Check out these 10 things you may or may not know about GMC!

GMC has manufactured trucks since 1902, and is one of the industry's healthiest brands. Innovation and engineering excellence is built into all GMC vehicles and the brand is evolving to offer more fuel-efficient trucks and crossovers, including the Terrain smaller SUV and Acadia crossover.  GMC is the only manufacturer to offer three full-size hybrid vehicles with the Yukon, Yukon Denali SUVs and the Sierra pickup. The new Sierra Heavy Duty pickups are the most capable and powerful trucks in the market.  

GMC is one of the longest-running brands in the General Motors portfolio, the second-largest of the four GM brands in U.S. sales, and a standard bearer for engineering in pickup trucks, SUVs, and crossover vehicles. Here are 10 little-known facts about GMC:

1. The GMC name turns 100 years old in 2012. In 1912, Rapid Motor Vehicle Company was merged with two others – Reliance and Randolph – to become GMC.
2. On August 1, 1909, a Rapid F-406-B – a GMC predecessor – was the first truck to reach the 14,110-foot summit of Pikes Peak.
3. If GMC was a standalone manufacturer, it would be the tenth-largest automaker in the United States in terms of total vehicle sales from January to November of 2011.
4. GMC built some of the world’s earliest electric vehicles from 1912-1917. These trucks had single-digit model names, each denoting load capacity, from one-half-ton to 12 tons.
5. GMC’s luxury-focused Denali trim level currently outsells the entire product lines of some premium automakers, including Land Rover, Jaguar, and Porsche.
6. GMC was tasked with engineering and production of the 1936 Parade of Progress vans and the 1941 Futurliners, which toured the country carrying mobile road shows.
7. Today, GMC and the Denali trim level are among the fastest-growing nameplates in the U.S. with respective sales increases of 22 percent and 91 percent year over year.
8. During World War II, GMC manufactured approximately 584,000 military vehicles, including the CCKW-353 “Deuce-and-a-Half” and the amphibious “Duck.”
9. The GMC Sierra – the brand’s top selling model – outsold the Toyota Tundra and Nissan Titan combined, with 40,000 sales to spare, through the first 11 months of 2011.
10. From 1973-1978, GMC produced motorhomes in 23- and 26-foot lengths. They appeared in Bill Murray’s 1981 movie, Stripes and the 1996 blockbuster, Twister.

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Great deals on 2011 GMC Sierra, Acadia and Buick Enclave!

Get 0% APR financing for 72 months plus $500 bonus cash on 2011 GMC Sierra, Acadia and Buick Enclave!

Visit http://www.gmc.com/sierra-xm-radio.html for more details or give us a call at (925) 566-7361

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Rules Of Defensive Driving

If you would like to prevent a car accident, read these tips!

In this collection, "70 Rules of Defensive Driving," by RoadTrip America's contributing expert Robert Schaller,  he shares wisdom gained from nearly fifteen years of teaching defensive driving and traffic law in his home state of Arizona.

1. Pay Attention                                                                                                                                                               
2. Don't Trust NOBODY!        

3. Yield Anyway!
4. Don't Speed!

5. Don't Drive Impaired
6. Wear Your Seat Belt!

7. Buy and Use Safety Devices
8. Motorcyclist, Protect Thyself!

9. Don't Run Red!
10. Drive Precisely

11. Chill Out!
12. Look Down the Road!

13. Create Space
14. Drive to Communicate

15. Drive Predictably
16. Always Signal Your Intentions

17. Know Your Blind Spots!
18. Avoid Distractions

19. Avoid Backing Up
20. Beware of Intersections

21. Be A Freeway Pro
22. Know How To Stop

23. Know When To Use Your Headlights
24. Slow Down in Rain or Snow

25. Maintain Your Tires
26. Take Care of Your Vehicle

27. Get Rid of Tailgaters
28. Maintain an Even, Measured Pace

29. Check for Hydroplaning
30. Know How To Recover From A Skid

31. Avoid Head-On Collisions
32. Be A Safe Passer

33. Avoid the Single-Vehicle Collision
34. Deal with Light Glare

35. Never Play Chicken With a Train
36. Beware of Stopped or Slow-Moving Vehicles

37. Practice Animal Avoidance!
38. Don't Prevent Others from Passing

39. Drive Your Van Safely
40. Practice Smart Bicycling

Read more: http://www.roadtripamerica.com/forum/content.php?9-Defensive-Driving-Tips-Drive-Safe-With-Uncle-Bob&s=a236f4732dda39d65691c38e196d7166

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Are Drowsy Drivers As Bad As Drunks?

Interesting article that raises the question of are drowsy drivers as bad as drunk drivers? You may be surprised by the findings.

Drowsy drivers don’t attract as much public opprobrium as drunk or distracted drivers, but maybe they should.

According to a newly released survey of 2,000 motorists by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, 41 percent of drivers admitted they had “fallen asleep or nodded off” while driving at least once. Eleven percent said they had done so within the past year, and four percent said they had fallen asleep behind the wheel in the previous month.

Moreover, one in four motorists admitted they had driven when they were “so sleepy that they had a hard time keeping their eyes open” within the past month.

Given the mushy nature of the data, it’s hard to make accurate estimates of the number of accidents caused by fatigue. After all, haven’t all of us nodded off at one time or another?

Nevertheless, AAA’s researchers concluded that as many as 16 percent of all fatal crashes involved a drowsy motorist – a much higher estimate than earlier studies which attributed less than four percent of fatal accidents to fatigue.

“Researchers have always thought that drowsy driving is under-reported, and that’s what this study found,” said AAA spokesman Dan Bleier. “We know that it’s a problem, and people need to pay attention to it.”

There were some other interesting findings: Men are much more likely than women to drive while fatigued, and motorists between the ages of 16 and 24 also are high risks. Though most of us would associate drowsy driving with long overnight trips, a substantial number of incidents occurred during short trips in the afternoon.

Ten Dead, Five Hurt

If AAA is correct, drowsy motorists are almost as dangerous as drunk drivers, who caused one third of all fatal accidents last year.

“Time For A Rest?”

Indeed, several automakers have tinkered with such devices. For example, Mercedes-Benz has developed a system called Attention Assist, which is standard equipment on E-Class, CL-Class and some S-Class sedans.

If the system’s sensor detects erratic steering, an audible warning sounds and the instrument panel flashes the message: “Time for a rest?”  Such initiatives “give the driver feedback to wake up and get off the road safely,” says Justin McMaull, AAA’s director of state relations.

But somehow, it doesn’t seem plausible to expect exhausted motorists will pull over simply because the dashboard is flashing an icon of a coffee cup. Behaviorists might argue that motorists won’t change their behavior unless they can be punished for it.

That approach is getting a test in New Jersey, which passed a law banning drowsy driving in 2003. Jersey motorists involved in a traffic accident are considered to be “knowingly fatigued” if they’ve been awake more than 24 hours. Maximum penalties include a 10-year prison sentence and a $100,000 fine.

But drowsy motorists are harder to identify than drunk drivers. You can’t give a motorist a Breathalyzer test for fatigue, McMaull notes. It’s hard to prove in court, which may be why no other state has followed New Jersey’s lead.

Still, McMaull says the law isn’t useless. “The idea is to send a message to motorists,” he says. “And prosecutors can use it as a legal tool after a serious crash.”

Is the problem getting worse? It isn’t clear. This is AAA’s first survey of drowsy drivers -- perhaps subsequent studies will reveal a trend.

In the meantime, motorists should use some common sense:

1.    If you’re on a long trip, pull over for a break every couple of hours.
2.    Have some coffee; it will perk you up for awhile.
3.    A companion in the car can keep you awake and share driving chores.
4.    Break up long trips with an overnight motel stop. Don’t attempt an all-night drive.
5.    Stay away from alcohol. A fatigued motorist on booze is double trouble.

Read more: http://autos.aol.com/article/drowsy-driving-worse-than-drunk/

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Trick or Treat on October 31st at the Sunvalley Shopping Center

There will be trick or treating on Monday, October 31st from 5pm to 7pm at the Sunvalley Shopping Center. Free trick or treat bags will be provided by the events sponsor, State Farm.  These bags can be picked up at Guest Services and at select children's stores in the mall. Have fun and Happy Halloween!

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Your Pet Passenger

 

Keep your pet safe while driving, not only for your animal’s health and well-being, but for your wallet’s sake as well!

States Cracking Down On Dogs Behind The Wheel

If it's any indication of the danger free-roaming pets face in a vehicle, New Hampshire, the country's only state that does not have a mandatory seat belt law, actually requires dogs to buckle up.

Live free or die, goes the state's motto, but Spike and Spot don't have that liberty. And with due reason. Seven other states, Connecticut, California, Massachusetts, Nevada, Washington, Oregon and Rhode Island require owners to kennel or tether animals because of the severe danger the sudden stops and potential collisions pose to pets. An unrestrained dog can land you with a ticket between $50 and $200.

Animal lovers would almost always rather take their pet with them to run errands or on a road trip than leave them at home or at a pet motel. But for all that love for canines, most drivers have seen "dog people" take things too far, driving with their dogs in their laps or lying around their shoulders like a neck pillow and, yes, sometimes at the wheel.
And it's a double dose of danger: for the distracted driver and the unrestrained animal.

Find out more here: http://autos.aol.com/photos/driving-doggie-style-the-best-vehicles-for-pets/

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How To Find Your Car Owner's Manual Online

Really neat article. Especially if your car is older and you no longer have the manual.

Although the promised "paperless society" may never come to pass, today's savvy consumers know the convenience of downloading large documents and foregoing the bulky paper version. Automakers realize this as well, and almost all of them have made the voluminous owner's manuals for their vehicles available on their Web sites' "Owner's" area. Most (though not all) online downloads are free, whereas buying the paper version costs anywhere from $10-$30 or more.

While owner's manuals don't make exciting reading, they are packed with valuable instructions, information and warnings that you've probably never read. Perhaps your manual is buried in a long-forgotten pile of papers. Maybe you've purchased a used car without the manual. Or maybe you want to read the details on a car before you actually buy it. Either way, we've made it easy for you to find a car owner's manual without any digging. And accessing a manual online — or storing it on your computer — means convenient answers when you're not in the car.

Follow the link to find your car’s manual today! http://www.edmunds.com/how-to/how-to-find-your-car-owners-manual-online.html

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10 Car Myths Debunked

Myth 1: Red cars get more speeding tickets.

Debunked: While they're radiant and retina-shocking, red cars are not more likely to get a speeding ticket, according to the Insurance Information Institute and Insurance Trade Association. This myth is based on an optical illusion: a red car looks as if it is going faster than it is because red is an aggressive color. But a radar gun is color-blind. The only way to avoid a speeding ticket is not to speed. If you have no self-control (we don't either), here are a couple of nifty tips to avoid being nailed by Smokey on your next trip: (1) Travel in a pack of cars to avoid being singled out — let a rabbit speed ahead of you and get the ticket instead; (2) Stay in the right lane whenever possible, because many officers look to the fast lane for speeders.

Myth 2: Driving with the windows open to stay cool saves gas.

Debunked: According to Ford's Driving Skills for Life Web site, the power-robbing effect of air-conditioning compressors is less hurtful than the aerodynamic drag created by speeding down the road with the windows open, especially at highway speeds. Running the air conditioner will sacrifice a few ponies, but the turbulence caused by open windows will require more horsepower, and thus cause the vehicle to consume more fuel to maintain a steady speed. Ford's Web site recommends using the recirculation feature because it is more efficient to cool already cool air from the cabin than outside air. Another nifty tip is to run the vent/fan setting once the cabin cools down.

Myth 3: Letting an engine idle saves fuel.

Debunked: This one may have rung true when carburetors ruled the roost, but not now that fuel injection is the norm. Start-up in most modern vehicles is lean and efficient, and the longer the interval between shutdown and start-up, the greater the fuel savings. Engine-off strategies are prevalent in hybrids for a reason: they improve mileage. Even the all-gasoline 2012 Maserati Quattroportewill be using start-stop technology to improve its fuel efficiency.

Myth 4: Hybrid batteries won’t last.

Debunked: Doubters were quick to question the longevity of hybrid battery cells and cite their substantial replacement cost to scare people away from these green machines. Check the warranty card. Manufacturers are offering warranties that start at 80,000 miles and go up from there. Furthermore, the federal government tested battery packs up to 160,000 miles and experienced no issues. Hybrid taxicabs have reported 200,000-plus miles without the need for a battery replacement.

Myth 5: Engine warm-up is important to longevity.

Debunked: There is no need to sit in the garage or driveway and let your engine warm to normal operating temperature before venturing on your way. Sure, a short warm-up period is smart — about as long as it takes to secure your seat belt, check your mirrors and adjust the stereo — then put it in gear and go. The idea is to warm up the engine on the road by driving conservatively until the temperature dial is in the normal range; then you can lean on the throttle as needed.

 

Read the rest: http://editorial.autos.msn.com/listarticle.aspx?cp-documentid=1155168

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GM Creates The First Front Center Air Bag

Great news for anyone looking for more safety features.

General Motors has just announced its latest safety innovation — the industry’s first front center air bag. This inflatable restraint is designed to protect passengers in the event of a far-side impact.

Available on the 2013 Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia, and Chevrolet Traverse crossovers, the airbag will deploy to the right of the driver’s side and provide restraint during passenger-side crashes when the driver is the only front occupant. This airbag will also act as an energy absorbing cushion between driver and front passenger in both driver- and passenger-side crashes.

“The front center air bag is not required by federal regulation, and no other air bag in passenger vehicles today offers the type of restraint and cushioning this air bag is designed to provide for front occupants,” said Scott Thomas, senior staff engineer in GM’s advanced restraint systems.

This type of airbag has been underdevelopment for three years and employed the help of GM’s technology supplier Takata. The restraint has been designed to work in a variety of crashes and occupant positions, and it’s also useful for a range of occupant sizes.

“While no restraint technology can address all body regions or all potential injuries, the front center air bag is designed to work with the other air bags and safety belts in the vehicles to collectively deliver an even more comprehensive occupant restraint system,” said Gay Kent, GM executive director of Vehicle Safety and Crashworthiness. “This technology is a further demonstration of GM’s above-and-beyond commitment to provide continuous occupant protection before, during and after a crash.”

Read more: http://www.chevroletinthenews.com/gm-creates-the-first-front-center-air-bag/#more-2030

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Is Rustproofing Your Car Worth It?

Is rustproofing your car worth it? In short, yes!

Rust is a car’s natural enemy. More than just a discoloration of metal, rust is the corrosive result of a chemical reaction between oxygen and iron. Though rust technically corrodes just the surface of iron or an iron-based alloy (such as steel), fresh iron is exposed during this process of corrosion, which in turn can become “infected” with rust. Given enough time, this cycle will repeat over and over to the point when the rust completely disintegrates the metal.
Put simply: Rusted metal is not as structurally strong as rust-free metal. Since most cars are made of metal (especially steel) we can rightfully guess that a car with a rust problem is not as structurally sound and, therefore, more dangerous than a rust-free car. Rust isn’t much of a problem for those who live in dry, arid climates. However, cars constantly exposed to wet weather, humidity and corrosive road salts are more likely to suffer from potentially disastrous rust problems.
To combat vehicle rust, many manufacturers use a variety of rust-proofing techniques to keep rust at bay. Often, rust proofing measures will include the use of galvanized steel (steel that is coated in rust-unfriendly zinc) and PVC-based undercoatings. Paint itself is also considered a rust proofing measure, as it acts like a protective barrier against the elements. Some aftermarket rust-proofing treatments -- including wax-based surface treatments -- are also available.

RUST PROOFING ON AM

Though there is no way to completely eliminate the threat of rust, rust proofing is the best way to extend the life of a vehicle and all its components. As we mentioned earlier, rust will structurally weaken any piece of metal it has infected, so rusty car parts are often dangerous car parts. Rust proofing helps ensure that our vehicles won’t suddenly disintegrate as we drive down the freeway.

RUST PROOFING FACT

Sometimes, the best way to rust proof a car is to keep it clean. Waxing your car does more than just make it look good; a good wax job will serve as an extra layer of protection between the sheet metal and oxidizing elements like oxygen, salt and water. For those who live in snowy climates, not tracking massive amounts of snow (which will melt and form pools of water in a vehicle’s crevices) into the car is a good way to prevent rust build-up. Though it’s tough to do in the winter, keeping a car’s undercarriage free of road salts will also extend the life of any factory-engineered rust-proofing methods. A quick rinse of the undercarriage can do a lot of good.

Read more: http://www.askmen.com/cars/keywords/rust-proofing.html

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Not sure if you should buy or lease?

We can help with that! Follow the link http://www.buygmdirect.com/LeasevsFinance take a 10 question quiz and it will help you with your decision.  If you have more questions  about Leasing vs Buying a car give us a call at  (925) 566-7361.

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Paint-Care Fact and Fiction

Do you think you can tell myth from reality when it comes to your vehicle’s care?  Check out these myths and facts from Motortrend and test your know how!

With so much misinformation out there surrounding car care, it's no wonder people get confused about what's truth and what's fiction. Paint care is definitely one area that can raise a lot of questions. To sort the myths from the reality, we talked to Mike Pennington, director of training for Meguiar's. Active with detailing professionals, show-car owners, and amateur enthusiasts, Pennington conducts regular paint-care classes and seminars and acts as technical consultant for many auto manufacturers and their dealerships-including BMW, Lexus, Nissan, Infiniti, and DaimlerChrysler-as well as such automotive paint manufacturers as DuPont, PPG, and BASF. Here's his insight into the paint-care quagmire.

Myth: A wax made of 100-percent carnauba is superior to those using lesser amounts.

Reality: Carnauba wax has been a favorite among car enthusiasts for years, but don't believe that any wax is made of 100-percent carnauba. As the hardest natural wax known, carnauba is much too hard to apply directly to automotive paint. It comes in bricks that must be melted and added to a company's formulation. If a paint protectant advertises "pure carnauba," it means the part of the formula that is carnauba is pure, not that it's 100-percent carnauba. According to Pennington, today's synthetic polymer technology actually provides better protection than carnauba.

Myth: Avoid a silicone-based wax. If used, the vehicle can't be repainted.

Reality: It's true that silicones are a bane of the auto painter. For instance, if particles of silicone are on the sheetmetal when it's painted, they can keep the paint from adhering to the surface, causing defects known as fisheye. That's why some professional cleaners and polishes intended for shop use are formulated without silicone. However, once paint is on the car, silicone is no longer an issue. In fact, virtually every wax on the market uses some kind of silicone in its formula because it enhances the product's ease of application, gloss, and durability. If repainting is necessary, a body shop can easily take off the wax as part of its normal preparation.

Myth: You can assume that a finish that looks glossy is in good shape.

Reality: There are different degrees of glossiness, and a paint can dull so gradually you may not realize it's happening. For this reason, don't rely just on reflectivity to judge your paint's condition. Use your sense of touch, as well. Place your clean, dry hand flat against the paint and slowly rub it along the surface. Feel with both palm and fingertips. A well-maintained finish should feel smooth as glass. Any roughness could be due to oxidation, tree sap mist, or adhered grit, all of which degrade a paint's gloss to some degree.

Read all the myths and facts here:http://www.motortrend.com/womt/112_0004_paint_myths_and_reality/viewall.html#ixzz1Xq9mnl9H

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The 2012 Verano Starting At $23,470

The 2012 Verano pricing starts at $23,470.

Standard equipment for the Verano includes 18-inch wheels, fog lights, a touch-screen audio system, 10 airbags, remote start, plus Bluetooth and USB connectivity. The Convenience package adds a power, heated driver’s seat and rear parking sensors. The Leather package builds on that with keyless entry and push-button start, a heated steering wheel, a Bose sound system, and leather upholstery. All models use a 2.4-liter inline-four engine rated for 180 hp and 171 lb-ft of torque, and a six-speed automatic transmission.

The Verano is set to become the smallest current Buick model. Based on a Buick sedan that has been sold in China for some time, the Verano is intended to draw younger customers to the Buick brand. Even though it’s a smaller and cheaper Buick, the Verano won’t skimp on style or comfort. The taut exterior looks like a scaled-down Buick Regal, while the interior has attractive, soft-touch trims and extensive sound-deadening materials designed to make the Verano’s cabin as quiet as possible.

The 2012 Verano will reach Buick dealerships before the end of 2011.

Read more: http://wot.motortrend.com/2012-buick-verano-priced-from-23470-114841.html#ixzz1XkP3lFhR

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Is texting while driving really worse than drunk driving?

Is texting while driving really worse than drunk driving? That’s the question that  Christopher Neiger from “How Stuff Works” asked. Read more to find out his conclusion. 

Texting, or short message service(SMS), is a quick form of communication that allows users to send 160 characters or less to and from their cell phones and smartphones. A study by the Pew Research group in 2009 and 2010 reported that out of the number of Americans who have cell phones, 58 percent of adults and 66 percent of teens use them to text [source:Motavalli]. With these high percentages of Americans using text messaging every year, many are bringing the habit along with them when they drive. The same Pew study showed that 34 percent of teens who use their phone for texting said they've done it while driving, and 47 percent of adults who texted said they had done it while driving, too [source: Motavalli].

In 2008, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that almost 6,000 fatalities and over half of a million injuries were due to accidents caused by drivers who were distracted [source: Motavalli]. The study wasn't focused on texting, but it does show the seriousness of driving while distracted. Like many other driving distractions, texting involves a certain amount of mental attention as well as physical application which may be why 28 states have banned drivers from texting while operating a vehicle [source: Motavalli].

But is there really proof that texting while driving is more dangerous than drunk driving? Even though research is just now being done to measure the effects of texting while driving, some in the automotive industry and others in research circles say that texting is definitely more dangerous than drunk driving. Mainly because taking a driver's eyes off the road significantly cuts down on his or her ability to react to changes.

In 2009, Car and Driver conducted a driving test with their editor-in-chief and an intern to prove or disprove that texting while driving was more dangerous than drunk driving. The first step of their experiment was to test and measure the reaction times of both drivers while driving sober with no distractions, and then while reading and sending text messages on their cell phones. A light mounted to the front windshield simulated a car braking in front of them [source:Austin].

As they read and sent text messages, their response time was measured based on the time it took between when the brake light came on and when the driver applied the brakes at both 35 miles per hour (56.3 kilometers per hour) and at 70 miles per hour (112.7 kilometers per hour) [source: Chang]. Both drivers had a longer response time while reading and sending the text messages when compared to driving without any distractions. After the initial test, both drivers then consumed alcohol and reached the legal driving limit for intoxication in their state. After running the same test again while driving drunk, response times for both drivers were better when the driver was drunk, compared to when they were reading or sending text messages while sober. Car and Driver writers mentioned that the test was performed on a closed airport runway, with no road signs and no turns. Although this test was performed on a closed course, slow response times due to texting could result in serious consequences in real-world driving situations.

Another test conducted by the Transport Research Laboratory in London took it a step further. It found that drivers who texted had slower response times, were more likely to drift in and out of lanes and even drove worse than those who were driving while high on marijuana [source: Nugent]. The study found that reaction times for those who texted while driving were 35 percent worse than when they drove without any distractions at all. When driving while intoxicated, the reaction time was only 12 percent worse than when the driver was sober and driving without any texting distractions [source: Nugent]. The researchers also found that there was a significant decrease in ability to maintain a safe driving distance between vehicles while texting and steering control dropped by 91 percent compared to driving without distraction [source: Nugent]. One of the study's commissioners eventually concluded that texting while driving is one of the most dangerous things a driver could do while behind the wheel of a car.

Read the full article: http://auto.howstuffworks.com/texting-while-driving-worse-than-drunk-driving.htm

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Labor Day Weekend!

Labor Day is this weekend! Are you planning a road trip? Remember to plan ahead for one of the busiest highway holidays:

Getting Your Car in Shape

The last thing you want on Labor Day is a car that breaks on the road. A routine check of the engine, radiator and fluids will go a long way. Tires should be well inflated and wiper fluid should be replenished. Also, check that the steering wheel and brakes work properly. A car emergency kit should include, at a minimum, jumper wires, a tire gauge, a flashlight, a tool kit with wrenches and screwdrivers, duct tape, rags and an emergency stop sign. Add a first-aid kit, a bottle of water, a blanket and some energy bars in case something happens and you're stranded for some time.

Staying Safe

There are two major reasons for accidents on highways: losing concentration while driving and ignoring the risk of big trucks. If you are tired, had a drink or feel sick, either give the wheel to somebody else or postpone the driving. This is especially important coming back home on Labor Day, as many spend the day drinking and having fun, and chances are people are tired and moody. Monitor yourself and learn your limits, so you can head to a rest stop if you start feeling dizzy, confused or sleepy. Big trucks are especially dangerous if you cut in front of them quickly and unexpectedly, as trucks cannot brake fast enough to avoid a collision if things get tight. Also, trucks drivers have lots of blind spots, where they are unable to see you and thus avoid you. As a general rule, if you can't see the truck's mirror, the driver can't see you either.

Avoiding the Madness

The most important thing you can do is leave early. Take on the highways early Saturday morning or before rush hour on Friday. If you're driving on Labor Day, follow the same rules. Most people will brave their return home in the early evening or late afternoon. Try getting to the highways before 4 p.m. or after 10 p.m. and you should be in much better shape. Another important thing you can do to prepare for Labor Day driving is to plan your route well. Look for alternate routes, program your GPS or use a map to get you where you need to go as fast and efficiently as possible. You also can check online to see if the road you're planning to take is undergoing repairs or has scheduled lane changes, so you can search for alternatives or plan for additional driving time.

Check out the full article here. Where will you be headed?

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GM’s Humanoid Robot At The International Space Station

Last week, GM’s humanoid robot, Robonaut 2 (R2), was brought to life aboard the International Space Station.

R2 was jointly developed by scientists and engineers from General Motors and NASA. GM was eager to see how this robot would make GM’s plants around the world safer. R2’s hands feature extraordinary dexterity and sensitivity, making it suitable for performing a number of manufacturing-related tasks.

NASA’s use of R2 has helpful GM test it in the real-world. Both teams will share what they’ve learned from R2 to make it even more useful in the future. So far, R2 is performing well in space, and should be a helpful addition to the crew of the International Space Station.

“Everything came alive,” said Nic Radford, Robonaut deputy project manager. “We started getting video out of Robonaut’s eyes. Everything worked exactly as we expected it to. It was a very, very exciting time.”

To read more and see the video visit: http://www.chevroletinthenews.com/gms-humanoid-robot-comes-to-life-in-outer-space/#more-1929

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Buick Customers Can Now Share Car Buying Experience On Facebook

Buick customers can now share their car buying experience on Facebook.

Buick and GMC understand the importance of social networking and have set up online vehicle-shopping experiences that are socially engaging, letting site visitors build, save and share their configured vehicles.

This new type of connectivity enables customers to share with their Facebook friends who can post comments or “like” their customized selections. Both Buick and GMC are among the first automakers to provide customers the opportunity to deepen and personalize the shopping experience.

“We recognize that car buyers are not only looking for product information when shopping for their next car or truck but also use feedback from friends and family to help narrow down their selection,” said John Schwegman, U.S. vice president of GMC Marketing.

A study conducted by Bereford Research that found approximately half of respondents consider information shared on their social networks when making a purchase decision, and that proportion was much higher among users 18-24 with 65 percent doing so. “By offering a connection between our web sites and Facebook, we help our customers get the feedback they want and need to make vehicle purchase decisions,” said Tony DiSalle, U.S. vice president of Buick Marketing.

Read more: http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2011/07/buick-and-gmc-sites-develop-new-facebook-connectivity.html

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The Red-light Camera Quiz

 

Red-light cameras may seem technologically cut-and dry, but that's far from reality. They've saved lives, but they've also stirred up more controversy that most other traffic control devices on the roads to date. See how knowledgeable you are about some of the more picayune and esoteric aspects of this growing debate.

Follow the link to get started: http://auto.howstuffworks.com/red-light-camera-quiz.htm

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Hot Weather Tips For Your Car

Check out these hot weather tips for your car.

The prolonged hot weather we've been having is hard on vehicles, but a little preventive maintenance can go a long way toward ensuring that you don't wind up stranded on the side of the road withering in the heat while waiting for a tow truck.

Cars are complicated beasts and, of course, anything can go wrong at any time. But experts say there are four main problem areas that crop up as the mercury rises: batteries, tires, radiators and air conditioners.

"The extreme heat makes the acid and the fluid inside of them (car batteries) expand, which can cause them to start leaking," says Jim Kilgo, a supervisor at Austin's Groovy Automotive and Groovy Lube. "That causes battery failure in the long run."

Sarah Schimmer, AAA Texas public affairs representative, recommends that drivers keep in mind the age of their vehicles' batteries, especially in hot weather. "If it's older than 2 to 3 years, have it tested and consider having it changed out," she suggests.

Heat raises tire pressure, which is why manufacturers recommend checking their inflation before driving. And worn treads compound the effect. "As you drive during any month of the year, your tires' PSI (pounds per square inch) will raise from 5 to 8 pounds," Kilgo explains. "When it gets hot like this, it's going to raise even more. If you've got weak tires — worn tires — you've got a better chance of having a blowout."

Here's a bonus: Properly inflated tires in good condition (don't forget your spare) will improve your gas mileage.

If you see a car stranded on the shoulder and it's not up on a jack, chances are it has overheated. Your car is already working harder than normal in extreme heat, and low coolant levels can spell disaster for its engine. Belts stretch and hoses deteriorate with age; long periods of extreme heat can accelerate the process.

"A hose failure can cause an engine to blow almost before you can shut it down in this heat," Kilgo says.

"If you've got worn hoses that haven't been replaced in a while, you've got a better chance of a hose rupturing now than you do at any other time."

Read more: http://www.statesman.com/life/hot-weather-car-care-tips-1579503.html

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Top 10 Car Maintenance Tips

10: Check Your Tires

Tires are one of the most overlooked parts of a car. According the Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA), only one out of 10 drivers checks his or her tire pressure correctly, compared with almost seven out of 10 who wash their cars regularly [source: RMA]. But the truth is that an under-inflated, over-inflated, worn down or misaligned tire can be extremely dangerous, particularly in hot summer weather.

9: Change Oil and Oil Filter

Oil is the lifeblood of your car. It keeps hardworking engine parts running clean, smooth and cool. Most owner's manuals suggest that you change your oil and oil filter every 7,500 miles (12,070 kilometers). Oil change specialists suggest every 3,000 miles (4,828 kilometers) or three months. The fact is, most of us do a lot of heavy driving during the summer when an engine is more likely to overheat. So at least check your oil before you head out on that road trip with the family.

8: De-Winterize Your Car

If you haven't driven your car very much during the winter, or if you've had it in storage, then you need to check all of the fluid levels -- coolant, transmission,differential, power steering and brake fluid -- to make sure there weren't any leaks. You'll also want to change the oil, since oil gets thick and collects condensation if it sits in the engine all winter. If you haven't used your battery in a while, you might need a recharge or a replacement. It's also important to really clean the undercarriage of the car after a long winter, especially if you live in a snowy climate.

7: Check Hoses and Belts

The key to summer driving is keeping the engine cool. We're going to talk about the radiator and coolant soon, but first you need to check the hoses and belts. The hoses connected to the radiator help pump coolant to and from the engine block, and the belts run the fan that helps cool the system further [source: CBS News]. If the hoses crack or the belts snap, the radiator will quickly overheat, leaving you stranded.

6: Change the Air Filter

Over the winter, your car's air filter can get clogged with salt and other thick debris. A clogged air filter can really lower your fuel efficiency. Replacing a dirty or clogged air filter can improve gas mileage by as much as 10 percent

5: Replace Your Windshield Wipers

Winter can be tough on windshield wipers. Ice, snow, salt and extreme temperatures make cracks and tears in the rubber that lower the effectiveness of the wipers. If your wipers are leaving visible streaks or take several passes to clear away light rain, they need to be replaced.

4: Check Your Brakes

Brakes need to be replaced when the lining on your brake pad or brake shoe is worn down past the minimum thickness specified by the car manufacturer or state law [source: Yahoo! Autos]. You can have your brake linings checked at any normal service shop or at a brake specialist.

3: Check the Coolant and Radiator

Cars are designed to run hot, but there's a limit to how hot they should run. A combustion engine is most efficient at around 200 degrees Fahrenheit (93 degrees Celsius). But if an engine is allowed to get too hot, moving metal parts can actually start to melt and fuse together, causing a variety of internal problems for your engine -- and, you guessed it, a hefty repair bill.

2: Clean Your Battery

Wintertime is notorious for dead batteries and early morning jumpstarts. But the truth is that hot weather is even tougher on your battery. Summer heat can speed up the chemical reaction inside a battery, causing the battery to be overcharged [source: CBS News]. This can dramatically shorten the lifespan of your battery. Heat can also damage the battery by evaporating internal battery fluid [source: Car Care Council]. The best way to keep your battery running smoothly is to keep it clean.

1: Maintain Your Air Conditioning

The most common cause of a malfunctioning air conditioning unit is a low level of refrigerant. This could be caused buy a leak somewhere in the system. Since modern air conditioning systems are complicated creatures, it's best to have a professional check out the problem.

Tips courtesy of: http://auto.howstuffworks.com/car-driving-safety/accidents-hazardous-conditions/summer-car-maintenance10.htm

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Child Safety Seat Inspection Station Locator

While installing and using child safety seats may appear to be easy enough, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has estimated that close to 3 out of 4 parents do not properly use child restraints ... and if you are one of them, that child safety seat may not protect your child the way it should. Use this locator to find a child safety seat inspection station nearest you. Certified technicians will inspect your child safety seat and show you how to correctly install and use it.

Child Safety Seat Inspection Station Locator

You can filter results by State/Zip Code as well as with Spanish-speaking technicians, and/or having local Child Passenger Safety events.

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Keep Your Car Healthy

It is important to take care of your car and perform routine maintenance on your Buick or GMC. You may think letting an oil change slide or low tire pressure may not matter, but it affects your car's performance. Every month you should check your lights, tire pressure, and refill your wiper fluid. For more car maintenance tips click here!

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Keeping Your New Car Clean

Everyone likes to keep their new Buick or GMC clean, so we thought we'd share some tips! Who knew washing a car could be so complex? We did, so read the tips and keep your new car looking great!

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GMC Summer Event

Stop in today for great rates on GMC's 2011 models! Qualified buyers can receive 0% APR for 60 months and no monthly payments for 90 days on the 2011 Acadia, 2011 Terrain, or the 2011 Yukon. Visit Lehmer's Concord Buick GMC's website for more details, then stop in today! Buyers must take delivery by September 6, 2011.

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Boredom Busters for your Summer Road Trip

Summer vacation also means summer road trips, and for your kids, it can mean hours of boredom. Make the atmosphere in your Buick or GMC a pleasant one with some of these road trip boredom busters!

Family Contest: Try having a family spelling bee or trivia quiz. Have the passenger be the host, and have the kids participate in an educational quiz or spelling bee!

Classic Car Games: 20 Questions and I Spy can seem like tired, old games, but on a six hour road trip, they are great!

Journals: Have your kids write down what they did on each day of the trip. It will be a great way to reflect on family trips as your children get older.

While these are fun ways to keep your kids entertained, sometimes the best entertainment is something you and your family make up! Don't be afraid to get creative, but if you need more ideas, click here for more boredom busters!

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Buick Summer Event

Summer time is a great time to buy a car. Purchase now and receive great deals on the Enclave, Lacrosse, and Regal Turbo! Visit Lehmer's Concord Buick GMC's webpage for more information!

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The 2011 Buick Enclave

Ride in style and comfort with the 2011 Buick Enclave. This luxury crossover SUV gives room for the family, but does not sacrifice in appearance or class. Three rows of seats with lots of leg room gives the whole family a chance to ride in comfort. A mahogany-inlaid steering wheel and leather seating surfaces are simple comforts that any driver can appreciate.

Call Lehmer's Concord Buick GMC today at 925-685-4481 for more information on the 2011 Enclave, or view more photos of the SUV in this slideshow.

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Happy 4th of July!

 

I love to see the starry flag
That floats above my head.
I love to see its waving folds
With stripes of white and red.
“Be brave,” say the red stripes.
“Be pure,” say the white.
“Be true,” say the bright stars.
“And stand for the right.”

Author Unknown

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Don’t Forget Dad!

 

Father’s Day is this Sunday, June 19th.   What was the best advice you ever received from your Father?  Share it with us!  We’d love to hear it.

Or just enjoy some of these pithy quotes about our favorite dads:

"A new father quickly learns that his child invariably comes to the bathroom at precisely the times when he's in there, as if he needed company. The only way for this father to be certain of bathroom privacy is to shave at the gas station." -- Bill Cosby

"A father is always making his baby into a little woman. And when she is a woman he turns her back again." -- Enid Bagnold

"A father is a guy who has snapshots in his wallet where his money used to be." – Unknown

"My father always told me, 'Find a job you love and you'll never have to work a day in your life.' " -- Jim Fox

"A father is a banker provided by nature." -- French Proverb

"My father said, 'Politics asks the question: Is it expedient? Vanity asks: Is it popular? But conscience asks: Is it right?'" -- Dexter Scott King

"When I was a kid, I said to my father one afternoon, 'Daddy, will you take me to the zoo?' He answered, 'If the zoo wants you, let them come and get you.'" -- Jerry Lewis

"Small boy's definition of Father's Day: It's just like Mother's Day only you don't spend so much." – Unknown

"By the time a man realizes that maybe his father was right, he usually has a son who thinks he's wrong." -- Charles Wadsworth

Check out more quotations here. 

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GM Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles now come with free maintenance

 General Motors will now offer two-year, 30,00-mile standard vehicle maintenance package as part of its Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle program. The no-cost maintenance program includes free oil changes whenever the Oil Life Monitor system says one is needed, tire rotations and multi-point inspections. The announcement, which is now in effect, comes in addition to a one-year, 12,000-mile overall warranty, a five-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty and a 172-point inspection. GM will also continue to offer a free trial of OnStar and XM Satellite Radio.

GM sales director Jennifer Costabile says that the move will give customers more for their money, adding that the program "offers our customers an outstanding experience from the moment they drive their Chevrolet, Buick or GMC Certified Pre-Owned vehicle off of the lot." The General hopes that the program will increase the value of the Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle program, while also lowering the total cost of vehicle ownership.

Read more: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/13/gm-certified-pre-owned-vehicles-now-come-with-free-maintenance/

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Lehmer's GMC Explorer Van Superstore

Buy your luxury Explorer Van from us at GUARANTEED* Lowest Prices. Lehmer's will beat any deal on a new GMC Explorer Van or we will give you 110% of the difference.* We make it easy to purchase from us, at YOUR conversion dealer, Lehmer's GMC Superstore.

Check out the available GMC Savana vans from our online inventory. Whether you want an all wheel drive, a hightop, lowtop or even mobility conversion vans. We have 7 or 9 passenger extended conversions available. Lehmer's has a conversion van that will fit your budget and tastes.

We can help pre-qualify you for your NEW GMC Explorer Savanna in the privacy of your home or office.

You can custom order a special luxury conversion to meet your family vehicle needs and tastes. Whether you want a basic page or the top of the line Limited SE, our professional sales staff will help you on the road to your adventure today with our full line of luxury Explorer conversion vans. The best part is, it never costs extra to order your dream van from Lehmer's Conversion Van Superstore.

While you’re shopping and by some amazing way you find a better price on a new Explorer Van advertised for less by another dealer, we will beat that deal or we will refund to you 110% of the difference!*

Nationally advertised low prices found online must be printed out completely with proof of dealers name, VIN number, model and the offer's expiration date clearly visible.

*110% Refund valid on selling price of van only, including shipping and/or handling charges. Guarantee not valid on competitor demos, misprints, prior model years. Van must be identical make and model. You must present the offer on the Explorer Van given to you by the other dealer and allow us 24 to either beat that price or reject the offer.

Call us today! 1-800-377-8615

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Happy Memorial Day!

How are you planning to celebrate/ honor Memorial Day weekend?  Is the holiday a chance to barbeque and hang with friends, or is it a more solemn occasion as you remember a loved one?  Share with us!

But no matter how you choose to spend your weekend, we want you to stay safe.  Here are some tips for grill safety this weekend:

• Keep food covered or refrigerated until ready to be cooked.  Cook meat to 170 degrees Farenheit as a minimum. 
• Cooking (by any method) of meats (particularly red meat and chicken) at very high temperatures until surface charring occurs can cause cancer causing substances (Heterocyclic Amines (HCA)) to form.   To avoid this, use marinades and turn frequently.
• Inspect your grill before you ignite to ensure everything is in working order.
• Don't use a grill indoors including garages, overhangs and canopies.
• When using a grill, you should use a 10-foot perimeter from anything combustible, including your house.
• Do not allow children and pets to play near a grill.
• Only use approved ignition fluids – don't use gasoline to ignite a grill.
• Keep a fire extinguisher, garden hose or bucket of sand nearby to douse a grill fire.

These tips are from: http://bbq.about.com/od/grillinghelp/tp/grillsafety.htm

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Join The GM Preferred Owner Program Today!

The GM Preferred Owner Program is similar to an Airline Rewards Program – it’s our way of thanking customers like you for your loyalty. There’s absolutely no cost to you, and you’ll earn rewards every time you have your vehicle serviced – as well as any time you buy a new or pre-owned vehicle. 
Simply by signing up you will receive a free soft-cloth car wash, free multi-point inspection, and 250 points to be used towards your next vehicle purchase.  Going forward, you will earn a 5% reward for each dollar spent on Parts and Service. Points can be accumulated or used on your next visit. 

Come by today to receive your Preferred Owner Card!

• Receive a free soft-cloth car wash
• Free multi-point inspection
• 250 points to be used towards your next vehicle purchase
• Going forward, you will earn a 5% reward for each dollar spent on Parts and Service
• Points can be accumulated or used on your next visit

Call (925) 566-7364 for more information.

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Top 10 Auto Myths Revealed

The editors of MSN Autos have created a list of the Top 10 most popular auto myths. In the following article they address them.

 

Myth 1: Red cars get more speeding tickets. 

Debunked: While they're radiant and retina-shocking, red cars are not more likely to get a speeding ticket, according to the Insurance Information Institute and Insurance Trade Association. This myth is based on an optical illusion: a red car looks as if it is going faster than it is because red is an aggressive color. But a radar gun is color-blind. The only way to avoid a speeding ticket is not to speed. If you have no self-control (we don't either), here are a couple of nifty tips to avoid being nailed by Smokey on your next trip: (1) Travel in a pack of cars to avoid being singled out — let a rabbit speed ahead of you and get the ticket instead; (2) Stay in the right lane whenever possible, because many officers look to the fast lane for speeders.

Myth 2: Driving with the windows open to stay cool saves gas.

Debunked: According to Ford's Driving Skills for Life Web site, the power-robbing effect of air-conditioning compressors is less hurtful than the aerodynamic drag created by speeding down the road with the windows open, especially at highway speeds. Running the air conditioner will sacrifice a few ponies, but the turbulence caused by open windows will require more horsepower, and thus cause the vehicle to consume more fuel to maintain a steady speed. Ford's Web site recommends using the recirculation feature because it is more efficient to cool already cool air from the cabin than outside air. Another nifty tip is to run the vent/fan setting once the cabin cools down.

Myth 3: Letting an engine idle saves fuel.

Debunked: This one may have rung true when carburetors ruled the roost, but not now that fuel injection is the norm. Start-up in most modern vehicles is lean and efficient, and the longer the interval between shutdown and start-up, the greater the fuel savings. Engine-off strategies are prevalent in hybrids for a reason: they improve mileage. Even the all-gasoline 2012 Maserati Quattroporte will be using start-stop technology to improve its fuel efficiency.

Myth 4: Hybrid batteries won’t last.

Debunked: Doubters were quick to question the longevity of hybrid battery cells and cite their substantial replacement cost to scare people away from these green machines. Check the warranty card. Manufacturers are offering warranties that start at 80,000 miles and go up from there. Furthermore, the federal government tested battery packs up to 160,000 miles and experienced no issues. Hybrid taxicabs have reported 200,000-plus miles without the need for a battery replacement.

Read the full list of myths at: http://editorial.autos.msn.com/listarticle.aspx?cp-documentid=1155168

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The Buick Envision SUV Concept To Be At Auto Shanghai 2011

The latest concept vehicle from Buick, the Envision SUV will be making an appearance at Auto Shanghai 2011.

"The Envision was developed jointly by Shanghai GM and the Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center (PATAC)," said Shi Hong, Director of Buick Marketing at Shanghai GM. "It introduces the development direction for Buick's future SUV products for the market."

According to Ed Welburn, GM Vice President of Global Design, "The Envision has inherited Buick design DNA and taken the Buick global design language to a new height. It makes a significant statement for Buick styling and technology, and will influence upcoming models from the brand."

Read more: http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/18/buick-envision-concept-touches-down-in-shanghai/

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Buick donates 3,000 pairs of socks and shoes to Samaritan's Feet

Last week Buick donated 3,000 pairs of socks and shoes to Samaritan’s Feet, surpassing their original goal of 2,011 pairs. 

Buick executives and dealers, along with Samaritan's Feet, the NCAA^® and the National Association of Basketball Coaches, distributed the foot apparel to kids in need during a four-day community outreach event coinciding with the NCAA Final Four^® games.

"This was an outstanding effort to protect kids' feet and promote an active lifestyle," said Tony DiSalle, U.S. vice president, Buick Marketing. "By working together, Buick, Samaritan's Feet, the NCAA and the coaches of college basketball made a profound difference in scores of young lives."

 

Read more: http://pr-usa.net/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=684517&Itemid=99999999

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Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

 

Check out these fun facts and may the luck of the Irish smile upon ya!

Fun Facts about St. Patrick's Day

St. Patrick’s Day is observed on March 17 because that is the feast day of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. It is believed that he died on March 17 in the year 461 AD. It is also a worldwide celebration of Irish culture and history. St. Patrick’s Day is a national holiday in Ireland, and a provincial holiday in the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador.

The actual color of St. Patrick is blue. Green became associated with St. Patrick's Day during the 19th century. Green, in Irish legends, was worn by fairies and immortals, and also by people to encourage their crops to grow.

St. Patrick did not actually drive snakes out of Ireland; the snakes represent the pagans that he converted to Christianity.

The very first St. Patrick's Day parade was not in Ireland. It was in Boston in 1737.

In Chicago, on St. Patrick's Day, the rivers are dyed green.

In Seattle, there is a ceremony where a green stripe is painted down the roads.

Most Catholics attend mass in the morning and then attend the St. Patrick's Day parade.

Shamrocks are worn on the lapel on this day.

In Ireland on St. Patrick’s Day, people traditionally wear a small bunch of shamrocks on their jackets or caps. Children wear orange, white and green badges, and women and girls wear green ribbons in their hair

Many young people dye their hair green for the special day.

Many people wear green on this holiday to avoid being pinched.

The phrase, "Drowning The Shamrock" is from the custom of floating the shamrock on the top of whiskey before drinking it. The Irish believe that if you keep the custom, then you will have a prosperous year.

Many bars in the United States, and abroad, serve green beer to celebrate St. Patty's Day.

Fun Facts about the Irish

34 million Americans have Irish ancestry, according to the 2003 US Census. That’s almost nine times the population of Ireland, which has 4.1 million people.

Nine of the people who signed our Declaration Of Independence were of Irish origin, and nineteen Presidents of the United States proudly claim Irish heritage -- including our first President, George Washington.

Some American towns have “Irish” names. You could visit: Mount Gay-Shamrock, West Virginia; Shamrock Lakes, Indiana; Shamrock, Oklahoma; Shamrock, Texas; Dublin, California and Dublin, Ohio.

The harp is the symbol of Ireland. The color green is also commonly associated with Ireland, also known as “the Emerald Isle.”

The Irish flag is green, white and orange. The green symbolizes the people of the south, and orange, the people of the north. White represents the peace that brings them together as a nation.

The name “leprechaun” has several origins. It could be from the Irish Gaelic word “leipreachan,” which means “a kind of aqueous sprite.” Or, it could be from “leath bhrogan,” which means “shoemaker.”

Fun Facts about Clovers

According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the highest number of leaves found on a clover is 14.

One estimate suggests that there are about 10,000 regular three-leaf clovers for every lucky four-leaf clover.

Legend says that each leaf of the clover means something: the first is for hope, the second for faith, the third for love and the fourth for luck.

Read more: http://www.whsv.com/seasonal/misc/40129602.html

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Buick’s Gas-Saving Strategy

 

The Energy Department calculates that 17.2 percent of a vehicle’s fuel is consumed when its engine idles in traffic, adding up to billions of gallons burned at stop signs and traffic lights and in urban congestion. Put another way, 69 cents’ worth of a $4 gallon is wasted by idling.

To minimize this inefficiency, automakers are adopting so-called stop-start systems that virtually eliminate idling by shutting off the engine when the car or truck comes to a complete stop, then instantaneously restarting it when the driver’s foot lifts off the brake (on cars with an automatic transmission) or engages the clutch.

General Motors has become the latest company to announce a stop-start feature. Its system, called eAssist, will be a standard feature on 2012 models of the full-size Buick LaCrosse sedan with a 4-cylinder engine; it will be an option on the midsize 2012 Regal.

While hybrid vehicles typically have a stop-start feature built into their gas-electric drive systems, conventionally powered cars and light trucks must be engineered to incorporate the technology into existing powertrains and body structures.

Read more: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/03/13/automobiles/13BUICK.html

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Daylight Savings Time Begins March 13th

Daylight savings time is coming up this weekend.  Don’t forget to set your clocks forward!

Every year, daylight savings time seems to take people by surprise. In the United States, daylight savings time begins on March 13 at 2 a.m. local time except in parts of Arizona and Hawaii. As the popular saying goes, clocks need to "spring forward" to observe the change. In other words, clocks need to be set ahead by one hour when the clock strikes 2 a.m.

Daylight Savings Time Begins on March 13 in the U.S. - Yahoo! News

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Embracing our History

In 1936 Jesse Owens won four gold medals at the Olympics, you could buy a new Oldsmobile for $665 and Erv Lehmer’s used car dealership in Concord, California got their franchise from General Motors to sell Oldsmobiles.  Much has changed in the world since 1936, but the Lehmer family continues to sell GM vehicles in Concord.
In 1938 Lehmer added the GMC truck franchise to his dealership and has been selling GMC models ever since.
Erv’s daughter Carolyn has been around the dealership since she was born. She worked there during the summers when she was still in high school and after college she started full-time. Carolyn says, “I worked in the office, because girls worked in the office in those days. But I became a dealer in 1987.” Today she runs the show at Lehmer’s Concord Buick-GMC along with her husband Russ Anderson and their son Darren.
Russ took a winding path into the car business. When he was 18 years old he joined the navy and became an engine man on submarines. He remembers, “I liked GM just because our submarine diesels were 1,600-horsepower GM diesels that were first built for World War II.” After leaving the sea he came back to California and joined the fire department. He also met his future wife Carolyn at Mel’s Diner (made famous in the movie “American Graffiti”.) He would drive used cars from his father-in-law’s dealership to his firefighter job and he would often sell the car he was driving to an interested customer. Finally the chief told him to choose between firefighting and the car business, and Russ ended up as a salesman at Lehmer’s. After seven years at Lehmer’s Russ became general manager of another GM dealership in nearby Walnut Creek, spending 21 years there before eventually returning to Lehmer’s as general manager.

The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at the dealership is Darren Anderson; representing the next generation of the Lehmer Anderson family to take a leadership role. He acknowledges foreign brands the market share leaders in San Francisco Bay area, but he likes the new products coming from GM today and he’s hopeful about the future. Darren says his customers are returning to GM brands years of loyalty to other brands. “We’re seeing more conquest (sales) this year than we have in several years.”

Carolyn Lehmer Anderson says, “My father believed in American cars. Before the imports really got a foothold in our area he was offered the Honda franchise. He said, ‘I’m not going to sell foreign cars. We’re going to sell American cars.’ So that’s why we’ve stayed with American cars all the time.” She admits selling vehicles from U.S. brands is difficult today in the import-oriented Bay area, but she believes in the vehicles she sells. “Our cars are better than those, the imports,” she says. 

Carolyn has seen a lot of changes over her years in the car business. “Our mechanics used to be the technicians under the hood working on the cars. Now our techs are all computer savvy. Everything is computerized”

Lehmer’s Concord Buick-GMC is proud of its history. Photos depicting its nearly 75 years as a GM dealer hang on the wall above the showroom floor and it’s not unusual to see Erv’s first trade-in, a 1939 Oldsmobile, taking a spot on the showroom floor to emphasize the dealership’s long history and relationship with GM. During a special event last month the dealership had the GMC Granite concept vehicle on the floor, an indication that it’s looking to a future with more groundbreaking products from Buick and GMC.

Read more: http://www.buygmdirect.com/Lehmers-Embraces-History

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Introducing our new Facebook, Twitter, and Blog pages

 

We have a new blog, Twitter, and Facebook page to keep everyone up to date on news and events.  To stay updated, please check out our profiles:

Follow our blog's RSS feed:

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Become a Fan on Facebook by clicking the "Like" button:

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Thanks for checking out our profiles.  We are excited to be able to stay in touch with everyone so easily in the future!

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