood Sign. In Griffith Park, you'll find a manageable hike to the sign where you can pose for pictures. more 2. Furnace Creek, California Two hundred ninety miles to the east is Furnace Creek. Here you'll find the visitor center for Death Valley National Park. This park is one of nine national parks in the state. You'll see beautiful sights while visiting this park. There are sand dunes, mountains, and craters, making it one of the most popular parks. When planning for this trip, try to avoid visiting from May through September when temperatures reach dangerously high levels. 3. San Jose, California A little over three hours north of Tulare is San Jose. This bustling city is filled with activities for you. If you want to experience authentic Japanese cuisine and culture, head to Japanese Town. You can dine at their restaurants and spend time exploring the various shops. If you're over 21 years of age, you'll want to visit J. Lohr Vineyards and Winery. You can schedule a tasting of their delicious wines and visit their shop if you'd like to take some home. 4. Yosemite Valley, California Yosemite National Park is another spectacular park you can visit from Tulare. Yosemite Valley is the most popular and crowded area of the park. Yosemite has over 750 miles of hiking trails for you to explore. There are multiple mountain peaks you can hike to for glorious views of the valley below. You may even come across waterfalls depending on the path you take. If you want to travel on multiple trails, consider bringing supplies to camp in the park. 5. Big Sur, California If you head west for about 225 miles, you'll reach Big Sur. Big Sur is home to Pfeiffer Beach, which is a popular spot for surfers. This beach is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun as well as spend your day in the Pacific Ocean. It's okay if you don't want to spend your day at the beach. Big Sur is home to plenty of state parks to explore and see the California coastline's picturesque views. California is home to many different landscapes. You'll find cities, rural areas, mountains, and coastline. When traveling throughout the state, you'll need a vehicle that is equipped to keep you safe on any terrain. Visit Stone Chevrolet Buick GMC today to find your next car that's made for adventure.

Most people who love a great Chinese meal know just how hard it can be to find that perfect restaurant that does things just right. That's why we're here to help you out with some tips and guidance on where you can go to enjoy some tasty Chinese dishes when you're in town. With the list, we hope to introduce you to four great places to find some excellent Chinese food in and around the Tulare, CA area. 1. China Garden Perhaps the greatest appeal of a Chinese restaurant like China Garden is the fact that the menu is brief and to the point. The staff here likes to perfect a few dishes rather than dividing up their food into several different dishes. However, there is still plenty of variety here to meet the needs of each person in your party. If you're looking for the right flavors that match up with traditional Chinese meals, then be sure to try out China Garden's Chicken Chow Mein, Mu Shu Chicken, or Spicy Kung Pao Beef. These dishes, like the rest of the restaurant's menu, are infused with classic Chinese flavors like Sichuan peppercorns, chilis, and ginger. more 2. Lucky Star Chinese Restaurant Lucky Star Chinese Restaurant is a small and modest Chinese restaurant. Despite its size and minimal approach to Chinese dishes, the entrees on the menu here pack a real punch, both in terms of flavor and value. Lucky Star doesn't aim to break the mold with its dishes, instead, it strives to offer guests a distinct dining experience built upon a solid foundation of traditional Chinese dishes. For example, you may want to try out Lucky Star's Pot Stickers and Egg Foo Young for a desirable combination of Chinese staples. On top of this, Lucky Star is happy to offer the more daring guests some spicy dishes that can heat things up quickly. Many of their seafood dishes also use fish and shellfish in interesting contexts to create unique and memorable meals. 3. Grand Star Buffet As one of the more notable buffets in the area, Grand Star Buffet is sure to satisfy those who have a big appetite. As with many Chinese buffets, Grand Star aims to rotate their special dishes to keep things fresh and exciting. But don't worry, you'll always be able to find those reliable staples here such as Crab Rangoons, Orange Chicken, Shrimp Fried Rice, and Chicken Lo Mein, too. The buffet is also quite generous with its offering of more Americanized Chinese dishes. You can find some savory American treats and desserts here that will provide the perfect closer to a tasty meal. The perfect Chinese restaurant is never too far away when you find yourself in the local area. With such a wealth of great spots to try out, we hope you'll keep returning to enjoy all those Chinese dishes that you love so much. Contact the team at Stone Chevrolet Buick GMC today for more information on all of our vehicle options for you and your loved ones.

Looking for the perfect road trip vehicle? You need a few key elements for an enjoyable ride. These include a comfortable interior, plenty of cargo space, appealing safety and tech features, and excellent efficiency. One model that has it all is the 2021 Chevy Bolt, which showcases a redesigned exterior and a long list of standard and available features. Comfortable Interior One of the major enhancements made to the 2021 Chevrolet Bolt is to the seats which now offer a more comfortable ride on a long trip. The front seats boast adjustable lumbar support, high-end stitching, and soft materials that keep the driver and front passenger feeling good. The steering wheel has also been upgraded, showing off a sporty flat bottom that feels sleek and properly weighted in your hands. Plenty of Cargo Space The Bolt has a surprisingly spacious cabin and plenty of room for all your cargo in the rear. In fact, this model has more cargo space than most other vehicles in the electric and hybrid car class, boasting 16.9 cubic feet of space when the rear seats are up. Fold them down and you'll have 56.6 cubic feet of space for anything you plan to bring on your road trip. You can also get a false cargo floor on the top trim that provides a flat load floor when the rear seats are down. more Appealing Safety and Tech Features Chevy added Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration to the list of features on the 2021 Bolt, making it easier to connect wirelessly and enjoy your favorite tunes or find your destination with the navigation functionality. The infotainment system in the Bolt also got a significant upgrade that gives it improved functionality along with multiple USB-C ports that are powerful enough to charge tablets. A wireless device charger is also available in the lineup, and it's located in the dashboard where it allows for both wireless charging and smartphone integration projection. On the safety side, the Bolt boasts high safety ratings and a number of active and passive features. All trims include 10 air bags, a rearview camera, LED daytime running lamps, OnStar emergency telecommunications, and stability and traction control. An optional package bundles lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision warning with automatic braking. Excellent Efficiency The electric Chevy Bolt can drive up to 259 miles on a single charge, which means you have plenty of time to explore before you need to connect to the charger. You can also upgrade to a DC fast charger which is especially helpful when you're on the road for longer periods of time. The powertrain features a 66-kWh lithium-ion battery mounted beneath the floor, an electric motor, and a single-speed transmission. The combined output is 266 pound-feet of torque and 200 horsepower. Visit Stone Chevrolet Buick GMC in Tulare, CA to take the 2021 Chevy Bolt for a test drive. Find out for yourself what makes this the ultimate road trip vehicle. Our friendly sales team is always ready to answer your questions and help you find a vehicle that will fit your needs.

Often, one of the most overlooked parts of a vehicle is the tires. Keeping tires in top-notch shape is a must. Having quality tires allows your vehicle to handle better, increases gas mileage, can save money, and keeps you from being stranded. Here are four tasks to keep your tires in perfect shape. 1. Check Air Pressure The first task that most people neglect to do is to check your tire's air pressure. This should be completed once a month or after a long trip. It's best to check the pressure in your car in the morning before you start driving. Check the pressure in all four wheels, plus the spare. Having the proper pressure in your tires will save you money by increasing the life of the tire and by improving the performance of your vehicle, resulting in better gas mileage. The next time you are at the hardware store, pick up a quality tire gauge so that you can properly check your tire pressure. more 2. Have Alignment Checked Next, having an alignment performed on your vehicle will ensure your tires are wearing properly. An alignment should be completed anytime new tires are installed, suspension work has been completed, unusual tire wear is noticed, or if the vehicle has encountered a major road hazard or curb. There are different types of alignments. Check with your mechanic to see which type is best for your vehicle. 3. Rotate Your Tires Another task to perform to keep your tires in perfect condition is tire rotation. You want to rotate your tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles. When you get your oil changed, get your tires rotated. This will allow you to kill two birds with one stone, and they will both be on the same schedule. Tire rotation will allow your tires to wear evenly, providing you with better maneuvering and control. 4. Look at Tire Tread Checking your tire's tread is another task you can complete to keep your tires in tip-top shape. A trick you can use to determine if your tire tread is sufficient is to use a quarter. Put Washington's head face down in the tire tread. If any part of his head is obscured, you have enough tread. Tire tread makes a big difference when it comes to stopping your vehicle. Studies have shown that tires with low tread can take well over 250 feet to stop in the rain. With decent tread, the same tire will take under 200 feet to stop in the same conditions. Get out your quarters and check your tread so that you can keep your family safe. It's also important to note that you should keep the better tread on the rear tires. The reasoning for this is because deeper tread will grip the pavement better. This will help prevent your car from hydroplaning or fishtailing. Having better tread in the back corrects any of these issues faster. Taking care of your tires is essential when owning a vehicle. These are a few simple tasks you can complete to keep your tires up to par. The rubber is what hits the road, and keeping your tires in perfect condition will keep you and your family safe. If you have any questions about your tires contact us at Stone Chevrolet Buick GMC, we are here to help in any way we can! Image via Pixabay.com by Mikes-Photography

Most drivers understand the importance of engine oil. It helps lubricate your car's internal parts, keeps them cool, and prevents wear and tear. Choosing the right oil for your vehicle can be a bit tricky. Use this guide to sort out all those numbers, letters, and terms so you can go home from the auto parts store with the right product. Viscosity Viscosity indicates how easily oil pours at a specified temperature. On the label, that's the number before the W — which stands for "winter." It refers to how thick the oil is at zero degrees Fahrenheit. The second number after the dash refers to its thickness at 212 degrees Fahrenheit. Motor oil thins when it heats up and thickens as it cools. Thicker oil does a better job of maintaining a protective film between moving parts. The higher that second number, 10W-40 versus 10W-30, the more resistant that particular bottle of oil is to thinning. more In low temperatures, the oil must resist thickening in order to flow properly throughout your engine. If it's too thick, it will be more difficult to start your car, and it may adversely affect your fuel economy ratings. A lower number before the W is the best choice for cold-weather performance, like a 5W product. Premium Conventional Oil When you look at the oil on the shelves of your local auto parts store, you'll see types for all kinds of purposes. Premium conventional oil is the new-car standard. It's available in several choices for viscosity, such as 5W-20, 5W-30, and 10W-30. These three choices work well for most light-duty vehicles. Full Synthetic Oil If your vehicle is equipped with a high-tech engine like the latest model Corvette or it's designed for heavy-duty use, such as the Silverado, you may want to consider a full synthetic oil. These products have passed stringent tests for superior, long-lasting performance. They are designed to deliver better flow at low temperatures, and they resist breakdown in high heat. This is one of the most expensive options, though, and not every engine needs it. If you're commuting with a Malibu sedan, don't waste your money on full synthetics. Synthetic Blend Oil Just like it sounds, this type of engine oil is a blend of synthetic and organic lubricants. It's an ideal choice if you're towing heavy loads or consistently driving in high temperatures. They resist oil loss from evaporation and increase fuel economy. These blends are popular with truck and SUV owners who want extra protection for less than the cost of a fully synthetic product. Changing Your Oil There's a ton of controversy about how often you should change your oil. Some experts recommend every 4,000 miles, while others say at least twice a year. The best resource to answer this question is your owner's manual. If you're still unsure when to perform this routine maintenance, visit the experts at Stone Chevrolet Buick GMC service center. Oil is vital to keeping your car's engine running smoothly. Use this guide to help choose the right one for your vehicle. Image via Pixaby.com by Skica911