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Dangers Of Driving In the Rain With Your Cruise Control On

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I ran across this article on Facebook written by Gene Cobb a Driving Safety Instructor. I never really gave driving in the rain with your cruse control on too much thought. I do it all of the time…I’m not so sure I will now.

Excellent Driving Tip: Especially for the young drivers!

A 36 year old female had an accident several weeks ago. It was raining, though not excessively when her car suddenly began to hydroplane and literally flew through the air. She was not seriously injured but very stunned at the sudden occurrence! When she explained to the Police Officer what had happened, he told her something that every driver should know – NEVER DRIVE IN THE RAIN WITH YOUR CRUISE CONTROL ON.. She thought she was being cautious by setting the cruise control and maintaining a safe consistent speed in the rain…. But the Police Officer told her that if the cruise control is on, your car will begin to hydro-plane when the tires lose contact with the road, and your car will accelerate to a higher rate of speed making you take off like an airplane. She told the Officer that was exactly what had occurred. The Officer said this warning should be listed, on the driver’s seat sun-visor along with the airbag warning. NEVER USE THE CRUISE CONTROL WHEN THE ROAD IS WET OR ICY We tell our teenagers to set the cruise control and drive a safe speed – but we don’t tell them to use the cruise control ONLY when the road is dry. The only person the accident victim found who knew this, (besides the Officer), was a man who’d had a similar accident, totaled his car and sustained severe injuries…

Now, this certainly made sense to me. However, I haven’t independently verified this, or have done much research outside of the article itself. That being said, I thought it was more important to relay this information to you with haste, because if it is accurate, it is certainly information that you need to know!

If you have more information, or feel that this warning is in accurate, please leave a comment below. The more we know about safe driving tactics, the better we will ALL be for it.

 

Check Out The Towing Capabilities Of The 2014 GMC Sierra

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If you are like many Texans, you enjoy your outdoor activities and for many of you that means either RVing, boating or additional activities that involve you towing something behind your truck. If this is you, you may be interested to know that the new 2014 GMC Sierra is not just a pretty face. This new version of the Sierra is a serious workhorse. Not only does the all-new 2014 GMC Sierra redefine comfort and quality with attention to detail, it also offer premium features, materials and an available 6.2L Ecotec3 V8 engine. This power factory is estimated at 420 horsepower with 450 lb-ft of torque and is the most powerful Sierra 1500 engine ever, making it the most powerful pickup in its class. The class-leading towing weight is upwards of 11,500 lbs when ordered with the available Max Trailering Package.

Check out what pickuptrucks.com had to say about the new 2014 GMC Sierra’s towing and performance capabilities.

Plus, when you take just one look at the outside and inside the all-new 2014 GMC Sierra and you’ll see clearly why this is the new standard in full-sized trucks. Sierra’s exterior has been boldly redesigned with crisper sharper lines and the interior brings comfort, refinement and convenience to a whole new level.

This new GMC Sierra is really something that has to be seen. Throw out everything you know, or thought you knew about the GMC Sierra and head over to your local GMC dealer to check one out first hand. And yes…you can bring your boat, RV or trailer to really experience the towing supremacy of this new GMC.

Learn to Tell The Difference Electrical VS. Mechanical Problem

	Buick dealer dallas, buick dealer fort worth, dallas Buick Dealer, dallas fort worth used car, Dallas GMC Dealer, dallas GMC Truck, dallas new car, dallas Used Car, dallas Used Truck, dfw driving, fort worth Buick dealer, freeman grapevine, GMC Dealer, GMC Professional Grade, GMC Truck, making a GMC, professional gradeDoes your car have electronics? The answer is obviously, “Yes” (well for most of your anyway). You do realize that those electronics are going to have to be looked at due to a malfunction at some point. Today’s cars are very complicated and are as much computers as they are vehicles. Freeman Grapevine has the knowledge to diagnose and fix any type of electrical issue.

The electrical systems in new cars have definitely made driving a lot easier over the decades. The seemingly endless innovations in electrical systems have helped us enjoy a more comfortable and easier drive. However, it can’t be Peaches and Cream all of the time. Let’s say, you have problems starting your car and notice other problems with the electrical system. Let’s cover some of the issues that you could face with your new  vehicle’s electrical system:

Common Automobile Electrical System Problems Are :

Car’s Battery Is Dead – This is the most common problem…and most obvious. Check your battery by engaging your headlights and judge by the illumination.

No Power Stored in the Battery – When you turn the key, what do you hear? A little click? Does it sound like it want’s to turn over? It is possible that your car’s battery does not have ample power to crank the starter. You need a new battery.

Alternator is Not Working – A damaged or broken alternator could be the culprit. No alternator? No battery recharge. If your car suddenly start to lose “juice” while drive, you’ll know it could be your new car’s alternator.

Problem with Starter or Solenoid – Good parts gone bad parts. If it’s the starter, it won’t turn over. If you have Solenoid issues, you might find it harder to brake.

Battery Cables Might Be The Problem – A loose cable might be the root of the problem…give them a wiggle before you run out and buy a replacement.

Electrical Fuses – Check for any blown fuses in your fuse box. Also, feel around for any loose wires.

Cracks In Alternator Belt – Too much or too little tension, as well as cracks in the alternator belt cause trouble.

Ignition System Has Problems – You have a busted ignition switch. Give your mechanic a call.

Loose Spark Plugs – Loose or old plugs will certainly affect the operation of your vehicle. Are you loosing power as gears change? Does it lurch as if the gears aren’t engaging? It might be the internal combustion and the culprit is usually the plugs and cables.

Now these are just guidelines you can crosscheck with a Freeman Grapevine Service Consultant any issue you might have experienced. I you can talk with your mechanic about your new car logically by doing a little research, you help him help you even faster. Just give us a call to set up an appointment.

Adapting A Vehicle For Handicapped Use

If you are, or know someone who is a person with a disability then you may understand the limitations that also come with being disabled. They can be quite frustrating. However, those limitations shouldn’t impede a persons ability to own and operate their own car, truck or SUV. That’s why I would like to share some great resources that discuss some of these accessories and adaptations that can be adapted to your own vehicle to make it easier, or for some even possible to drive a vehicle, like a Freeman Grapevine Buick GMC

Here is a list of motoring accessories for disable people:

  • hand controls to operate the accelerator and brake
  • steering wheel knobs that help you turn the wheel more easily and give greater control
  • wheelchair hoists, ramps and tail lift accessories to help you get in and out of your vehicle
  • seat support, cushions and covers for more comfort
  • adapted mirrors
  • adapted safety belts, seat belts and harnesses
  • seats that rotate
  • people lifts
  • wheelchair hoists

Here are some accessories for people who have lower body disabilities

  • a steering wheel knob fitted to the rim of the steering wheel
  • automatic transmission
  • direction indicators and the horn within finger reach or as foot controls, which you can operate without letting go of the wheel
  • moving the handbrake to the right of the driver’s seat
  • joystick steering

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

According to some resources, if you have an artificial limb fitted below the elbow you can drive a car using a special concave limb attachment fitted over the steering wheel or the gear lever.

Even if you have lost the use of both arms, it is possible to still drive with redesigned car controls. Another option is a foot steering system.

Here are some options and adaptions to consider  if you have lost the use of one of your legs or have reduced usage in one leg :

  • an automatic transmission car, which does not require the use of a clutch
  • moving the accelerator on an automatic car to the left side of the foot brake if you have a right leg disability
  • a semi-automatic clutch, which allows you to use a manual gearbox without clutch pedals

If you have lost the use of both legs, you may consider adaptations like:

  • hand controls with an automatic transmission
  • steering assistance

If you have your vehicle modified or buy an adapted vehicle, it is important to learn how to operate the vehicle. There may be options to take training course to get comfortable with driving with these adaptations.

Just about any vehicle, new or used, can be adapted to fit the needs of most people with disabilities. If you, or someone you know owns and operates a specially designed vehicle and we’ve left out any important information above, please don’t hesitate to leave a few comments in the section below. We may have missed something and your knowledge will be much appreciated by everyone here at Freeman Grapevine and by all of our readers.

Dallas Fort Worth Vehicles Killing Your Back

“OW!!! My aching back!” A lot of us experience lower back pain while driving our cars. A number of researches have investigated the relationship between driving and Back Pain, which some interesting results. One finding is a comparison of drivers in the USA and in Sweden found that 50% of people questioned in both countries reported low back pain.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4HVoF4QeWo0

So what is the connection of driving and back pain?

So far, research has found three factors for low back pain whilst driving: vibration from the engine (something that you can not change), sitting position and  the length of time that we drive.

Here are some ways to make your driving experience more comfortable.

The Seat

Make sure that your bottom sits all the way in the back of the seat – where the base and the back of the seat meet. This will help to make you sit more upright and maintain the natural curvature of the spine, minimizing the stress on the spinal ligaments. If your seat has a lumbar roll built-in have this all the way out.

The Base length and Height of the Seat

The base of the seat should never touch the back of your knees and the front of the base should be slightly higher than the back, helping to provide more support and allowing you press the pedals without changing your spinal posture.

The Backrest

First relax back into your seat, place the seat at about a 10-15 degrees incline from the vertical position. If this feels unnatural to you then it probably means that the backrest is not upright enough for you. This can result into neck strain and / or coccyx (sitting bone) pain.

The Headrest

The position of your headrest will not only help to lower the injuries in an accident, but also to help to allow a better posture. The bony bit at the back of your head is a good guiding point, the headrest should be level with this. There should be about 1 inch between the back of your head and the headrest. This allows for the ligaments and the muscles of your neck to control the posture of your head better and giving better support in case of an accident.

Seat – Pedal distance

Make sure you have the distance between seat and the pedals so that when operating the pedals this does not cause you to over stretch your legs or twist your body in any way. Your legs should not be straight when pushing the throttle or clutch all the way down. Obviously your knees should not be bend to the point you cannot easily move from one pedal to another. It is normal to have your knees bent about 45 degrees.

The Arm position

Your arms should be as relaxed as possible, elbows bend around 20-30 degrees. If your steering wheel is adjustable have it in the mid to lower position, this will help to reduce the stress on your shoulders. Your hands should be positioned at ’10 past10′ and not as is suggested left hand at 9 o’clock and right hand at 3 o’clock.

Take breaks

We all have seen the “Rest Stop” signs along the roads…do it! Taking a break helps your back as well, so when you need to take a rest you can have a stretch at the same time to help your back.

As someone who experiences back pain from time to time, I know how much more it may be amplified while driving. The driving position isn’t always the best as it puts some irregular curves to your back and thus may require more lumbar support.

If you have any tips or hints for us at Freeman Grapevine on how to alleviate back pain while driving, let us know in the comments section below!

Dumb Things NOT To Do To Your Car

	Buick Dealer, buying used car, car brakes, dallas Buick Dealer, Dallas GMC Dealer, dallas GMC Truck, dallas new car, dallas Used Car, dallas Used Truck, dallas Used Truck. New Car, DFW Buick, dfw car dealer, dfw gmc, driving anxiety, electronic roadside signs, Fort Worth Buick, fort worth gmc, Fort Worth Truck Dealer, Ft. Worth Buick, Ft. Worth car dealer, ft. worth gmc, GMC Dealer, GMC Truck, professional grade, track no go, Used Car, Used TruckAt Freeman Grapevine, we’ve seen a lot of dumb things people have done, or in some cases, “haven’t done” to their cars. Almost all “dumb” things people do to their cars can be avoided by just using some common sense. Really. Your car can provide years of unfettered service if you just use your head a little and don’t try to perform maintenance that is out of your skill set.

There are hundreds of “dumb” things we do to our car, but what are the 4 most common things we see rolling through our service department at Freeman Grapevine?

  1. Jumping with an improperly connected battery
  2. Running out of Gas (yes, this really happens)
  3. Not changing the oil
  4. Letting the Anti-freeze become corrosive

I know that most of you are thinking to yourself, “people really do that”? The short answer is, “yes”.

Check out the video below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=09o07bh0k-4

Don’t get us wrong, we know how easy it is to do something silly like hook up a battery in reverse, you just have to make sure you know what you are doing before you attempt any maintenance on your own car. Do your research. If you aren’t sure how to jump start a car because you’ve always relied on someone else to do it for you, have someone show you the right way. It’s the easiest thing you can learn how to do as a car owner.

Again, we all make mistakes, but when you are dealing with an automobile, those mistakes can cost you big bucks. If you need maintenance performed on your vehicle, but aren’t sure if you are up for the task, don’t neglect your car. Bring it into Freeman Grapevine and we’ll take care of it for you. The last thing you’d ever want to do is attempt a fix that you aren’t qualified for or else you’ll be adding to the list of the dumb things NOT to do to your car.

Can you Diagnose A Bad Fuel Pump?

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Check out the great video below by Eric the Car Guy!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=piOzN1tZI_E

I think one important issue that isn’t included in the video is the presence of sediment. Sediment can and will collect at the bottom of your fuel cell. A great way to avoid sediment deposits is actually quite easy. Keep your tank at least a quarter of the way full at all times. This small attention to detail might just save the life of that fuel pump.

If you’ve run through your diagnostic checks and you think you may have a fuel pump problem, call Freeman Grapevine before your issue gets worse. A broken fuel pump will certainly leave you stranded roadside, or worse..in the middle of the road.

It’s Time To Change Your Cabin Air Filter

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Now keep in mind, not all Buicks and GMCs have cabin air filters. However, many do and if your Buick or GMC has a cabin filter, it should be changed once a year.

So, where is the cabin air filter? If your Buick or GMC has one, it will be behind the glove box. Consult your vehicle’s handbook for it’s location.  If you’ve lost or misplaced it, call your Freeman Grapevine.

Using online sources, like YouTube are also incredible place to find information.

httpvh://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tnD5PauWTu0

Rather not deal with it? No problem, we will take car of it for you. Just give service a call and book an appointment. Having purified cabin air is really going to improve your comfort level by filtering out unwanted spores, dirt, dust and fumes.

New Drivers Need To Know More Than The Rules Of The Road

If you have a child, it’s inevitable that one day they are going learn to drive and end up wanting to borrow the keys to your car. Of course they are going to go to  a driving school, and you may show them a thing or two in an abandoned parking lot.  However, their automotive education should end there. It’s a very good idea to cover basic car care tips.  Owning a car means more than learning how to get from point A to point B, it also entails knowing how to keep your car running, and knowing how to fix and prevent problems.

“What do you mean I have to change my oil?”

I’m surprised at how many new drivers think that their car operates via some kind of magic and rarely give a second thought to how the thing actually works. Changing the oil is a prime example. Young drivers may go way too long between oil changes, if they even change it at all. A good plan is for you, the driving parent, to walk them around the car and show them under the hood and explain to them how things work.  Here’s some good things to teach them.

  • Explain that all cars, new and old, need regular attention. Make sure your teenager knows and follows the maintenance schedule for her car. In addition to making a car safe to drive, preventive maintenance can save thousands of dollars during a lifetime of driving.
  • Don’t overlook the owner’s manual. This is full of information about the car that your young driver may never know unless he is familiar with this automotive bible.
  • Make it fun. There are myriad sites on the Internet that are fascinating for young and old drivers alike. Some have Q & A sections. Let your teen send the tough questions to the professionals.
  • It’s probably been a while since they went on a field trip. Take them with you to the repair facility, the tire store, the body shop and wherever you have automotive work performed. Get them accustomed to the automotive world-its people, places, jargon and prices.
  • There are hundreds of books available on this subject. Many are written specifically for non-technical audiences; some are even humorous. Buy a few and make them required reading for the licensing process.
  • Make a plan. What happens if the car breaks down, your child has a wreck, or the car gets stolen? What if no adults are home to receive the panic call? Whether you want your teenager to call your family repair facility or Aunt Sadie, give some instruction and put important phone numbers in the glove compartment. [Source: Midas.com]

If you plan on doing any repairs at home, it’s a really good idea to have your new driver help with that service. It give you the opportunity show them the things that you are doing to repair the car. Of course, it goes without saying that, if your teen driver has proved themselves responsible enough to have their own car, swing by Freeman Grapevine and check out our used car selection.

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Change Your Air Filter For More Engine Efficiency

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An often overlooked, but an extremely important component in keeping your engine running smoothly and efficiently is your air filter.

Here, we see a lot of need for air filter cleaning, or replacement. It can be hard to adhere to a specific time or mileage figure when a cleaning or change needs to occur, because the life of the filter depends on how much dirt and grime it ingests. We have seen filters that last 20,000 or even 30,000 miles on a vehicle that’s driven mostly on expressways but those same filters may last only a month or two in a rural setting where the vehicle is driven frequently on gravel roads. Changing your air filter annually, or every 15,000 miles for preventative maintenance may be a good recommendation for the city driver, but not its country cousin.

Regardless of the mileage or time, a filter should be replaced before it reaches the point where it creates a significant restriction to airflow. Interestingly, a slightly dirty filter actually cleans more efficiently than a brand new filter. That’s because the debris trapped by the filter element helps screen out smaller particles that try to get through. Eventually every filter reaches the point where it causes enough of a pressure drop to restrict airflow. Fuel economy, performance and emissions begin to deteriorate and get progressively worse until the dirty filter is replaced.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r0nSeZcdVLM

If you think that your car could be performing better, or you don’t seem to be getting the gas mileage you believe you should, it might be time to change your air filter. Call Freeman Grapevine if you have any questions or need any assistance.