All posts by Ozzie

GMC Leads Industry with New Rear Seat Reminder

June 13, 2016GMCOzzie

(This article originally appeared on GMC.com)

Rear Seat Reminder alert. © General Motors.

All-new 2017 GMC Acadia introduces industry-first feature to help busy drivers

DETROIT — Life moves fast. There are a million things on everyone’s mind, and sometimes even the most organized among us need a little help remembering everything. The all-new 2017 GMC Acadia is helping to address this issue with the Rear Seat Reminder, a new, industry-first feature designed to remind drivers to check the back seat as they exit their vehicle under certain circumstances.

Each year in the U.S., about half of the children under age 14 who die of in-vehicle heatstroke do so as a result of being forgotten. Also, items left in the back seat are a target for theft. Nearly 23 percent of larceny in 2014 was from a motor vehicle, according to the FBI.

“Acadia drivers live busy lives with demanding schedules, and the Rear Seat Reminder helps protect the things we care about most,” said Tricia Morrow, GM global safety strategy engineer. “Whether it’s your lunch, laptop, pet or most importantly, your child, it’s easier than it seems to forget what’s in the back seat when moving between life’s events. With this new feature, we are leading the charge to address this ongoing problem.”

The Rear Seat Reminder works by monitoring the Acadia’s rear doors. The feature is intended to activate when either rear door is opened and closed within 10 minutes before the vehicle is started, or if they are opened and closed while the vehicle is running. Under these circumstances, the next time the vehicle is turned off after a door activation, the Acadia is designed to sound five audible chimes and display a message in the driver information center that reads, “Rear Seat Reminder / Look in Rear Seat.”

Read the entire article on GMC.com!

How Bad of a Driver Are You?

June 12, 2016GMCbad drivers, worst drivers in americaOzzie

How long has it been since you’ve been tested on your driving knowledge? For some of you, it might depend on the last time you took defensive driving. For others, you may have been 16 since the last time you saw a written driver’s exam.

Did you know that for the past five years, GMAC has surveyed 5,000 people across the country with a simple 20 test question test taken from various state driving tests? Probably not, but the test scores will probably make you want to find out more about it. Apparently, the Northeast had the lowest average test scores at 74.5 percent (Test-takers need to score at least 70 percent on the test to pass.). The South had the highest failure rate at 41 percent…that’s you Ft. Worth and Dallas. The Midwest had the highest average test scores at 79 percent and the lowest failure rates at 15 percent. Way to go Kansas!

If the numbers from GMAC’s survey are accurate for the entire U.S. population, roughly 41 million licensed Americans on the road today would not pass a written drivers test exam. That’s 41 million drivers who may not know what a double yellow line means, or worse, what an unprotected left means. Don’t you feel safe on the road now?

Since we’re lumped into the “worst” drivers category, let’s see if we can prove them wrong. Have a quick crack at the test below.

NATIONAL DRIVER’S TEST

Do you know what the weakest link in your Car is?

June 6, 2016Maintenance and Service, Parts and AccessoriesOzzie

That’s right, your car could have weak link. Now, you may not know anything about your new car other than the color and how to position the mirrors, so you’ll just have to believe me when I tell you that…

YOUR TIMING BELT IS THE WEAKEST LINK IN YOUR ENGINE!

Too Extreme? Well, maybe if your engine has less than 100,000 miles on it. However, the mere mention of its name should fill you with spine tingling fear. Why? A worn timing belt will quickly deteriorate into a BROKEN timing belt which could then result in catastrophic engine damage. Of course, if you don’t mind being a full time pedestrian, then you can keep thinking that belts are just for holding your pants up and continue on to the next post.

Timing belt service is not inexpensive and trying to save money going for the lowest bidder can be a prelude to disaster. I suggest using top quality parts, done by a mechanic that knows your type of vehicle. They will know if there are common faults that prevent the service from lasting through another full service cycle. Hmmmm, I wonder where you can find such a mechanic (Hint: Freeman Grapevine).

SPOILER ALERT! – Typically, thousands upon thousands of dollars in damage is done when a timing belt fails. Many times the engine is destroyed.

Don’t believe me? Watch this!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DGh-3fvK61I

Even though your car is new, remember, the weakest link is the one that takes the rest with it. That’s just one of the reasons you follow the manufacturers recommended mileage intervals for timing belt replacement, so an experienced mechanic can inspect the timing components to ensure they ALL can keep on driving with confidence.

How much does Timing belt service cost? While the cost for timing belt service has a wide range depending on model and components required. The basic timing belt service on most four cylinder vehicles starts at around $300.00.

Be sure to read your owner’s manual for your actual mileage to have your timing belt looked at.

Does anyone have any timing belt horror stories?

Keep your dogs safe in your car during travel

June 3, 2016Safe Driving, Tips and HIntsOzzie

Traveling with your pets can be easy and enjoyable, but it can also be dangerous for you and them without the proper restraints. You wouldn’t drive around without using your safety belt and the same should hold true for your dogs while traveling. Unrestrained pets cause more than 30,000 accidents annually, according to the American Automobile Association (AAA), and the Travel Industry Association of America says 29 million Americans have traveled with a pet on a trip of 50 miles or more in the past five years. With those kinds of numbers, it’s important to remember that pets have special needs on the road.

Of course, the best place you can keep them is in a secured crate, but there are many harnesses on the market that can secure your best friend in the back using your backseat seat belt.

One of the biggest hazards, not only to pets but also to their owners and even other drivers, is the motorist who insists on keeping Fluffy on their lap, which makes it impossible for drivers to respond immediately to road emergencies. The animal can also be hit by passing cars if it bolts out of the vehicle after a crash.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ysI1FVnKuFg

It also goes without saying that you should never leave an animal alone in your car unattended. We’ve all heard countless stories about how hot your vehicle can get and how quickly it can get there. Having a dog succumb to heat exposure isn’t just dumb, it’s cruel. So think first before you leave Fido in the car, even if your errand takes just “a second”.

Questions? Comments? Leave them here!

2017 GMC Sierra Denali 2500HD: Bold Hood Design Hints at What Lies Beneath

June 1, 2016GMCOzzie

(This article originally appeared on GMC.com)

2017 GMC Sierra Denali 2500 HD. © General Motors.

DETROIT – GMC today released the first photos of the 2017 Sierra Denali 2500HD featuring a functional hood scoop design hinting at what is beneath its bold new appearance.

In May 2016, Sierra Denali HDs accounted for 48 percent of HD retail sales.

Additional details and information on the new model will be released in the coming months.

Read the entire article on GMC.com!

Do You Know The Real Use Of The Left Lane?

May 29, 2016Safe Driving, Tips and HIntsOzzie

How long has it been since you taken a driving course? Unless you’ve had to take some sort of defensive driving class for a traffic violation, then I’m guessing it’s probably been awhile. I swear, 98 percent of the population thinks that they are an amazing driver. Then you have the other two percent who will willingly admit they are terrible drivers and even go on shows like America’s Worst Drivers. Pretty entertaining show by the way if you haven’t seen it.

Imagine a world where everyone remembers every single thing they learned from driver’s ed and applied it to their everyday driving. Pretty sure we’d see a significant drop in cases of road rage. I’m a realistic person, though, and I know that’ll never happen. But in the meantime, I can share some mini refresher courses on the areas I think need the most attention — starting with the rules of the left lane.

Left Lane Rules

When it comes to the left lane, there are two things people seem to forget: how to use the left lane and how to pass someone in the left lane.

Usage of the Left Lane
Driver’s ed taught us that the left land is for faster-moving traffic and passing. You probably don’t belong in the left lane if one or all of the following three things occurs: someone is dangerous tailgating you, one or more cars is weaving in and out of traffic in the other lanes just to land themselves directly in front of you or you see the person behind you making hand gestures or yelling at you. Regardless of how fast these other drivers may be going, the proper thing to do is yield to faster moving traffic in the left lane. Failure to do so results in impeding the flow of traffic, which is not only dangerous, it’s also illegal in most jurisdictions.

Left-Lane Passing
Have you ever been stuck on a four-lane highway or road because two vehicles are driving at the exact same speed? This is one of my biggest pet peeves and is usually a result of the “cruise control pass”. Here’s how this happens… John Doe decides that he wants to pass Joe Black so he pulls into the left lane to do so. However, John Doe is attempting to pass Joe Black with his cruise control set at 65 mph. Since Joe Black is only going 62 mph, it takes forever for this pass to be complete which is only two mph faster than the car he is attempting to pass. Remember, when passing someone in the left lane, you must speed up sufficiently enough to get past the other guy quickly.

So there you have it, the rules of the left lane. Know them, learn them, live them. Stay tuned for more lessons in driving.

News Wire: GMC Introduces Yukon SLT Premium Edition

May 26, 2016GMCOzzie

(This article originally appeared on GMC.com)

2016 GMC Yukon SLT Premium Edition. © General Motors.

Unique chrome accents, 22-inch wheels offer upscale style

ELKHART LAKE, Wis. – GMC today announced the 2016 Yukon SLT Premium Edition – a chrome-trimmed special model offering a premium, personalized appearance on SLT models.

It goes on sale this summer, offered on Yukon and Yukon XL models. Features include:

Unique design 22-inch chrome-wheels
Unique design chrome grille
Bright chrome body-side moldings
Polished exhaust tip

“The new Yukon SLT Premium Edition adds distinction and personalized style to the already well-appointed Yukon SLT model,” said Stu Pierce, senior marketing manager, GMC Trucks & Full-size SUVs. “For discerning customers seeking uncompromising capability and unparalleled refinement in a full-size SUV, Yukon SLT Premium Edition delivers with the latest in technologies, amenities and a unique and premium style.”

Yukon and Yukon XL SLT models are powered by an advanced 5.3L V-8 engine that offers the segment’s best V-8 fuel economy: an EPA-estimated 23 highway mpg (2WD models).

Additional standard and available features on SLT models include:

Fold-flat second- and third-row seats that enhance cargo capability and convenience, including an available power-folding feature
Power rear liftgate with multiple programmable height settings and hands-free operation
Wireless phone charging
Standard 8-inch-diagonal color touch-screen radio with enhanced IntelliLink and available navigation
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto phone projection compatibility
Keyless Open and Start
8,500-lb. max trailering for Yukon and 8,300-lb. max trailering for Yukon XL (2WD models)

The Yukon lineup also incorporates technologies that help protect the driver and passengers before, during and after a collision. They include a forward radar system and the segment’s only Front Center Air Bag (models with front bucket seats), which deploys from the inboard side of the driver’s seat and inflates between the driver and front passenger, providing added protection for both front occupants in side impacts.

Phone projection technology

Through Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capability, Yukon’s IntelliLink infotainment system provides simple and intuitive use of smartphones in the vehicle. It integrates certain phone functions onto the 8-inch-diagonal color touch screen, allowing you to call up music, navigation apps and more.

Read the entire article at GMC.com!

News Wire: GMC Offers Trailering Enhancements for 2016 Sierra

May 23, 2016GMCOzzie

(This article originally appeared on GMC.com)

GMC Accessories offers a trailering camera system, produced by Echomaster, for 2014-2016 model year Sierras. The system is fully integrated with the Sierra infotainment system, providing images from up to four cameras on the center display. © General Motors.

Factory- and dealer-installed features add convenience, confidence to towing duties

DETROIT – New available features including a gooseneck/fifth-wheel trailering prep package and a trailering camera system complement built-in technologies to help make trailering with the 2016 GMC Sierra easier and more comfortable than ever.

The gooseneck/fifth-wheel trailering prep package is offered on Sierra HD models and makes them ready to tow larger trailers right from the factory, while the trailering camera system is available for Sierra 1500 and HD models. It was developed with Echomaster to help reduce blind spots on the highway and when reversing with a trailer.

“GMC’s reputation was forged on the ability to perform heavy work with a premium touch, and these new options do more to make that work comfortable and confident,” said Sierra Marketing Manager Stuart Pierce. “With a 112-year legacy of professional-grade trucks behind them, the entire Sierra lineup handles the toughest tasks with the utmost ease.”

Gooseneck/fifth-wheel trailering prep package

The new gooseneck/fifth-wheel trailering prep package is a $350 option featuring a frame-mounted hitch platform and tray that accommodates a gooseneck ball hitch or fifth-wheel hitch mounting brackets.

The platform is concealed beneath the truck’s bed floor and when the hitch isn’t needed, it can be removed for full use of the bed’s cargo capacity. Caps for the openings in the floor are included and a bed-mounted seven-way trailer wiring connection comes with the prep package.

Additionally, a new gooseneck completion kit is available from GMC dealers that features a 2-5/16-inch ball hitch and two chain tie-downs. It carries a retail price of $315. GMC dealers also offer CURT Manufacturing fifth-wheel hitches compatible with the factory-installed hitch platform. They are available in 20,000-lb. and 25,000-lb. versions for $939 and $999, respectively (not including tax, installation and labor charges).

The 2016 Sierra HDs’ fifth-wheel trailering ratings are aligned with SAE J2807 standards, with maximum capacities including:

2500HD trailering rating of 18,000 pounds (8,165 kg)
3500HD single-rear-wheel trailering rating of 17,500 pounds (7,938 kg)
3500HD dual-rear-wheel trailering rating of 23,200 pounds (10,523 kg)

Read the entire article on GMC.com!

News Wire: GMC Enlists Josh Duhamel to Support Building for America’s Bravest During Military Appreciation Month

May 19, 2016GMCOzzie

Josh Duhamel with Marine Sergeant Ben Tomlinson. © General Motors.

To donate visit ourbravest.org/enlistme or call 844-BRAVEST

DETROIT – In honor of Military Appreciation Month, and as part of the ongoing relationship between GMC and veteran support program Building for America’s Bravest, the brand is calling on its staff, fans and fellow Americans to support the foundation’s work to build life-changing smart homes for severely injured service members. GMC has committed to contribute up to $2 million by the end of 2016 and is asking people across the country to “enlist to unlist” the more than 200 severely injured service men and women currently waiting for smart homes.

As part of the campaign, a continuation of the #enlistme activity started in 2015, GMC has enlisted the support of actor Josh Duhamel as campaign ambassador, in an effort to increase awareness and raise funds to make significant differences in the lives of these courageous service members.

Speaking on why he chose to support, Duhamel referenced his strong ties to both the military and the GMC brand. “I grew up near a military base in North Dakota. My aunt was in the military and completed a number of tours overseas and my grandfather was a proud veteran. I feel it’s my duty as an American, and as a supporter of our veterans, to do as much as I can to bring awareness to the work of Building for America’s Bravest. I have owned a GMC truck since 2004, so when GMC asked me to step up and work with them, it was a no-brainer. I hope you will join me in enlisting to support this incredible cause.”

GMC and its parent company have supported the U.S. military for more than 100 years, working with the mantra of “Helping, Hiring & Driving,” through a mixture of employment programs, veteran support programs and offering the best possible automotive military discount during Military Appreciation Month, which is offered to all 21 million veterans and their families through May 31, 2016.

Read the entire article at GMC.com!

News Wire: Cascada Launch Leads Buick’s Perception-Shifting 2016

May 18, 2016BuickOzzie

(This article originally appeared on Buick.com)

2016 Buick Cascada Convertible © General Motors.

Convertible attracts new customers ahead of three more launches

DETROIT – Shattering expectations has led to three consecutive years of Buick global sales growth, and that momentum is carrying through into 2016. Last month, Buick reached an all-time high in conquest sales, or customers trading in models from competitive brands. Two models — the new Cascada and the popular Encore — have been growing the Buick community the fastest. In 2016 alone, more than 35,000 new customers have switched to the brand.

Through April, 64 percent of Cascada buyers traded in vehicles from outside Buick or any other General Motors brand. Previous Audi, Toyota and Honda customers have been among the most common. Demand for the Cascada has outpaced supply with 2,487 sales year-to-date through April and 1,090 sales in April alone.

“The lasting impact of the Cascada will be a change in perception that only a sexy, sleek convertible can provide,” said Duncan Aldred, vice president of Buick Global Sales, Service and Marketing. “It’s changing minds and attracting customers in the country’s biggest convertible markets, with nearly half of sales coming from New York, New Jersey, Florida, Texas and California. These are all key markets for Buick’s continuing success.”

The Cascada is the first of four new vehicles arriving in U.S. showrooms for Buick and one of two in new segments for the brand. The first-ever Envision is now arriving at dealers and will have a 2017 model year starting price of $34,990. In the industry’s most popular segment, Envision will offer the longest available list of standard safety and a starting price $1,300 below the Acura RDX and $6,000 less than an Audi Q5.

More than 57 percent of Encore customers in 2016 have come from competitive brands, with customers citing value, quality and exterior styling as the top reasons for purchase. Priced to offer a premium entry point into the brand, the Encore now represents 40 percent of Buick sales.

Read the entire article on Buick.com!