Ken Parkinson, Executive Director of Design talks 2014 Sierra

The Encore molds functionality into a smaller footprint, and wraps the nicely appointed package in contemporary, crossover styling.

Upscale, Downsized: 2013 Buick Encore

As even I might surmise from the name, the Leather trim level has leather trimmed seats, as do Premium models. Standard and Convenience feature cloth. Regardless of what they're wrapped in, the front seats have enough travel to suit the typical, NBA player (avg. height: 6'7"). I see those raised eyebrows. Skeptics, please note that my co-pilot at the Encore launch was 6'6", and he actually had to move the seat up slightly from its furthest rearward reaches to drive comfortably. With that much push-back, of course, there's nothing left for rear seat leg room. However, I'm 6'1", and I was able to find a seat position where I could be comfortable in front and would be in back if, uh, I was sitting behind myself.

Storage space measures 18.8 cubic feet in the cargo bay. Visualize that as six, big grocery bags. Extra space can be had by folding, either/both of the 60/40 split rear seat backs. This raises the stowage ante to 48.4 cu. ft. While the seatbacks fold to a fairly flat load floor, you'll first have to remove the rear head rests. The front passenger seat folds (mostly) flush as well, to accommodate really long items.

Front cabin storage spots are plentiful, if mainly small, and include trays in the center console, upper and lower glove boxes, door pockets, seatback pockets, eight beverage holders, and a hidden, phone-sized spot to the left of the steering wheel.

While most extras are bundled into trim packages, freestanding options can be added to any level. They include an upgraded sound system with GPS navigation, a 7-inch touch screen display and various audio inputs ($795), a power tilt/slide moon roof ($800), and chrome 18-inch rims ($995).

A compact, premium crossover like Encore is a logical choice to introduce new people to the Buick brand. How large this new market sector is remains to be seen. Buick believes that the target market is a bi-modal blend of young professionals and downsizing empty-nesters. What they'll find here they should like. Encore molds functionality into a smaller footprint, and wraps the nicely appointed package in contemporary, crossover styling.

(Courtesy of Times Union)

The 2014 GMC Sierra Truck Engine

Watch and find out why the engines in the new 2014 GMC Sierra Truck are our most highly engineered Sierra engines, ever.

ATS a Finalist for North American Car of the Year

The all-new Cadillac ATS luxury sport sedan is a finalist for 2013 North American Car of the Year. The winner, based on the votes of a panel of 49 journalists, will be announced on Jan. 14, 2013 during the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

"The all-new ATS is the result of a comprehensive and focused mission to create a new sport sedan that challenges the world’s best,” said Don Butler, vice president of Cadillac marketing. "It’s rewarding to the entire team that created ATS to be recognized for its hard work by auto experts."

A compact sport sedan, smaller than Cadillac’s centerpiece CTS product line, the new ATS is the lightest car in its class with a unique architecture designed for nimble driving performance. The new ATS is offered in rear- and all-wheel drive versions, with a choice of powerful and efficient four- and six-cylinder engines.

(Courtesy of Cadillac News)

Energy Saving Driving and Car Maintenance Tips!

Driving Tips

• Idling gets you 0 miles per gallon. The best way to warm up a vehicle is to drive it. No more than 30 seconds of idling on winter days is needed. Anything more simply wastes fuel and increases emissions.

• Aggressive driving (speeding, rapid acceleration, and hard braking) wastes gas. It can lower your highway gas mileage 33% and city mileage 5%.

• Avoid high speeds. Above 60 mph, gas mileage drops rapidly.

• Clear out your car; extra weight decreases gas mileage by 1% to 2% for every 100 pounds.

• Reduce drag by placing items inside the car or trunk rather than on roof racks. A roof rack or carrier provides additional cargo space and may allow you to buy a smaller car. However, a loaded roof rack can decrease your fuel economy by 5% or more.

• Check into telecommuting, carpooling and public transit to cut mileage and car maintenance costs.

Car Maintenance Tips

• Use the grade of motor oil recommended by your car's manufacturer. Using a different motor oil can lower your gasoline mileage by 1% to 2%.

• Keep tires properly inflated and aligned to improve your gasoline mileage by around 3.3%.

• Get regular engine tune-ups and car maintenance checks to avoid fuel economy problems due to worn spark plugs, dragging brakes, low transmission fluid, or transmission problems.

• Replace clogged air filters to improve gas mileage by as much as 10% and protect your engine.

• Combine errands into one trip. Several short trips, each one taken from a cold start, can use twice as much fuel as one trip covering the same distance when the engine is warm.

(Courtesy of U.S. Department of Energy)

Make sure to take advantage of the Buick LaCrosse Holiday Event

Make sure you stop in to get one before they're gone!

Our service specials will help you save this season!

Don't let winter get the best of you! Make sure to take advantage of our December coupons and have your cooling system inspected!

Follow the link to see this and other service specials! http://bit.ly/VB6f8c

XTS and ATS Drive Cadillac Momentum

Cadillac’s new ATS sport sedan and XTS luxury sedan drove a 30 percent increase in total November sales with strong performances on both U.S. coasts. Retail sales were up 23 percent in California and 37 percent in the Northeast.

Retail sales of the all-new compact ATS increased 87 percent in November compared to October, and half of its buyers came from competing brands.

In November, ATS was named Vehicle of the Year Award by the Motor Press Guild, the largest association of automotive journalists, following accolades from Popular Mechanics and Esquire.

The XTS is a new formula for large luxury, with 96 percent of its sales coming from retail buyers. It is the first car to feature CUE, Cadillac’s new system for connectivity and control that is a finalist for AOL Autos’ Technology of the Year Award.

“The new ATS and XTS elevate and expand our portfolio,” said Chase Hawkins, vice president of Cadillac U.S. sales. “This is driving new buyers to our showrooms, which also benefits existing models like the SRX crossover.”

The SRX had its best November sales month ever, up 13 percent over the previous year.

November marked the sixth consecutive month of sales growth for Cadillac, and was the best November since 2007.

(Courtesy of Cadillac Media)

Canadian Cadillac Driver Academy

The 3rd installment of the Cadillac Driver Academy took place at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park in Bowmanville, Ontario. This program provides a unique opportunity for Cadillac owners to take on a world-class race track.

We've got 2 for 1 oil changes!

Just head over to our Facebook page and click the "Offers" tab to print out the coupon! We'll see you soon! http://on.fb.me/VFVZ4g

Katie Rodgers: Pinboard To Dashboard presented by the Buick Encore

Ten of the top design, fashion, food and lifestyle bloggers developed Pinterest boards showcasing how the Buick Encore speaks to their personal style and life passions.

Winter Maintenance Tip: Check your tire pressure

Here are two good reasons to get down there with the gauge and unscrew the valve caps as the weather cools:

1) Tires lose a pound of pressure for every drop of 10 degrees Fahrenheit.

2) An underinflated tire won't "bite" through snow down to the pavement as well as one at pressure. It's similar to hydroplaning on water -- and just as dangerous. You may have heard the guidance to let air out of your tires for sand or snow to get more contact surface area. That only applies only if the surface is bottomlessly soft, like a beach or foot-deep, unplowed snow -- not the mix of cleared road, ice and packed snow most of us encounter in daily driving.

Don't forget to put the valve caps back on (or, buy new ones) when you're done. Letting in moisture, which then freezes, could let the valve core leak out air.

(Courtesy of kiplinger.com)

Stop in and save with GMC's Holiday Sales Event!

The 2012 Sierra is a 315 horsepower, 503 liter V8 Nutcracker.

Cadillac ATS Wins Urban Car of the Year Award

DETROIT –The all-new Cadillac ATS today was named 2013 Urban Car of the Year by Decisive magazine. This award is part of the Urban Wheel Awards held annually each January at the North American International Auto Show.

The ATS was chosen in part for its performance when tested in urban environments for comfort, ease of maneuvering and technical sophistication. The Urban Wheel Awards judging panel spent several months determining the most stylish, practical and attainable new vehicles for 2013 before settling on winners for car, truck, and green vehicle of the year.

"The ATS is the latest and most significant step in Cadillac's long-term mission to return to being the standard of the world,” said Don Butler, vice president of Cadillac Marketing. “That makes it especially rewarding to have ATS recognized by experts on the leading edge of cars and culture."

(Courtesy of Cadillac Media)

Savings are only a click away!

In honor of Cyber Monday make sure to head to our site and check out our internet specials! Just follow the link: http://bit.ly/XXglY8

GMC Terrain Small SUV Sales Event

With these sales it really is the most wonderful time of the year!

Monday Maintenance Tip: Preserve your car during long-term storage

Preserve your car during long-term storage

If you are not going to use your car for more than a month, store it properly to prevent unnecessary damage and repairs upon your return.

• Fill the gas tank to help prevent condensation from accumulating in the gas tank. Add a fuel stabilizer and drive the car around a bit to distribute the additive to engine parts.
• Wash and wax the car thoroughly to protect the finish.
• Place a vapor barrier on your garage floor. A 4-mil polyethylene drop cloth will do.
• Disengage the parking brake to help avoid brake corrosion.
• Put the car on jack stands to take the weight of the vehicle off the wheels and tires.
• Disconnect and remove the battery to keep it from draining. Place the battery on a trickletype charger. Or periodically drain the battery, using a small light bulb, and then recharge it with a low-volt charger.
• Plug the tailpipe with a rag to prevent moist air from infiltrating into it.

Courtesy of Reader's Digest

Fred Taylor a GMC Never Say Never Legend

Fred Taylor never gave up and neither should you!

Earn $2,000 Consumer Cash with the purchase of the 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 Regular Cab!

Wouldn't you want to earn $2000 with the purchase of your next truck?

Follow the link to learn how! http://on.fb.me/RYhAj8

Buicks Are ‘In’ This Season in Trend-Setting Miami

Miami – a city dominated by luxury and import vehicles – is among the places where Buick is growing rapidly. More than twice as many metropolitan Miami car shoppers chose Buick in October compared to 2011, with retail sales up 117 percent.

“Miami is a unique and challenging market,” said Greg Ross, Buick regional zone manager for Florida. “Luxury brands often outsell more affordable brands and the mainstream segments are import-oriented, too. Buick’s growth in this image-conscious market is all about great products, advertising and dealers.”

Mark Naszradi, general manager for Williamson Buick-GMC in Miami, credits Experience Buick for attracting new customers to his showroom. “The new approach to leasing has really helped us,” Naszradi said. “Miami is a big leasing area.”

Experience Buick is a 24-month lease that includes SiriusXM satellite radio, OnStar Directions and Connections and oil changes in the monthly payments. Since launching in mid-March, lease penetration has grown from 47 percent of Buick sales in Miami to 65 percent in October.

Nationally, leasing has more than doubled since the introduction of Experience Buick.

Courtesy of Buick News

Monday Maintenance Tip: Keep an auto log

Keep an auto log

Keep a pad and pencil in the glove compartment and use them to record your gas fill-ups and mileage. If you notice that your gas mileage worsens, mention it to your service man. It may be an early warning sign that something is wrong with your car.

Courtesy of Readers Digest

Buick Regal GS takes on grocery shopping!

A 270hp high-output ECOTEC 2.0L turbocharged engine tells you what you already know on sight. This is a luxury sport sedan you must experience.

Take 10% off with this eCoupon!

Take advantage of our eCoupon and save 10% on parts and services!

Head over to our Facebook and find the "Offers" tab to print to coupon, or just follow the link! http://on.fb.me/VFVZ4g

GMC breaks the record for world's fastest tow!

Jason Sands pilots a GMC 2500HD and tries to break the Guinness World Record for the fastest speed towing a trailer at El Mirage Dry Lake Bed.

2013 Buick Enclave- First Drive Review

Get to know it before you buy it!

2013 Cadillac XTS AWD Platinum Road Test

At first we thought GM's President Mark Reuss and his minions had lost their minds. Like, big-time crazy. Like, book these bozos rooms at the funny farm 'cause they've lost it, man.

Now, after spending two weeks driving this 2013 Cadillac XTS AWD Platinum, we know it's true. Reuss and company are nuts. But in a good way.

Last year Cadillac retired the DTS and the STS, two large sedans popular with people who are, well...retired. Average age of DTS owners was 73, while the STS got the younger crowd at 68.

Those two large sedans are being replaced by one. This one, the 2013 Cadillac XTS.

And for months Reuss has been out on the interview circuit saying the XTS will battle the 2013 Audi A6, the 2013 BMW 5 Series and the 2013 Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

Huh? Battle the 5 Series? Take on the E-Class? Sounds like crazy talk. The XTS shares its front-wheel-drive platform and its drivetrain with the 2013 Buick LaCrosse, for heaven's sake. How can it possibly measure up to those now-iconic German sport sedans?

Well, the crazy part is that it does. Reuss and his gang of merry misfits have actually pulled off this miracle and the XTS, while not perfect, is ready to redefine the large Cadillac sedan.

Monday Maintenance Tip: Go easy when you are stuck

Go easy when you’re stuck

When stuck in mud or snow, don’t make the problem worse by damaging an expensive component. Gently rocking in an attempt to free the car is fine. But if it looks as though you’re really stuck, don’t keep at it. Throwing your car from forward to reverse repeatedly, as well as spinning tires at high speeds, can generate lots of heat and spell trouble for transmissions, clutches, and differentials. It may be cheaper in the long run to call the tow truck rather than risk big repair bills down the road. It’s a good idea to carry a traction aid in the trunk, such as sand, gravel, or cat litter.

--Don't end up like these guys.--

Cadillac ATS vs. The World!

I would say the ATS is the winner!

Take 10% off on us with this eCoupon!

We've got savings for you!

 

Buick and GMC Claim Four Awards in Texas

DETROIT – The 2013 Buick Enclave luxury crossover arrives at dealerships soon, and already is garnering praise from some critics. The Texas Auto Writers Association named Enclave the “Crossover Utility Vehicle of Texas” after testing the industry’s newest models.

In what the organization called “an enormously competitive category,” Enclave came out ahead of Audi, Infiniti, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen and other competitors.

Buick and GMC combined for three individual crossover category wins. Enclave won “Full-size Luxury Crossover,” the 2013 GMC Acadia won “Full-size Crossover” and the 2013 GMC Terrain won “Mid-size Crossover.”

“These latest awards for Enclave, Acadia and Terrain come from one of the nation’s largest and most-important vehicle markets,” said Tony DiSalle, vice president of Buick and GMC Marketing. “Texas drivers are also some of the most demanding – especially when it comes to utility vehicles – so this is high praise.”

Enclave and Acadia are the first two of nine new Buick and GMC models being introduced in the next nine months. The 2013 Terrain launched earlier this year with a new optional 301-horsepower, 3.6L V-6 and a new Denali trim level.

Courtesy of Buick News Room

Cadillac and golf. What more could you ask for?

Join the World's #1 Golf Instructor David Leadbetter at TPC Potomac at Avenal Farm in Washington D.C., as he tackles some of golf's most difficult shots.

We've got great specials for you!

Are you looking to get a great special!

Well stop looking and just click! http://bit.ly/P8HfEU

GM to build electric Cadillac ELR in 2013!

General Motors plans to build the all-new Cadillac ELR extended-range electric vehicle at its Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly plant.

The automaker expects to start production of the luxury coupe in late 2013, GM North America President Mark Reuss was set to announce today at the SAE Convergence conference in Detroit.

The ELR will vault Cadillac into direct competition with other luxury electric vehicles like Fisker Automotive’s Karma and Tesla Motors’ Model S.

The vehicle, based on the same extended-range electric powertrain as the Chevrolet Volt, is based on the Cadillac Converj concept vehicle that was introduced at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

GM said it would spend $35 million to upgrade equipment at the Detroit-Hamtramck plant, which already produces the Volt and is gearing up to make the redesigned 2014 Chevrolet Impala. A spokesman said the automaker does not plan to add any jobs to the 27-year-old plant’s 1,400 hourly and 160 salary employees.

Production volumes for the two-door, four-seat ELR are expected to be relatively low. GM hasn’t revealed pricing or details on the vehicle’s electric-only range. The $40,000 2013 Volt’s T-shaped lithium-in battery pack allows the vehicle to travel 38 miles on a single charge of electricity before a gasoline engine-generator kicks in and powers an electric motor.

The ELR will similarly rely on an extended-range system that provides all-electric drive with the option to switch to gasoline.

Reuss hinted that GM would reveal the production version of the ELR at the 2013 Detroit auto show.

“The ELR will be in a class by itself, further proof of our commitment to electric vehicles and advanced technology,” Reuss said, according to a copy of his prepared remarks. “People will instantly recognize it as a Cadillac by its distinctive, signature look and true-to-concept exterior design.

The news comes as GM is also expected to unveil a redesigned Cadillac Escalade in 2013 after delivering the all-new Cadillac ATS compact sedan and Cadillac XTS large sedan in 2012.

“ELR will contribute mightily to the brand momentum of Cadillac, as it continues a big product push in the global luxury market,” Reuss said.

Monday Maintenance Tip: Buy gas at reputable service stations

Ask whether the gas you buy is filtered at the pump and if the station has a policy about changing the pump filters regularly. If you get a song and dance, find another gas station. Some stations don’t have pump filters, making you more vulnerable to dirty gasoline. Other stations may not mix alcohol and fuel properly — or worse, water down their product. Find a station you trust and stick to it.

(Courtesy of Reader's Digest)

See why the Pember family are Buick owners for life

Need a part for your vehicle?

Look no further than our easy to use parts order form on our website.  While you're there, be sure to check out our current service specials! 

GMC Sierra 1500 is good-looking and comfortable

The competition between automakers has its battlegrounds, but none is more fiercely fought over than the pick-up truck segment. The reason is quite simple; more trucks are sold every year in North America than any vehicle, and that means market share. If you own a GMC truck you are more likely to consider a GM car for your second vehicle thanks to brand loyalty.

Pick-up trucks came from a purely utilitarian need for a commercial vehicle, but in the 1950s certain models were gussied up for the average consumer who enjoyed having the cargo capacity but wanted something more refined. And so began the escalating war of features and options between the Big Three automakers.

All pick-ups, domestic or foreign-made, are front-engined, RWD, 4WD or AWD, cab in the middle with a cargo box in the back. The areas that are open for innovation are the powertrain and the cab, be it two-door or four.

Design:

The 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 is the most popular offering from General Motors and is up against the F-150 of Ford and the Dodge RAM 1500. The exterior styling has been freshened up with a chrome mesh grille and bumper while our SLT model had a colour-matched grille and bumper which in Onyx Black looked very slick.

A pair of six-inch chromed oval tubular “assist steps” or running boards add some flash below the rocker panels and give you a leg up when getting in and out of the truck. The Z71 4X4 Package adds some decals to the flanks of the cargo box along with a higher ride height.

The squared-off styling makes for a tough-looking vehicle and follows today’s trends quite nicely. Large double-stacked headlights and a large pair of fog lights dominate the squared-off front fascia.

Inside the crew cab there is a continuation of the black on black theme with some dark grey to break up the monotony.

The front bucket seats have leather inserts, and feature power 10-way driver and front-passenger seat adjusters (including power two-way lumbar adjuster), heated seat cushions and seatbacks, two-position driver memory, a cavernous centre floor console and seatback storage pockets for maps, etc. The rear seats are stadium-style fold-up seats on both the Extended and Crew Cab models with a 60/40 split.

For entertainment there is a Bose Premium sound system with subwoofer (in the centre console), auto tone control, speed-compensated volume, TheftLock and USB port.

Performance:

The Sierra 1500 SLT had been graced with the 5.3L Vortec V8 motor upgrade, which is a flexfuel engine meaning it can burn unleaded gasoline or up to 85 per cent ethanol thanks to with Active Fuel Management. Variable Valve Timing helps this engine generate 315 horsepower and 335 foot-pounds of torque. Power is distributed through a six-speed transmission with overdrive to a transfer case that can drive either the rear wheels or all of them at the simple turn of a knob.

This is all part of the All Terrain Package – includes "All Terrain" badging on front fenders and carpeted floor mats, brushed metal accents on instrument panel 18-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels, P265/65R18 On/Off road tires and Z71 Off-Road suspension. The Z71 Off-Road Chassis Package adds 46 mm monotube Rancho shock absorbers, off-road jounce bumpers and heavy-duty front stabilizer bar, also includes high-capacity air cleaner, skid plates, an industry-exclusive Eaton automatic locking rear differential, and the Z71 decals.

Driving/utility:

The 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 is a well-designed truck that combines utility with comfort. Even with the more aggressive All-Terrain Package, F85 and ZR71 suspension upgrades, the Sierra’s ride was never annoyingly rigid, a pitfall with unloaded trucks. I took the Sierra on an extended trip from Montreal to New Jersey with a few hundred pounds of cargo and it rode like a car.

Pick-up trucks do require prudence when driving on winding roads. They are heavy and have a higher centre of gravity than a car, but you don’t get this cargo capacity in a smaller vehicle. GMC provides their StabiliTrak electronic stability control system to automatically help control lateral skids and have proven to reduce some types of crashes by up to 63 per cent. StabiliTrak now includes electronic trailer sway control.

The 5.3L Vortec V8 had plenty of power for passing and climbing through the mountains while returning decent fuel mileage. Once again, this is a big boxy truck, not a sleek sports car.

Access to the cargo box was more awkward than its two main rivals, which have clever retractable steps that make loading and securing your cargo easier.

The 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT is certainly a contender for the domestic pick-up truck marketplace. It can be well optioned to suit your needs and deliver both your passengers and cargo with style.

(Courtesy of the Montreal Gazette)

Monday Maintenance Tip: Be patient during the break-in period

You’ve bought your dream car and now you want to make it last at long as possible in top condition. Here are some things to remember as you pull it out of the dealer’s lot:

• During the break-in period, typically the first 1,000 miles (1,600 km), keep your speed under 55 mph (88 kpm) or to the speed recommended by your car’s manufacturer.
• Avoid heavy loads on the drive train, such as towing trailers, and loading the roof rack or trunk with heavy construction materials.
• Do not allow your new car to idle for long periods — this is good advice for the life of your car, but especially during breakin. The oil pressure generated by doing so may not be sending oil to every part of your engine.
• Use only light to medium acceleration, keeping the engine rpms below 3,000 for the first few hours of driving.

(Courtesy of Reader's Digest)

Buick Human Highlight Reel!

Check out John Loose on the Buick Human Highlight Reel!

Make sure to stop by and save!

Hey fans! Make sure to take advantage of our eCoupon! Save today!

Fuel-Efficient Models Drive Buick Growth on West Coast

Buick retail sales rose 10 percent year over year in September and are on track for the brand’s best sales year since 2006, due in part to growth in markets like California. Total sales for Buick in September were up 8 percent year over year.

Year-over-year Buick sales have increased every month since February in California and were up 39 percent in September. Cities like San Francisco and San Diego lead the growth with September increases of 58 and 100 percent, respectively. Buick is attracting customers with eAssist technology, which delivers an EPA-estimated 36 highway mpg for the Buick LaCrosse luxury sedan and Regal luxury sport sedan.

The Verano compact luxury sedan, which offers Buick’s signature design and quietness in a smaller size, is also appealing to California buyers. Verano and Buick models with eAssist combined for 43 percent of September Buick sales in Los Angeles and 41 percent in San Diego.

“By adding purposeful technology like eAssist and entering new segments with models like Verano, Buick is appealing to a wider range of luxury buyers,” said Brian Sweeney, vice president of Buick Sales and Service. “Our consistent growth in competitive markets like California is a testament to design and engineering that goes into every vehicle.”

By the end of 2012, Verano will be available in dealerships with a new 2.0L turbocharged engine producing 250 horsepower, enough to deliver an estimated acceleration from 0-60 mph in 6.2 seconds while still getting an EPA-estimated 31 mpg on the highway. Verano Turbo will have a suggested retail price of $29,990, including destination.

Experience Buick has also contributed to Buick’s growth by expanding leases from 15 percent of the brand’s new vehicle deliveries when it launched in mid-March to 36 percent in September. Experience Buick is a 24-month lease that includes SiriusXM satellite radio, OnStar Directions and Connections and oil changes in the monthly payments.

Courtesy of GM Media

Watch the Cadillac ATS Take On The World!

Make sure to tune in to watch the Cadillac ATS take on the world!

Check out our new inventory!

Are you looking for something new? Make sure to check out our new inventory to find the car of your dreams!

Just follow the link! http://bit.ly/QbW6Nj

Nine New Models in Next 12 Months for Buick and GMC

Product surge comes amid third year of consecutive retail sales gains for both brands

 

DETROIT – Buick and GMC told dealers today that it will introduce nine new or significantly updated models in the next 12 months, starting with the new Buick Enclave luxury crossover SUV and GMC Acadia crossover SUV this fall.

The new Buick Encore small luxury crossover, which will be priced at $24,950 including a $750 destination charge, arrives in early 2013. A Buick Regal luxury sport sedan, Buick LaCrosse luxury sedan, GMC Sierra and Sierra HD full-size pickups, as well as GMC Yukon and Yukon XL full-size SUVs will arrive next year.

In addition to these nine models, GMC will offer luxury-appointed Denali versions of its four upcoming vehicles and a new 2.0L turbocharged powertrain will be available in the Buick Verano this year.

By the end of 2013, the oldest non-commercial models in a Buick/GMC showroom will be the Buick Verano luxury sedan and GMC Terrain small SUV. Verano has been in dealer showrooms for less than a year and has gained sales volume every month since launch. Terrain arrived as a 2010 model and is on pace for its best sales year ever in 2012. A new Denali luxury trim level recently was added.

GMC also announced the return of the GMC Canyon midsize pickup as an all-new model to be built in Wentzville, Mo. Arrival timing will be announced later.

“While we continue to make strong progress in fuel economy gains on our full-size trucks, we know that there is a group of customers who want the functionality of a truck but may not need full-size pickup,” said Tony DiSalle, vice president of Buick and GMC Marketing. “We believe that introducing a new, agile and efficient mid-size Canyon will meet the needs of many pickup buyers.”

Buick and GMC have grown together as distinctly different but complementary brands. Together, they have sold more than 400,000 vehicles so far this year, a pace that should allow each brand to achieve a third consecutive year of sales gains.

“We’re not only selling more vehicles, we’re bringing new customers to the Buick and GMC showroom,” said Brian Sweeney, vice president of Buick and GMC Sales and Service. “Both brands report more than 40 percent conquest sales. Buick was the only automotive brand in the United States to reduce the average age of its buyer during the past five years, and GMC continues to attract more female buyers and – with Denali vehicles – more import and luxury owners.

Overall, General Motors will have 70 percent all-new or significantly refreshed products across its four U.S. brands in 2012-2013.

(Courtesy of General Motors)

Monday Maintenance Tip: Buy gas at reputable service stations

If you happen to see a gasoline tanker filling the tanks at your local gas station, come back another day or go to a different station. As the station’s underground tanks are being filled, the turbulence can stir up sediment. Sediment in your gas can clog fuel filters and fuel injectors, causing poor performance and possibly necessitating repairs.

(Courtesy of Reader's Digest)

Become an Agent of Change today!

There are only a few months left in 2012, but it is not too late to become an agent of change. Check out another one of Buick's favorite agents of change!

Interested in a test drive?

Schedule a Test Drive or get a Quick Quote on a vehicle! Call our sales team at (801) 841-3109 or follow the link and send us an email! http://bit.ly/SCsAAv

Untitled

DETROIT – Three new Cadillac models, including the ATS sport sedan, have a new advanced safety system that can automatically stop the vehicle in low-speed conditions to help avoid crashes. 

Cadillac’s Front and Rear Automatic Braking acts like a “virtual bumper,” slamming on the brakes as a last resort to help drivers in heavy traffic or even in parking lots and driveways where the driver might fail to see another vehicle or object in his path.

Automatic Front and Rear Braking is part of the new optional Driver Assist Package on the 2013 ATS sport sedan, XTS luxury sedan and SRX crossover. Relying on a network of sophisticated sensors and advanced electronics, the system can help drivers avoid crashes in low-speed conditions and reduce impact speed under higher speed circumstances.

“Radars, vision, and ultrasonic sensors in the vehicle are constantly analyzing data and working together to determine if a crash may be imminent,” said Charles Green, the driver performance specialist responsible for the development of the Driver Assist Package technologies. “Based on these calculations, the vehicle can automatically brake to avoid a crash or reduce impact speed, and if necessary, can apply the vehicle’s maximum braking capability.”

If the driver fails to respond to other alerts, such as the Safety Alert Seat vibrations, and a potential collision is imminent, the automatic braking is designed to apply the brakes and stop the vehicle.  The driver may override any automatic braking action taken by the vehicle. If the system brings the car to a stop, the electronic parking brake will hold the car in place until the driver presses the accelerator pedal.

In developing the technology, engineers had to finesse the system to avoid unwanted activations, ensuring that it is only a last resort.

“We have spent eight years researching driver behavior which has been incorporated into the design of automatic braking in the Cadillac ATS, XTS, and SRX,” said Green. “Our goal is to effectively provide an extra level of safety support while keeping the driver in complete control of the vehicle at all times.”

The Driver Assist Package will be available on Performance and Premium trim levels of ATS, XTS, and SRX. The package also includes side blind zone alert and full-speed range adaptive cruise control. ATS and XTS models will also feature a full-color, reconfigurable head-up display that helps keep the driver's eyes on the road.

(Courtesy of Autoblog.com)

Monday Maintenance Tip: Drive with care everyday

Being car considerate shouldn’t stop after the break-in. Drive with care every day and your car will reward you with longer intervals without repair.

• Do not race your car’s engine during start-up.This is a quick way to add years of wear to your engine, especially if it’s cold outside.
• Accelerate slowly when you begin your drive.The most wear to the engine and drive train occurs in the first ten to twenty minutes of operation.
• Warming the engine by letting it idle in the driveway is not a smart idea.The engine doesn’t operate at its peak temperature, resulting in incomplete fuel combustion, soot deposits on cylinder walls, oil contamination, and ultimately damaged components.
• Put less strain on your engine and automatic transmission by shifting to neutral at red lights. Otherwise, the engine is still working to push the car even while it’s stopped.
• Avoid driving at high speeds and accelerating quickly, especially when it’s very hot or very cold outside. Such driving behavior will result in more frequent repairs.
• Extend the life of your tires with careful driving. Observe posted speed limits. Avoid fast starts, stops, and turns. Avoid potholes and objects on the road. Don’t run over curbs or hit the tire against the curb when parking. And, of course, don’t burn rubber.
• When turning your steering wheel, don’t hold it in an extreme right or left position for more than a few seconds. Doing so can damage the power-steering pump.
• Consolidate your short driving trips. Most of the wear and tear — as well as the pollution your car generates — takes place in the first few minutes of driving. Doing several errands at once, during low traffic hours if possible, will keep your engine happier longer.

(Courtesy of Reader's Digest)

Get to know Warby Parker two of Buick's 2012 Agents of Change

There are only a few mouths left in 2012, but it is not too late to become an agent of change. Check out one of Buick's favorite!

Take advantage of our payment calculator to help plan for your next car!

Planning for a new car, but having trouble planning for payments?

Make it easy with our payment calculator! http://bit.ly/PjZEfX

Make sure to check out our great specials!

Are you car shopping this week? Make sure to check out our great specials!

Follow the link for savings! http://bit.ly/P8HfEU

Congratulations to our own Craig Booth for earning this great review!

Congratulations to our very own Craig Booth on earning this great review!

"And buying it was a most pleasant and pleasurable experience. Thank you, Harmon's!" - Big Reed

For the Full review click here: http://bit.ly/QA05WC

Shaq, Size Authority, tells it like it is!

Shaq finds a perfect fit in the Buick LaCrosse!

We've got a great price on pre-owned Fortes!

Looking for a great deal on a pre-owned car? Than check out our special price on over 20 2010 Kia Fortes! Click the link for more details! http://bit.ly/RmyULi

 

 

GMC Truck Month has arrived!

Its GMC Truck Month! Click on the link to check out our specials! http://bit.ly/Rmxq3D

 

GMC Terrain Assists Volunteers Following July Wildfires

[[posterous-content:pid___1]]

The July wildfires in the Western United States burned 97,000 acres of land. Disaster relief volunteer Dave Fagan, whose task was to assess the damage, traveled through 3,500 miles of bulldozed fire lines and mountain trails; and he did it in a borrowed GMC Terrain.

The experience made him a fan of the small SUV.

"The Terrain really performed," Fagan said in a statement through GMC. "When other vehicles seemed to have lost traction, the Terrain didn't, and it had great maneuverability compared to what I saw from the vehicles I drove alongside. Plus, I was impressed by the fuel economy out there where there aren't many gas stations."

The Terrain's 4-cylinder engine has an EPA rating of 22 mpg city and 32 highway. All-wheel drive models get an estimated 20 city and 29 highway. The 2013 Terrain has a new, optional 301-horsepower, 3.6-litre V-6 engine to compliment its all-wheel drive and a 3,500-pound tow rating.

"Terrain's smaller footprint that helps save weight and fuel also makes it more maneuverable on tight trails where adventurous customers might take their vehicles," said GMC lead development engineer Essy Ipakchian. "We also developed Terrain's standard StabiliTrak and optional all-wheel drive with different road conditions - rain, snow, rocks and mud - in mind."

A feature Fagan appreciated as he traversed the burned forests was the rear vision camera.

"On some narrow trails, there was only one way in and out," he said. "With tight space to turn around, the camera was very helpful. The Terrain also handled my many chargers, which made it a great mobile office."

Other features he would have found helpful were Terrain's standard hill start assist, which maintains brake pressure for 1.5 seconds to allow drivers time to press the accelerator without rolling back; and automatic grade braking, which handles the transmission gear selection on declines, keeping it in a lower gear to preserve the brakes.

"I found it outstanding," Fagan said of the Terrain. "It may be my next vehicle." 

**Courtesy of Auto World News

Check out Peyton Manning getting to know the new Buick Verano!

Buick's innovative new Verano!

Schedule an appointment with one of our Certified Service technicians today!

From oil changes to tire rotations we’re the one-stop shop for all of your maintenance and service needs! Our knowledgeable Certified Service technicians and monthly service specials make it easy for you to keep your vehicle running at its best.

Click here to schedule your appointment: http://bit.ly/SHqodr

Buick Encore to be Most Fuel-Efficient Crossover from Domestic Automaker

The 2013 Buick Encore luxury crossover is rated at an EPA-estimated 25 mpg city, 33 mpg highway and a combined 28 mpg fuel economy with a standard six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. It will save an estimated $2,100 in fuel costs over five years of ownership compared to the average new vehicle.

Encore’s combined fuel economy is based on 45 percent highway and 55 percent city driving. It is the best fuel economy for any crossover offered by a U.S.-based automaker, and the vehicle’s EPA estimated annual fuel cost of $1,900 is the same or lower than any domestic or imported 2013 model year crossover sold in the United States.

Ford’s most-efficient crossover, the 2013 Escape, is EPA estimated at 23 city/33 highway, or a combined 26 mpg. A Jeep Compass equipped with an automatic transmission is EPA estimated at 23/28 mpg, or 25 combined.

Encore boasts higher ratings than its direct import competition, including the Mini Countryman S, which gets an EPA estimated at 25/32 mpg with an automatic transmission, and the Volkswagen Tiguan. Compared to the Volkswagen’s EPA estimates of 21/26 mpg, Encore’s gains of four city mpg and seven highway mpg equate to $500 less spent on fuel for each year of ownership, based on EPA estimates. The Encore is designed to run on regular gasoline while both competitors recommend more expensive premium fuel.

Reducing weight saves fuel, so Buick engineers developed a body structure for Encore that’s 60 percent high-strength steel, providing safety benefits while trimming pounds off the vehicle. Encore is powered by a 1.4L turbocharged engine.

“Right from its inception, Encore was designed to offer customers the safety and comfort expected of any Buick, but with an added emphasis on space and fuel efficiency,” said Vehicle Chief Engineer Jim Danahy. “We did things like specify one optimized wheel and tire package to ensure that every customer has the best driving experience possible.”

When Encore goes on sale in early 2013, it will offer the interior flexibility of a 60/40 folding rear seat and a front passenger seat that folds forward for longer cargo, as well as dual glove boxes and storage bins designed for items like smartphones and tablet computers.

With the arrival of Encore, Buick will offer four different models with turbocharged four-cylinder engines and six models with EPA-estimated highway fuel economy greater than 30 mpg.

Fuel economy estimates for Encore models with all-wheel drive will be announced later.

Source: Buick News

Monday Maintenance Tip: Checking Your Spark Plugs

What is this?

Spark plugs are little devices inside the cylinder that take in high voltage electricity at one end and create a spark at the other end. There, the spark ignites the gas and air mixture, and the resulting combustion is what ultimately powers the car. This service involves removing the old spark plugs and replacing them with new ones.

Should I do this service when it's recommended?

Yes.

Why do I have to do this?

At the sparking end of the spark plug is a built-in gap between two or more little pieces of metal, called electrodes. When the plug fires, one or more sparks jump that gap and a tiny bit of the metal is burned off. This happens hundreds of times every minute. Over time, the gap between the metal tips gets too big.

Also, your spark plugs can get fouled, but that would indicate that you have a problem.

What happens if I don't do this?

Your engine will start to misfire and run poorly, performance will suffer, efficiency will decrease and emissions will dramatically increase. Your car may also be difficult to star

Is there any maintenance required between intervals?

We recommend removing the old spark plugs and reinstalling new ones at least every 30,000 miles.

Many manufacturers have long-life, 60,000- or 90,000-mile spark plugs. If you don't remove these spark plugs until they're due to be changed, you might find it extremely difficult or even impossible to remove them when the time comes. You'll also want to examine the plugs if your car is running poorly. A blackened plug, for example, can tell you that the engine is running too rich.

Courtesy: CarTalk.com

Cadillac ATS vs The World | Adaptive Forward Lighting

Car Tip of the Week

Hey Fans, we hope everyone is having a phenomenal Wednesday! To make it even better here’s your “Car Tip of the Week”!

Squeezing into the lane next to you during heavy traffic to save some time actually won't help much. Although it may SEEM as though the other cars are speeding by, it’s something of an optical illusion. Facing forward allows you to see cars passing you more easily than you notice the cars that you are passing. In the end you don’t save much time by switching lanes and you put yourself at risk of becoming a part of the 10% of all crashes that are caused by changing lanes.

The Amazing Technology of IntelliLink in Buick Verano

Monday Maintenance Tip: Changing Your Oil

What is this?

An oil and filter change involves draining out the old motor oil and replacing it with fresh, new motor oil. The oil filter also gets replaced at the same time.

Should I do this service when it's recommended?

In general, yes. Changing your vehicle's oil is one of the most important things you can do to avoid bringing large bags of money to your mechanic later on.

However, there's a lot of controversy about exactly when engine oil gets old and how often it should be replaced with new oil. Because there are many factors at work -- how you drive, the condition and age of the engine, the external environment you drive in, and stop-and-go versus highway driving -- it's an inexact science. Owner's manual recommendations for oil and filter changes vary from 3,000 to 10,000 miles.

We recommend that you change your oil and filter every 5,000 miles. That's our best estimate. It may be too soon for many people and too late for a few, but for the vast majority, 5,000-mile oil changes will help your engine last to a ripe, old age.

You may want to consider changing your oil more frequently if:

• You drive like a knucklehead: jackrabbit starts, heavy acceleration or high-speed driving
• You live where the climate is extremely hot or cold
• You often drive on dirt roads
• Your engine is old and burns oil
• You frequently carry heavy loads (several mothers-in-law or other cargo)

Why do I have to do this?

Oil undergoes thermal breakdown due to high operating temperature. When this occurs, the oil becomes less effective as a lubricant. And without a good lubricant (read: expensive), parts of the engine rub together and wear each other out.

Oil also contains additives that have the ability to neutralize acids. Over time, these additives get used up and stop being effective.

Finally, oil can absorb water, dust and combustion byproducts and also hold them in suspension. Eventually, the oil gets saturated with this stuff and can't absorb any more. Then that stuff remains in the engine and can cause corrosion.

What happens if I don't do this?

Your engine won't last as long as it could. Oil serves many crucial functions, and clean oil performs those functions better than dirty oil. Oil is relatively cheap, and changing your oil every 5,000 miles is a very cheap insurance policy against major repairs down the road.

Is there any maintenance required between intervals?

Yes, you need to check the oil level every few hundred miles. With your car parked on a level surface, remove the oil dipstick, clean it on your brother's best shirt and then reinsert it. Remove it again, and check the oil level.

Ideally, it should be right at the full mark. If it's at or below the add mark, that means you're a quart low and should add a quart of oil to the crankcase. If it's in between the two marks, you can add part of a quart to bring it up to the full mark (the distance between add and full represents a quart, so use that to estimate how much of a quart you need). Be aware, however, that since oil flows slowly when it is cool, the dipstick may not immediately reflect any oil you just added. So estimate the amount of oil you need based on your first dipstick reading, and then check it again later that day or the next day to be sure you're near the full mark.

A word of caution: Be careful not to overfill your car's crankcase with oil. If you put in too much oil, the engine's crankshaft can actually come in contact with the oil. And because the crankshaft is turning at several thousand revolutions per minute, it can quickly whip your oil into a froth -- like the steamed milk that sits on the top of a cappuccino. Why is that bad? Well, the oil pump can't pump froth very well, and as a result, it can't get oil to the parts of the engine that need lubrication. The result ... a hefty boat payment to your mechanic.

If you are low on oil, you can add any grade of engine motor oil you like -- though we advise you to use the grade of oil recommended in your owner's manual.

Courtesy: Cartalk.com

Faces of GM - GMC-OnStar Hidden Treasures Adventure

Take it easy on National Relaxation Day with Harmon's Auto Center

Today is National Relaxation Day so clear your schedule and put away those to-do lists because it's time for a break! While you're at it, take a break from the "usual" hassles of car shopping and come to Harmon's Auto Center where you'll always receive quality customer service from a dealer you can trust.

To start shopping just click here: http://bit.ly/LudkCo

Team Cadillac Racing: Three Laps at Mid-Ohio

Monday Maintenance Tip: Checking Your Transmission Fluid

What is this?

Transmission fluid is a slippery liquid that acts as a lubricant for all of the moving parts inside your transmission. In an automatic transmission, this fluid also serves as a coolant and a viscous fluid that transmits power from the engine to the transmission.

A variety of fluids are used for different transmissions. Automatic transmissions use something called — shockingly — automatic transmission fluid. Manual transmissions use a variety of oils: regular motor oil, heavyweight hypoid gear oil or even automatic transmission fluid in some cases. Your owner's manual will tell you what your transmission calls for.

Should I do this service when it's recommended?

Yes, definitely, regardless of whether you have a manual or an automatic transmission.

Manual: Most manufacturers recommend that manual transmission fluid be changed every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Under heavy-duty use, some manufacturers suggest changing transmission fluid every 15,000 miles.

Automatic: Service intervals for an automatic transmission vary from every 30,000 miles ... to never. The typical service interval is 60,000 to 100,000 miles. Changing it more often does no harm.

Why do I have to do this?

Manual: In a manual transmission, the problem is not so much the fluid degradation, but rather fluid contamination. This contamination occurs over time as the synchronizers, bearings and gears in the transmission wear out. The resulting metal particles then float around in the lubricant. And we all know that oil with microscopic particles of metal in it does not lubricate as well as clean oil. So if these contaminants are not drained out, they will shorten the life of your transmission.

Automatic: Because more heat is generated in an automatic transmission, automatic transmission fluid actually degrades and breaks down with use.

In addition, like in a manual transmission, automatic transmission fluid will also become contaminated with worn bits of the transmission. If these contaminants are not drained out, they will shorten the life of your transmission.

What happens if I don't do this?

If you don't change the transmission fluid on schedule, you'll be lubricating your transmission with metal shavings and other contaminants. This will shorten the transmission's life. The result could be a hefty boat payment to your mechanic. In other words, changing your transmission fluid at the correct interval is a good investment.

Is there any maintenance required between intervals?

Yes. It's important to regularly check the transmission fluid level between service intervals. Letting your car run low on transmission fluid can cause the transmission to shift improperly — or not at all. It also can harm the internal parts of your transmission, which will not be properly lubricated. Unfortunately, you may not hear any noises or have other clues that your transmission is low on fluid, until it's too late. So it's important to get it checked.

Here's how you can check your transmission fluid level:

Manual: Checking the transmission fluid in a manual transmission can be difficult. A few thoughtful manufacturers have included a dipstick, but that's the exception rather than the rule. If you own a car with a manual transmission, we suggest that you ask your mechanic to check the fluid level when your car is up on the lift during an oil change. It takes just a minute.

Automatic: If you own a car with an automatic transmission, your car will have a dipstick for this purpose. Be careful not to make the common mistake of confusing the transmission dipstick with the crankcase dipstick.

For most cars, checking the automatic transmission fluid consists of pulling the transmission dipstick out while the engine is warmed up and running and with the transmission in park. We suggest that you check your owner's manual, however, since some manufacturers may have a different procedure.

Of course, always check your fluid level if you notice a leak of any kind.

Car Talk Tip: Unlike engine oil, transmission oil doesn't burn up. So if you're low on transmission fluid, you almost certainly have a leak.

Courtesy: cartalk.com

GMC "Home" TV Commercial 2012

2013 Buick Verano Turbo rated at 31 mpg highway

The Environmental Protection Agency has released official fuel economy ratings for the 2013 Buick Verano Turbo. When equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a six-speed manual gearbox, the sedan returns 20 miles per gallon in the city and 31 mpg highway. More importantly, it manages 24 mpg combined. Those figures put it at exactly 1 mpg behind the base model's naturally-aspirated 2.4-liter four-cylinder and its six-speed automatic in every category.

The Verano Turbo also ties the larger Regal GS with the same drivetrain in city and combined mileage, but loses out to its bigger brother on the highway front by 1 mpg. That's despite the fact that that the Regal Turbo tips the scales at a full 371 pounds heavier than the forced-induction Verano. The slimmer waistline on the Verano does pay dividends in the 0-60 sprint, however. The smaller Buick clicks off the run in 6.2 seconds, a full half-second quicker than the Regal GS.

Courtesy: autoblog.com

Monday Maintenance Tip: Checking Your Coolant

What is it?

Coolant is the fluid that absorbs heat from the engine and then dissipates it through the radiator. It is also dissipated through the heat exchanger in the passenger compartment when you crank your heat in the winter.

Coolant, which is commonly called antifreeze, is a mixture of ethylene or propylene glycol and water, usually in a 50/50 ratio.

Servicing the coolant involves draining and/or flushing your car's cooling system and then replacing the old coolant with fresh coolant.

Should I do this service when it's recommended?

Yes. Draining out the coolant and refilling the system removes dirt and rust particles that can clog up the cooling system and cause problems in winter and summer.

Why do I have to do this?

Because it is operating in a hot, hostile environment, coolant will break down over time. Most importantly, the coolant's rust inhibitors get used up, leaving the small cooling passages in your engine and radiator vulnerable to corrosion. Even with these rust inhibitors, some corrosion will inevitably take place, contaminating the coolant with debris.

What happens if I don't do this?

If the rust inhibitors stop working, the cooling system will rust from the inside out. The biggest source of rust in a car's cooling system is the engine block.

In time, these bits of rust will also clog the tiny passages within the radiator and heater, causing your engine to overheat. When an engine overheats, the result is a bonus yacht payment to your mechanic that someone else should be making.

Is there any maintenance required between intervals?

Check your coolant level periodically. Your owner's manual will have a recommended interval in which to check the coolant level.

If you check your coolant level when the engine is cold, the coolant should be at or above the "minimum" or "fill" line on the transparent refill container. If you check your coolant level when the engine is hot, the coolant should be at or just below the "max" line.

Disappearance of coolant could be caused by either an external or internal leak, the latter being more expensive. Either one should be addressed quickly, since running low or out of coolant can lead to catastrophic engine failure and many boat payments to your mechanic.

If you live where the temperature dips below freezing, we suggest that you ask your mechanic to check the concentration of the coolant. Coolant that's diluted or weak can freeze when the temperature drops below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

Check your owner's manual to see if your car uses "long-life" coolant. For the first 100,000 miles, it is necessary to check the coolant level simply to be sure you're not leaking or burning coolant.

Car Talk Tip: Antifreeze has a sweet aroma and taste, which pets find particularly appealing. As little as a half teaspoon of the stuff can kill an average-size cat, and eight ounces will do in a 75-pound dog. There's no substance that you can add to antifreeze to make it less appealing to animals, but antifreeze made with propylene glycol instead of the usual ethylene glycol is about a third as toxic. Propylene glycol is sold under the brand names Sierra, Prestone Low Tox and Texaco PG.

Courtesy: CarTalk.com

Experience the New GMC Owner Center

Cadillac ATS vs The World | Monaco | The Challenge

Visit our Facebook Coupon tab and "LIKE" us for great savings!

"LIKE" our Facebook page to receive 10% off your next parts OR service visit.

Click here to start saving!

Cadillac ATS vs The World

Monday Maintenance Tip: Checking Your Drive Belts

What is this?

This is the inspection or replacement of the belt(s) in your engine compartment.

Every car has a water pump, a power-steering pump and various accessories — all of which are powered by rubber drive belts. On older cars, each of these components is driven by its own belt. On most modern cars, all of these components are driven by one belt, called a serpentine belt.

Should I do this service when it's recommended?

Definitely.

Why do I have to do this?

Belts in your car don't last forever. They wear out from use and eventually crack and decay from ozone that's in the air.

What happens if I don't do this?

If your car has individual belts and one of them breaks, then you'll lose the function of whatever part that belt was powering, such as the alternator, power-steering pump or water pump. If the serpentine belt breaks, all of these parts will stop functioning. Engine damage may result from overheating.

Is there any maintenance required between intervals?

Between service intervals, inspect your car's belts for cracks. If you hear a screeching noise coming from under the hood — especially when you start your car on a cold morning or when making a sharp turn — you might have a loose belt.

Car Talk Tip: If you're changing a serpentine belt, draw yourself a diagram of where the belt runs so you'll know exactly how to install the new one.

Courtesy: CarTalk.com

Cadillac ATS vs The World - Trailer

Check out these summer service specials!

Take advantage of the current summer service specials at Harmon's Auto Center! Right now you can receive an oil change, 4-tire rotation and 27-point vehicle inspection for only $29.95! 

Click here to schedule an appointment and print your coupon.

Get behind the scenes with Peyton Manning and the all-new Buick Verano

Check out these fantastic reviews! Great job team!

"I will definitely recommend friends and family consider making the ~85 mile trip, as Harmon's has certainly made a lifetime customer out of me..." - New Harmon's Cadillac Lifetime Customer

Monday Maintenance Tip: Cleaning Your Air Filter

What is it?

The air filter stops airborne contaminants from getting sucked into your car's engine. It's a paper filter that stops debris such as dust, leaves and wayward pelicans before they get inside the engine and do damage.

Should I do this service when it's recommended?

Yes.

Why do I have to do this?

Because, eventually, your air filter will get plugged up.

What happens if I don't do this?

If your air filter gets too dirty or clogged, your engine won't be able to suck enough air into the combustion chambers. The engine will then run rich (i.e., too much gas and not enough air). When this happens, your car will lose power and run roughly. Your Check Engine light also may come on.

If you really neglect the air filter for a long time, your car may stop running altogether. While permanent damage is unlikely, it is possible. If an air filter were sufficiently dirty and damaged, it could allow harmful, abrasive contaminants into the combustion chamber.

Is there any maintenance required between intervals?

If you operate your car under severe duty, such as frequent driving on dirt roads or a lot of stop-and-go driving around town, then you should halve the recommended service intervals for the inspection and replacement of the air filter.

Car Talk Tip: Inspecting and replacing your air filter is an easy task. Almost anyone can do it ... with the possible exception of Jerry Springer. By purchasing the filter directly from an auto parts store, you can sometimes save $10 or more, in addition to the labor costs.

Courtesy: CarTalk.com

Experience Buick | Peyton Manning | Verano

We hope everyone is having a great week so far! As you know, we are constantly striving to better ourselves and provide you with nothing but the best when it comes to customer service. Tell us, what makes for a truly special car buying experience?