Don’t Underestimate The Dangers Of Railroad Crossings

Safe Driving, , , ,

Freeman Grapevine is back with another tale of some really dumb driving.  As many of you already know, railroad lines tic-tac across the state in almost every city and town. Many of the crossings are clearly marked with lights and gates, however there are a few that aren’t as clearly marked as they should be and thus can pose a hazard to the unsuspecting motorist. I think, for the most part though that many of the collisions between cars and trains are a direct result of driver error. And in many cases, driver stupidity.

Here’s what I mean. I was waiting at a rail crossing the other day, in fact I was the very first car in line. No big deal, sometimes you just have to wait these things out, besides, It would only be a couple of minutes out of my day to allow the train to pass by. And that’s when it happened, a car two vehicles behind my GMC darts out of line and attempts to navigate around the lowered crossing arms. I laid on my horn knowing that what this person was doing wasn’t only a danger to himself, but to those of us at the front of the line as well as the engineer.

I couldn’t believe what I was seeing! He made it around with just seconds between him and the passing train, made a right turn and continued down the road before the train ended up blocking my view.

I didn’t know if I was more scared, or furious that this individual would create such a dangerous situation. As I continued to think about it, the rail gates raised and I made a right, headed in the same direction as our train-dare-devil did and low an behold, who was stopped at the very next red light? You guessed it, our idiot driver. All of that, just to be stuck at the same red light I was at. Evidence that it simply doesn’t pay to take such dumb risks.

The following figures are courtesy of car-accidents.com:

According to the US Department of Transportation there are about 5,800 vehicle train crashes each year in the United States-usually at Railroad crossings. These accidents kill 600 people and injure about 2,300. More than 50% of all railroad fatal accidents occur at crossings with passive, or inadequate safety devices (often none at all!). During daylight about 75% of car train collisions involve the train hitting the car, while at night about 50% of the time the car runs into the train!

Car vs. Train accidents are very serious things. Do not attempt to outrun a train, or cross the guard barriers, you are tempting fate. Besides, what can be so important that would cause you to be so ridiculously irresponsible? The answer is: nothing. Respect railroad crossings, not just for your own good, but for the safety of those you should be waiting in line with.

If you have any stories about drivers you’d like to share, don’t hesitate to leave your recount in the comments section below. Freeman Grapevine cares about your safety and the safety of others on the road.

Proper Mirror Adjustment May Prevent An Accident!

Safe Driving

As soon as you get into your car, and even before you crank that engine and start driving on metroplex highways, do you know what you should do?  It’s a very simple task that can  certainly help you prevent getting into an accident.  You should adjust your mirrors! Yup! A simple adjustment to your mirrors might mean the difference of seeing your blind spot and not! Further, you’d be surprised at how many people DON’T adjust their mirrors the right way.

It’s quite simple really. There are two easy adjustments that can be made to your mirrors.  First, you should focus on eliminating your blind spots. After all, it’s what you can’t see that you end up hitting. Here’s a video from Auto Focus on how to do this:

Don’t think that you can just set and forget your mirrors just once either. You should set them every time you get in your car.  I’m serious. You might think it’s overkill, but you may sit in a different position each time, or share a vehicle with a family member. If that’s the case, you’ll need to adjust them each time.  I’m sure you know many accidents are caused because one driver didn’t see the other.  So why not take a few extra seconds to set your mirrors properly.

Do you have any safety tips to share that are often neglected?  If so, let your Dallas Fort Worth Buick GMC dealer, Freeman Grapevine know.

GMC Introduces Sierra HD All Terrain X

GMC

(This article originally appeared on GMC.com)

2017 GMC Sierra 2500HD All Terrain X © General Motors
2017 GMC Sierra 2500HD All Terrain X © General Motors

Third model in brand’s X series offered with all-new Duramax 6.6L diesel

AUSTIN, Texas — GMC today introduced the 2017 Sierra HD All Terrain X, the most off-road-capable model in the Sierra HD lineup, and one that matches its enhanced capability with trail-ready style and the brand’s signature refinement.

It joins Canyon and Sierra 1500 this fall as the third model in GMC’s distinctive, limited-edition All Terrain X series, offered on the Sierra 2500HD crew cab 4WD with a 6.0L gas V-8 engine or the all-new, next-generation Duramax 6.6L V-8 turbo-diesel. More powerful than ever, the new Duramax delivers a segment-topping SAE-certified 445 hp (332 kW) and an SAE-certified 910 lb.-ft. of torque (1,234 Nm).

“The new Sierra HD All Terrain X’s powerful attitude reflects a popular trend in very capable off-road trucks, executed with a range-topping level of refinement — a combination of attributes GMC has cultivated for years,” said Duncan Aldred, vice president of GMC Sales and Marketing. “And with the new, available Duramax 6.6L, this truck more than matches its bold good looks with true professional-grade capability.”

The All Terrain X’s customized appearance blends a premium package of monochromatic exterior trim and special equipment, complemented with GMC’s latest technologies. Content includes:

  • 18-inch black-painted aluminum wheels
  • LT275/65R18 Goodyear Duratrac MT-rated tires that feature an aggressive tread pattern for outstanding off-road performance
  • A unique body-color grille surround with All Terrain insert
  • Body-color door handles and bodyside moldings
  • Black power-adjustable heated and power-folding trailering mirrors with integrated turn signals, LED rear guidance lamps and LED amber clearance lamps
  • Black belt moldings, front bumper skidplate and B-pillars
  • 4-inch black sport side steps
  • Black sport bar (mounted in the bed) designed to support available GMC Accessories LED off-road driving lamps
  • Offered in Black Onyx and Summit White exterior colors

Read the entire article on GMC.com! 

Pay Attention To That Check Engine Light!

Maintenance and Service

Freeman Grapevine knows you’ve done it. No use tying to cover it up.  An indicator light goes on in the instrument panel or you hear a new, strange noise and of course you’re thinking that something must absolutely be wrong with your car and it needs immediate attention! Well relax, take a deep breath and let’s sort through some of the common car problems that you just don’t need to kick up a stink about!  And of course you can also come chat with us at Freeman Grapevine too!

The check engine light goes on and immediately you panic that just maybe, maybe…your car is going to blow up.  Take a deep breath and calm down. More than likely the check engine light is just signaling to you that you need to take your car in for a scheduled mileage maintenance. Usually the check engine light will show up in two colors, amber for non-emergency maintenance and red for you should probably hurry up and get it checked out sooner rather than later. Double check your vehicles manual to be 100% sure though as not all vehicles are the same.

Click. Click. Click. Ohhh, a new sound just sounded. What to do? Again, no need to panic. A lot of noises you hear are things that don’t need to be fussed about and will actually just sort themselves out. Just like how that rock got stuck between tires treads and is making the clicking sound, it will soon work itself out. Or if it’s really driving you crazy you can very carefully do some detective work and try to figure out which tire it is and get it out yourself.

A locked steering wheel and your key won’t turn. They’re not broken. You just need to put a little muscle into really. Seriously, grab the steering wheel and turn it hard in one direction and turn the key. If it’s still not working try the other direction.  But don’t force the key. You don’t want to break it or the ignition as that will be a very costly fix all for nothing. Once you get the steering wheel in the sweet spot the key should turn just as it normally does.

You think you might have a leak. So you just pulled out from your where your car was currently parked only to notice that there’s liquid there that you swear wasn’t there before. First, it really could have been there before and you just like to freak yourself out. Or maybe there is some liquid, but if it’s not a lot then there’s usually nothing really to worry about. In fact, if you’ve been using your AC a lot lately it could just be built up condensation. If you notice a color to the liquid then you may have a coolant leak. This could potentially be a problem so if you suspect it is check your coolant level, but carefully as the car needs to be completely cooled before doing so.

Hopefully those few common car problems mentioned above will help calm your nerves when you’re driving. But if you suspect a problem, please don’t hesitate to contact our service department so that we can get it fixed for you, just contact Freeman Grapevine today!

Even Less Than Perfect Credit Can Get You A New Car

Credit and Financing

Freeman Grapevine understands that less than perfect credit these days has become a fact of life. With the current state of the economy, there are many who have been hit hard and had their good credit rating nearly obliterated.  For those looking to buy a new car, having bad credit is a virtual “The Scarlet Letter”.

I’m here to let you know that it might not be as bad as you think. There is a lot of misplaced anxiety when it comes to trying to get a new or used car. First, you shouldn’t feel bad, or self-conscious if you don’t qualify for a standard or good credit car loan. The bottom line is that it’s been a tough several years and there are many more people with a bad credit score looking for loans than you’d think. In fact, almost a quarter of Americans have bad or poor credit. The “bad credit” bus has a lot of passengers.  Thanks to this fact, there are actually several companies that could provide you with an auto loan regardless of how bad your credit is.

What should you do first? How about a little research on your credit ranking. Check your credit history annually for reports which are not yours or are certainly not accurate. Since those false reports would decrease your credit score and increase your loan percentage rate, it is worth your time to look at your credit report. You can get a free credit report once a year thanks to the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act.

Now, how much can you really afford to cover? Remember, these are regular monthly payments. Make sure you have enough for a down payment. Try using this loan calculator to help figure out your monthly payments:  car loan payment calculator.

To seek help from the right people to get your very own car with the best deals, swing by and talk to us. Our guys here at Freeman Grapevine are credit experts and can not only get you a car, but also be the first step in getting your credit back on the road too!

Recycle Your Battery!

Going Green

Here at Freeman Grapevine, we like to be aware of any “footprints” our dealership can potentially leave on our environment.  Take your car battery, for example. When most green-minded folks think about being stewards of our planet,  they’re more likely to have visions of planting trees and cleaning  streams than pondering their car battery’s place in the universe. Understandable…there’s a lot you may not know about your new car’s battery.

First, your new car’s battery is highly toxic, being made up primarily of lead,  acid, and plastic. But the good news is they’re also highly recyclable,  and old ones usually end up getting turned into more batteries.

According to the industry trade group Battery Council International:

More than 97 percent of all used battery lead is recycled into new  batteries. When compared to the 55 percent of aluminum soft drink and  beer cans, 45 percent of newspapers, and 26 percent of glass bottles  that BCI says get recycled, batteries start looking pretty green. In  fact, lead-acid batteries top the list of  recycled consumer products.

In addition to recycling the lead, the plastic cases are melted down and used to make new ones. The acid, they say, can even get turned into  sodium sulfate, a powder used in glass, detergents, and textiles.  Alternatively, some recyclers neutralize the acid, turn it into water,  and release it into the public sewer system once it is cleaned and  tested.

While that last part may sound a little scary, it’s still better than  batteries ending up in a landfill, an incinerator, or by the side of  the road.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UWvZ4BA_ylg

The BCI Web site lists 44 states that prohibit disposing of old  car batteries in landfills and incinerators. Nearly 40 of those states  also require retailers and distributors to collect used batteries from  consumers for recycling. (Go to www.batterycouncil.org to see the details for your state.)

When shopping, your best bet is to find a dealer that will install  your new one for free and recycle the old one for you. If there’s a charge for installation, make sure to find out what it is before making a  purchase.

Recycle, recycle , recycle…If you want any more info, don’t hesitate to leave a comment or call Freeman Grapevine

Avenir Sub-Brand to Represent Highest Expression of Buick Luxury

Buick

(this article originally appeared on Buick.com)

Buick Avenir Sub-Brand © General Motors
Buick Avenir Sub-Brand © General Motors

Concept car-inspired models will join global portfolio in 2018 model year

DETROIT – Across continents, a growing set of new customers are discovering unexpected and attainable luxury experiences from Buick. Soon, those customers will be introduced to a new Avenir sub-brand designed to grow with the needs of future luxury buyers.

The Avenir sub-brand is inspired by Buick’s evolving customer base. The brand has grown quickly with female buyers, and one in two Buick customers today are coming from competitive brands. They’re expecting a high-end experience and premium quality. For example, 90 percent of Enclave buyers purchase one of the top two trim levels.

This year, an unprecedented number of new global products such as the Envision compact SUV and the 2017 LaCrosse sedan offer an elevated luxury experience that’s encouraging new car buyers to reassess what they know about Buick.

“Through the first half of 2016, Buick has been the industry’s fastest-growing major international brand, and Avenir is key to future growth and delivering on the high expectations of new customers coming to our showrooms,” said Duncan Aldred, vice president of Global Buick Sales, Service and Marketing. “Avenir will be Buick’s signature. The highest expression of the luxury experiences we’re delivering now and in the future.”

Avenir vehicles will add distinct touches to Buick’s timeless, sculpted designs, including a three-dimensional mesh grille, large-diameter wheels, and unique trim finishes. Inside, Avenir models will enhance the brand’s quiet, inviting environment with unique seat details, modern trim materials and Avenir script identification.

The name “Avenir,” French for “future,” is taken from the award-winning concept sedan from 2015. That concept and this year’s Avista coupe concept — from which the new sub-brand borrows its grille pattern — have served as guideposts for designers sketching and modeling Buick’s future.

Read the entire article on Buick.com!

 

New Duramax 6.6L Diesel Introduced on 2017 Sierra HD

GMC

(this article originally appeared on GMC.com)

The all-new 2017 Duramax 6.6L turbo diesel features more torque and horsepower and increased strength cylinder block, heads, crankshaft, connecting rods and pistons. The Duramax features a state-of-the-art oil separator and cold-start system among other features. © General Motors
The all-new 2017 Duramax 6.6L turbo diesel features more torque and horsepower and increased strength cylinder block, heads, crankshaft, connecting rods and pistons. The Duramax features a state-of-the-art oil separator and cold-start system among other features. © General Motors

Next-generation redesign is stronger, offering more power and greater refinement

DALLAS — GMC today announced the redesigned Duramax 6.6L V-8 turbo-diesel offered on the 2017 Sierra HD. This next-generation redesign offers more horsepower and torque than ever — an SAE-certified 445 horsepower (332 kW) and net 910 lb.-ft. (1,234 Nm) — to enable easier, more confident hauling and trailering.

Along with a 19 percent increase in max torque over the current Duramax 6.6L, the redesigned turbo-diesel’s performance is quieter and smoother, for greater refinement. In fact, engine noise at idle is reduced 38 percent.

“With nearly 2 million sold over the past 15 years, customers have forged a bond with the Duramax diesel based on trust and capability,” said Dan Nicholson, vice president, Global Propulsion Systems. “The new Duramax takes those traits to higher levels.”

The new Duramax 6.6L shares essentially only the bore and stroke dimensions of the current engine and incorporates a new, GM-developed control system. The Duramax’s signature low-rpm torque production hasn’t changed and still offers 90 percent of peak torque at a low 1,550 rpm and sustains it through 2,850 rpm.

“Nearly everything about the Duramax is new, designed to produce more torque at lower rpm and more confidence when trailering or hauling,” said Gary Arvan, chief engineer. “You’ll also notice the refinement improvements the moment you start the engine, and appreciate them as you cruise quietly down the highway — with or without a trailer.”

Additional highlights include:

  • New, stronger cylinder block and cylinder heads
  • New, stronger rotating and reciprocating assembly
  • Increased oil- and coolant-flow capacity
  • New EGR system with single cooler and integrated bypass
  • New electrically actuated/electronically controlled turbocharging system
  • All-new advanced solenoid fuel system
  • All-new electronic controls
  • New full-length damped steel oil pan that contributes to quietness
  • New rocker cover/fuel system acoustical treatments
  • B20 bio-diesel compatibility
  • SAE-certified 445 net horsepower (332 kW) at 2,800 rpm
  • SAE-certified 910 net lb.-ft. of torque (1,234 Nm) at 1,600 rpm

A new, patent-pending vehicle air intake system — distinguished on the Sierra HD by a bold hood scoop — drives cool, dry air into the engine for sustained performance and cooler engine temperatures during difficult conditions such as trailering on steep grades. Cooler air helps the engine run better under load, especially in conditions where engine and transmission temperatures can rise quickly. That allows the Duramax to maintain more power and vehicle speed when trailering in the toughest conditions.

The intake design is another example of the advanced integration included in the 2017 Sierra HD that makes it over-the-road capable.

Read the entire article on GMC.com!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

All-New Duramax 6.6L Diesel Is Our Most Powerful Ever

GMC

(This article originally appeared on GMC.com)

2017 GMC Sierra Denali 3500HD © General Motors
2017 GMC Sierra Denali 3500HD © General Motors

Greater horsepower, torque supports more confident trailering on 2017 Sierra HD

DALLAS — When it comes to horsepower from a diesel engine, the 2017 GMC Sierra HD tops the segment with an SAE-certified 445 hp (332 kW) from an all-new Duramax 6.6L V-8 turbo-diesel. And when it comes to the torque that enables effortless trailering and hauling, it also delivers more than ever: an SAE-certified net 910 lb.-ft. of torque (1,234 Nm) to make easier work of the heaviest loads.

The 2017 Sierra HD was introduced today in Texas, where more heavy-duty pickups are sold than in any other state, and where Dallas and Houston are two of the largest markets for the top-of-the-line Sierra Denali HD, which accounts for approximately 50 percent of Sierra HD sales nationally.

“GMC Sierra HD trucks and the Duramax diesel have a long-established legacy of offering customers confidence-inspiring capability for the largest tasks,” said Duncan Aldred, vice president of GMC Sales and Marketing. “With the new Duramax and additional enhancements, the 2017 Sierra HD takes the combination of refinement and capability to an unprecedented level.”

Along with a 19 percent increase in max torque over the current Duramax 6.6L and segment-best horsepower, the redesigned turbo-diesel’s performance is quieter and smoother, for greater refinement and more confidence when trailering or hauling.

The new Duramax 6.6L is a next-generation redesign of the venerable turbo-diesel engine and incorporates a new, GM-developed control system. The Duramax’s signature low-rpm torque production hasn’t changed, offering 90 percent of peak torque at a low 1,550 rpm and sustaining it through 2,850 rpm — an attribute that contributes to the Sierra HD’s confident pulling power.

A new, patent-pending vehicle air intake system — distinguished on the Sierra HD by a bold hood scoop — drives cool, dry air into the engine for sustained performance and cooler engine temperatures during difficult conditions such as trailering on steep grades. Cooler air helps the engine run better under load, especially in conditions where engine and transmission temperatures can rise quickly. That allows the Duramax to maintain more power and vehicle speed when trailering in the toughest conditions.

Driveline enhancements were made to increase strength and enhance durability, including a stronger front prop shaft and larger U-joints compared to previous Duramax-equipped Sierra HD models.

Read the entire article on GMC.com!

 

 

Dealer Or Independent For Service: Which Do You Use?

Maintenance and Service

This is a topic that Freeman Grapevine has a lot of personal experience with. I’m sure the answer, for the most part, really is up to the individual consumer. If you think you are going to get better service from an independent garage you are going to want to get all of the facts about that establishment before you decide to let them tinker under your hood.

I’m obviously going to want to steer you to Freeman Grapevine, as I believe we have one of the best service departments  in DFW. However, I know that there are a few people who choose to stay tried and true to their mechanic because they haven’t had a better experience at a dealership, in regards to service. It can happen. That’s why you should really weigh your options thoroughly before choosing either a dealer or an independent mechanic to service your vehicle.

In doing research to see who the majority of people preferred to service their vehicle, I found a great article at Edmunds.com that has some very good things to think about before you make a potentially bad decision. Here are a few excerpts from the article:

Dealers do have a distinct advantage when it comes to facilities. Dealers get manufacturers’ assistance with start-up costs and equipment. They get first dibs on any of the manufacturers’ newly developed service tools, specifications and, as noted above, recall and service bulletins. That way, the manufacturer keeps the latest information on new cars and the hardware to best service them “in-house,” at least for awhile. (This translates to keeping your money in-house, as well.)

Size also matters. Dealers usually have larger facilities and that means more service bays are available to accommodate customers. This can, but doesn’t always, translate to quicker turnaround time. You may find it more difficult to get prompt service at large, busy dealerships, especially if you go in without an appointment.

Dealer facilities are often cleaner, more organized and better maintained than smaller shops. At a dealer facility, you may find a waiting room, clean bathrooms, a place to buy car accessories, even the availability of drinks, snacks and television. They may even wash your car before returning it to you. This can make the overall experience a lot more pleasurable.

So how can small repair shops compete with dealers on facilities? The short answer is: They can’t.

I thought this was an interesting section as well:

Dealer service departments have a distinct advantage when it comes to manufacturer recalls and technical service bulletins. If you’ve moved since you first bought your car, or if the manufacturer simply doesn’t have your correct address on file, you may have no clue there’s an open recall on your car. Dealers should automatically check for recalls when you come in for service.

The more I kept looking into it, I found even more reasons to use the dealership as opposed to an independent. I would be remiss not to mention, however, that smaller shops have their benefits as well. It just seems, and I know this from personal experience, that you will have more mechanics, tools and brains hard at work which will directly translate into a job well done the very first time you bring your vehicle in for service. Don’t believe me? Try me. Bring your car to Freeman Grapevine the next time you need service and I’ll prove the value you of dealing directly with the dealership in regards to service.