GMC Sierra 1500 Two-Mode Hybrid
May 18, 2009 by jcme · Leave a Comment
If you’re interested in driving a quality GMC vehicle that is easier on the wallet at the gas station and better for the environment, you might be interested in the GMC Sierra 1500 Two-Mode Hybrid. This vehicle uses two separate electric motors that can power the truck all by themselves at up to 25 miles per hour. The electric motors are supplemented with a 6.0 liter V8 gas engine, which is supported by the electric motors, as well.
The gas mileage is impressive on this vehicle. It is EPA rated at 20 miles per gallon in the city, and 20 in the highway. The two wheel drive version of this vehicle gets a little bit better mileage, with 21 miles to the gallon in the city and 22 on the highway.
The GMC Sierra 1500 Two-Mode Hybrid drives well, too. YOu don’t notice the 300 extra pounds of components, such as batteries and electrical systems. The truck has plenty of pickup, and the gas engine blends well with the electric motors.
If you need a new GMC truck, come and see your GMC dealer today.
Problems with your Pontiac Brakes
May 18, 2009 by Adam · Leave a Comment
Listening to your brakes is one of the most important things you can do to make sure your Pontiac vehicle keeps going down the road safe and sound. If your brakes go out, it can lead to accidents, injury, and sometimes even death. By carefully listening to your brakes and by watching for the warning signs that there are problems with your brakes, you can help make sure you’re safe in the event of a braking emergency.
Certain noises can tell you that it’s time for you to get new brakes. A high-pitched screech can tell you that you need new brake pads. This noise is caused then a metal shim inside the pads, sometimes known as the indicator, is rubbing against other metal.
A grinding noise or a metallic growling can also mean you have brake problems. In fact, it may mean that your brakes are worn down to the point where the caliper and disc are rubbing together. If you hear this kind of noise, get your car looked at right away. This kind of repair gets more expensive the longer you let it go.
Finally, if your brake pedal vibrates or pulses, it can indicated that your rotors are warped. This can also mean that your vehicle needs an alignment. Either way, it’s time to get it into the shop. Call your Newtown Square area Pontiac dealer today to get your brakes looked at.
Pontiac History
May 18, 2009 by Adam · Leave a Comment
History of the Pontiac Brand
Pontiac is one of the brands in the General Motors Family. Pontiac holds many of GM’s performance vehicles, including SUVs and sporty cars.
The Pontiac brand began in Pontiac, Michigan, in 1907. It started out as the “Oakland Car Company of Pontiac, Michigan.” It was founded by a man named Edward Murphy. In 1909, General Motors acquired Oakland. By 1926, Oakland produced its first Pontiac vehicle. The car was known as the “Chief of the Sixes,” named so for its six cylinder engine, and it debuted at the 1926 auto show. The car was so successful in terms of sales that the “Oakland” was dropped from the name, and from then on it was just Pontiac.
During the 1930s and 40s, you could find a variety of Pontiac cars, from wagons to coupes to sedans, in the low to mid price range. One of the more interesting things about the period was the “Silver Streak.” This was a set of chrome lines that ran from the length of the hood up to the base of the windshield.
In the 1950s, the Pontiac Bonneville appeared. This car was a hit, to be sure. In 1964, however, Pontiac made a huge impact with the release of the GTO option for its “Tempest” line. This included V8 engine, and was truly the first “muscle car.” Also during the 1960s, Pontiac released the Firebird as well as the Trans Am.
In the 1970s, Pontiac began to make smaller cars. Pontiac released the Fiero, a two-seater sports car, as well as the compact Ventura and the Phoenix. In the 1990s, Pontiac released new vehicles like the Montana minivan, as well as the Sunfire.
Today, it looks like the doors are closing on Pontiac. Pontiac’s rich history reminds enthusiasts that the Pontiac car will live on, at least in our memories.
The Pontiac Experience
May 11, 2009 by Adam · Leave a Comment
As the sun sets on the Pontiac brand, it’s hard not to get at least a little bit nostalgic. Pontiac fans of all ages think back to those first Pontiac vehicles they saw on the road, and how that sleek style and performance left a mark on their lives. Maybe it was the GTO, cruising down the strip as a teenager. Maybe it was Burt Reynolds in the Trans Am from the movies. Maybe it was simply your first car – a used Grand Am that you drove until it just quit. Looking forward, Pontiac enthusiasts will have to search hard in order to fill the void left behind by this brand. General Motors doesn’t really offer a brand that encompasses the performance and style that was so closely associated with the Pontiac name. Still, there is always hope that, whether it’s under the GM moniker or not, that the Pontiac brand will one day return.
Your Pontiac's Air Conditioning
May 11, 2009 by Adam · Leave a Comment
One of the most important systems in your Pontiac vehicle , when it comes to comfort, is your air conditioning. While you don’t rely on the air conditioning to keep your car going or keep you safe, it’s a system that is pretty important, especially if you live in a warmer climate.
There are several major components to your Pontaic’s air conditioning system. There is a compressor, a condenser, an evaporator, an accumulator or receiver and dryer. If your air conditioning stops working, any one of these components to the air conditioning system could be at fault.
Most often, however, the reason that an air conditioning system will stop functioning properly is because it runs out of refrigerant. There are two types of refrigerants commonly in use in today’s vehicles: for vehicles made before 1994, the refrigerant is R-12. For vehicles 1995 and later, the refrigerant is R-134a.
Understanding just these few basic ideas about your air conditioning system can help you to make good choices when it’s time to have your air conditioning system looked at by your auto repair professional. Call your local Pontiac dealer near Springfield today to make sure your air conditioner is ready to roll this summer.
When To Get A New Pontiac
May 4, 2009 by Adam · Leave a Comment
Unless you are the type of person who goes through a new car every two or three years, chances are you’re going to drive your Pontiac vehicle for some time. There’s a point, however, at which you should definitely consider trading in your old reliable ride for a new Pontiac. Knowing when to get a new Pontiac can sometimes be tricky, and it varies from one person to the next.
Many families simply outgrow their existing vehicle. That Pontiac Vibe may have been nice when it was just you, your spouse, and one small child, but now with number three on the way it might be time to think about something bigger and better. The opposite is true, too; if your nest has become empty, you might not need to drive that Pontiac SUV.
For most people, it’s a good idea to try to get a new Pontiac before the old one loses all of its value. For example, if your old Pontiac needs repairs that are more than its trade-in value, it’s probably time to look for a new model.
Your local Pontiac dealer can help you get your new Pontiac. Come see us today.
Smart Car Shopping
May 4, 2009 by jcme · Leave a Comment
If you’re in the market for a new car and planning a visit to your Pontiac dealership, there are some things you can do in order to save some money, make your life easier, and get the best car you can get for the money you have.
Here are a handful of things you can do to get the most car for your dollar:
Buy with cash or pre-approved financing
If you can use cash to buy your car or if you can get pre-approved for a loan, this takes you out of the dealer financing situation. This gives you an advantage in that it keeps you in the price range you can afford. In addition, there’s no pressure at the dealer to finance. Having said all of that, you should still be on the lookout for special financing terms available only at a dealership.
Shop by yourself
While it can be nice to have someone with you to get an opinion on a car, family and friends can also be extremely distracting. In addition, you might find yourself in a situation where your friend or family member trying to talk you into a car you don’t want because they like the car. Bring someone with you if you wish to help negotiate or to help you determine the quality of the vehicle, but don’t be pressured.
Shop early in the week
By shopping early in the week, such as on a Monday, you’re more likely to get some extra attention from a salesperson. Your salesperson may also be more willing to make a deal on a day that isn’t very busy, too.
Getting Your Pontiac Tuned Up
May 4, 2009 by Adam · Leave a Comment
One of the most important things you can do for your Pontiac is to take your car into your Pontiac dealer on a regular basis. One of the regular maintenance tasks you should have done is a tune-up. A tune-up consists of several components, all of which are designed to replace parts of your car that get old and tend to wear out. A tune up can help your gas mileage, prolong the life of your engine, and keep your car running smoothly.
Several things happen when you get a tune up. First of all, your fluids are checked, fuel filter replaced, spark plugs changed, air filter replaced, valves adjusted, valve-cover gaskets replaced, spark plug wires changed out, and many other things checked out.
Usually, a tune up will also include an inspection. The mechanic will look at the condition of your tires, check your air conditioning and heating, and look at your brakes and brake fluid. Several other parts will probably be looked at, including the timing of your vehicle, the PCV valve, the distributor cap and rotor, the oxygen sensor, and the carburetor.
Generally speaking, you should get a tune up about once a year.
