Helpful Accessories for Your 2012 Chevy

If you’re thinking about purchasing a 2012 Chevy from a car dealer in Rhode Island, you may wonder if it has the right accessories for your lifestyle. Even if the 2012 Chevy you are considering purchasing from RI auto dealers doesn’t come standard with the accessories you want, you can find a variety of helpful add-on accessories at a reasonable cost to maximize your vehicle purchase.

Maintaining Cleanliness

If you like to keep your vehicle as clean as possible, this is one accessory that you won’t want to skip:

– Floor Mats

Removable floor mats allow you to keep any mud, snow, ice, or other dirt from permanently staining the upholstery on your vehicle floor.

Outdoor Enthusiasts

Are you planning on using your vehicle for traveling to your favorite hiking, camping, or boating spot? Let these accessories help you take your gear with you:

– Roof Racks

Roof racks allow you to take your bicycle, snowboard, or other outdoor equipment with you without having to worry about whether your equipment will fit inside your vehicle.

– Roof Mounted Cargo Holds

If you regularly backpack or camp, a roof mounted cargo hold can give you the extra space you need for your tent, cooking equipment, and other gear.

– Hitches

Boating enthusiasts will appreciate a hitch that can attach a boat to your 2012 Chevy, allowing for easy transportation.

Commuting Comfort

Many workers spend a lot of time on the road before and after work, so having a comfortable atmosphere during the drive is a must. These accessories can help:

– Heated Seats

Instead of freezing on those cold morning commutes, you can get a heated seat kit that lets you drive in comfort.

– Remote Start

A remote starter will let you heat or cool your vehicle before you have to leave for work, letting you avoid that uncomfortable time waiting for your heater or air conditioner to kick in.

Whether you purchase new or used, car dealers in Rhode Island can assist you in finding accessories for your vehicle. What accessories will you choose for your upcoming Chevy purchase?

Leasing Vs. Buying

When people visit car dealers in Rhode Island, they face the choice of buying or leasing. Since each person’s needs differ, some individuals may benefit from one option more than the other. Before visiting any RI auto dealer, consider all of the following factors before making a decision:

Leasing

Leases are popular among people who want to drive a new car without paying the new car price. The following are also advantages of leasing:

1. The vehicle is always under warranty.
2. Drivers are able to enjoy a car that would normally be out of their buying price range.
3. The required down payment is low.
4. In some situations, leased vehicles for business purposes may be tax deductible.

Although many people enjoy paying less for the privilege of driving a top of the line, low-risk vehicle, leasing also has the following disadvantages:

1. There is an annual mileage cap, which is usually 15,000 miles.
2. Driving beyond the mileage cap incurs extra charges.
3. While major repairs are covered under the warranty, it is still necessary to pay for regular maintenance.
4. If the driver wishes to purchase the vehicle at the end of the lease, it is more expensive to buy it.

Buying

People who want to eventually free themselves of monthly car payments usually prefer to buy. In addition to eventual ownership, buying offers the following advantages:

1. Drivers have the ability to customize or modify their vehicles.
2. When the vehicle is paid off, the owner enjoys a feeling of accomplishment.
3. After the vehicle’s warranty expires, there are no restrictions for self-performed repairs.
4. Since there is equity, the vehicle can be traded in or resold.

While there are few disadvantages to buying a car, the following are points that some people may find unattractive when it comes to buying:

1. With each year that passes after paying off the vehicle, its resale value depreciates.
2. After the car’s warranty expires, the owner must pay for all repairs.

There is also the option of buying a Rhode Island used car. To decide between leasing, buying new or buying RI used cars, consider personal driving requirements. Which option best suits your lifestyle?

5 Great Reasons to Purchase OnStar

Simon Chevy, the top name among car dealers in Rhode Island, offers vehicles equipped with OnStar. An OnStar membership has many advantages that can make your life easier as a driver and car owner. Here are five reasons to consider OnStar when shopping for Rhode Island used cars:

1. Automatic Crash Response.

OnStar detects collisions and automatically telephones an emergency assistant with information about the vehicle’s location and condition. This means that OnStar users will receive the fastest and best-prepared response possible. The OnStar network is operational 24 hours a day, so someone will always be available to respond in an emergency.

2. Other Emergency Services.

By pressing the red emergency button, you can connect with an emergency assistant at any time. These assistants will attempt to help you or stay on the line until a response team arrives. The emergency system can also be used to alert responders to other problems you encounter on the road such as road debris or a car accident.

3. Hands-Free Calling.

OnStar’s Hands-Free Calling permits you to place calls without taking your hands off the steering wheel—you only need to say the number you wish to dial. Coverage extends over the vast majority of the continental United States and many parts of Canada.

4. Turn by Turn Navigation.

OnStar can help you locate your destination. You can store a location for later use, or you can contact an OnStar Advisor to help you locate and arrive at any destination you wish. With OnStar, you can eliminate getting lost in an unfamiliar neighborhood or feeling intimidated when driving through a new city.

5. OnStar Vehicle Diagnostics.

Every month, OnStar will perform a diagnostic check on your car’s systems, including air bags, anti-lock brakes and emissions. OnStar will then email you a detailed but easy-to-understand report letting you know the current condition of your car.

Are you interested in RI used cars with OnStar features like these? If you would like more information, ask the RI auto dealers at Simon Chevy about OnStar.

Recognizing Signs of Transmission Problems

Because the transmission is literally the driving force behind any vehicle, problems with this system must be remedied as soon as possible. Of course, taking your car into the shop as soon as it begins making an unfamiliar sound isn’t always necessary, either. The ability to recognize transmission problems on your own is a valuable skill and can potentially help save you hundreds of dollars in costly repairs.

The tell-tale signs of transmission trouble can vary from vehicle to vehicle. If any of the following symptoms apply to your car or truck, a visit to your local Rhode Island auto service shop may be in order.

• The car refuses to go into gear properly.

This will only affect drivers of manual shift cars and trucks. If there is a problem with transmission fluid level, clutch linkage or the position of various shifter cables, the stick may seem stiffer than usual, refusing to push into gear as normal.

• A burning smell is emitting from beneath the hood.

The smell of burning transmission fluid may indicate low fluid levels, a leak or an overheating transmission. Because this can cause serious problems if left untreated, it is important to assess the issue as soon as possible.

• The transmission is knocking.

Loud, erratic bumps that occur during shifting usually point to a problem, but if your car also gives off random bumping noises while in neutral, you very well could be experiencing major transmission wear and tear.

To avoid further damage to your vehicle, be sure to seek out proper Rhode Island transmission repair before any problem gets worse. An untreated issue can lead to expensive repairs and, potentially, the need for a brand new transmission. Reputable Rhode Island auto repair professionals are equipped with the tools, experience and expertise necessary to diagnose and repair transmission problems of any kind.

Picking The Right New Chevrolet Car

You can’t go wrong with a new Chevrolet car, truck or SUV, but certain models may be more appropriate for your needs than others.

Fortunately, your trusted Chevrolet dealer can help you decide on the new car that’s right for you, even if it’s really a new Chevrolet truck or SUV that’s the best choice.

In fact, a new Chevrolet SUV is often the best choice for couples with children they must transport and for business travelers who must carry packages or equipment and need to be able to secure them when out of the vehicle.

Trucks are a great choice when you never know what you might need to carry at a moment’s notice.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, young couples without children or those who need a small, maneuverable and economical commuter vehicle may prefer the Chevy Sonic. This new model replaces the Aveo and is intended for drivers who need economy but still expect a comfortable ride and a dependable vehicle.

For drivers who put a lot of miles on a car, comparing EPA mileage estimates is a good way to determine the cost of using the vehicle. If you must stay in the vehicle for long periods each day, however, it’s important to choose a roomy and luxurious vehicle that can serve as home away from home when necessary.

To make the buying process as easy as possible, some buyers research models before visiting a showroom. Since look, feel and handling are among the most important factors in choosing a car, researching in advance may not be necessary.

In some cases, the vehicle itself tells you all you need to know during the test drive.

While you can’t go wrong with any new Chevrolet car, you can ensure total satisfaction by making a careful and considered choice.

New Features On 2012 Chevrolet Cars

If you’re looking to purchase a new Chevrolet car, there has never been a better time. The 2012 model year brings some new features as well as some important changes in the Chevy lineup.

All of the major and minor changes have been made based on customer feedback and model sales to bring this year’s model choices even more closely in line with what customers like you demand.

In general, Chevy cars models available at your Rhode Island Chevy dealership are among the best ever offered by Chevrolet. The brand keeps getting better and better. Specifically, however, several models sport better prices and better features.

Based on customer feedback, the Chevy Aveo has been replaced by the new Sonic sedan and hatchback. The Chevy HHR is also no longer available.

The Chevy Volt drops about $1,000 in price for the 2012 model year.

Here is a sampling of other changes and improvements:

• The Avalanche and Suburban now include electronic trailer sway control to make pulling a load easier and safer.
• The V6 Camero gets more power, and the SS coupe gets revised sport suspension. Both models gets soft inserts in the dash and an easy-to-grip steering wheel.
• The Corvette gets better seats, better armrests and a new steering wheel.
• The Traverse now comes with body-colored heated side mirrors that are power-adjustable and power-folding. Later this year, new dark silver and crystal red exterior paint jobs will be available as well.

While some of these changes may seem minor, they prove just how well-received many Chevy vehicles have been in previous model years. Only simple changes have been required on most models to keep them in their strong market positions.

Your Rhode Island Chevy dealership can take you through all the changes on the models that most interest you.

Tips for Selecting a Used Chevrolet Car

Once you’ve made the wise decision to buy a used Chevrolet vehicle, selecting the right car, truck or SUV for you and your family is important to ensure years of use and comfort.

The cost of a used Chevrolet car is based on a number of factors, including its mileage, condition, performance and model popularity.

While you obviously want a dependable vehicle that performs well, you may be able to save if the used Chevrolet truck  or car model you want isn’t the most popular model.

Choosing the right used Chevrolet SUV, truck or car model can save you 20 to 30% or more compared to buying new and taking a few extra minutes to make sure you’re choosing the right used vehicle can save you from future hassles.

The most important step in choosing a used Chevrolet is the test drive. Once you’ve narrowed your search to the available models that appeal to you, the test drive ensures that particular vehicle has the feel, power and handling you expect.

During the test drive, it’s important to make sure the vehicle has enough headroom and legroom, accelerates and brakes well and offers clear visibility in the rearview and side mirrors. You may also want to listen for intrusive engine noise and check the location of gauges and controls if these things are important to you.

While you can depend on your trusted Chevrolet dealer to offer a wide selection of reliable, well-priced used vehicles, personal preference plays an important role in a used car purchase.

Chevys are built to last, and that’s why its important to makes sure the used car you choose today is one you will love for years to come. Of course, you can always trade it in for another used Chevrolet when you’re ready for a change.

The Importance of Brake Repair During the Winter Months

In the winter, road conditions are often less than ideal. That means properly functioning brakes are essential for making the best of bad road situations. There is nothing more frightening than the possibility of stepping on the brake pedal and not receiving the expected result.

In fact, no feeling is worse than not being able to bring a vehicle to a safe stop.

Fortunately, the Rhode Island brake repair specialists at a Chevrolet auto service center can restore failing brakes to proper function using genuine replacement parts that are guaranteed to perform well.

Because braking problems can be so dangerous, having brakes checked before the worst of the winter weather arrives is crucially important to driver safety. Ideally, it is best to have brakes serviced in the fall, before slick roads are likely. It is never too late, however, to correct brake problems and improve vehicle performance in every kind of driving situation.

Once a brake problem starts, it will only worsen without professional service. Once a problem is suspected, it is essential to get service immediately because it can lead to a brake system failure with expensive and dangerous consequences.

Squealing, grinding, unusual vibrations and pulling to one side when trying to stop are all signs of worn brake pads, damaged rotors and other brake problems. Pads are designed to wear away, so replacing them when they begin squealing is essential to preventing further problems. Rotors can be easily repaired or replaced as well.

Brake repair is not something to leave in the hands of an amateur mechanic or an unproven repair shop, however.

With the help of the Rhode Island brake repair specialists at a trusted Chevrolet auto service center, vehicles with bad brakes can be made safe and ready for whatever driving conditions await the vehicle and its driver this winter.

Preventative Maintenance Adds Years to the Life of Your Car

Regular maintenance is part of the expense of car ownership. However, if you’re pinching pennies, think twice before skipping out on regular auto service for your Chevrolet. A recent survey by Consumer Reports polled car owners, 40% of whom admitted that the current economic climate has caused them to postpone regular maintenance and repairs on their primary vehicle. People are trying to save money, and routine car care is often one of the first casualties of a floundering economy.

The fact is this: Avoiding routine auto maintenance just to save a few dollars can cause you even more economic hardship. A lack of basic automotive maintenance can result in equipment failure, resulting in added repair costs, shortening vehicle usefulness and increasing the likelihood of an accident. Unchanged oil becomes sluggish and damaging to internal engine parts; old, bald tires can blow out or not grip properly on slippery surfaces; worn brakes can fail. If you live in Rhode Island, auto service for your Chevrolet including oil changes, tire rotation and brake service, among others, can help extend the life of your car and make it safer on the road.

This is especially true during the winter and summer months, when a poorly maintained vehicle can unexpectedly fail and leave the driver stranded in severe weather—or worse—cause an accident. Regular Chevrolet auto service can go a long way to prevent vehicle failure due to neglected car components, making your car safer and more dependable.

Regular auto service makes economic sense. By spending a small amount of cash on regular oil changes, tire rotation and brake replacement, you are reducing the chances that major repairs will be necessary in the future. Chevrolet auto service, scheduled at regular intervals, ensures that your car will be reliable for years to come and that you will be safer on the road.

Increase Resale Value by Choosing to Repair Your Car after a Minor Accident

If you are in a minor accident that results in dents or other damage, you may be thinking about living with the damage to your car to avoid the cost of repair and having to report the accident to your insurance company. While it may seem to make the most financial sense right now, you can be sure that you will regret not getting your car repaired now when you try to sell it in the future.

Even minor cosmetic damage can seriously hurt the resale value of your vehicle, and not addressing the damage can create further problems. You may have no problem driving your vehicle with cosmetic damage and figure that you will get the damage fixed when you have the time. However, damage that escalates due to neglect will cost more money to fix and will decrease the resale value of your car even further.

Damage sustained after even a minor accident can impact the resale value of your vehicle by as much as 40 percent. In many cases, the amount of money it takes to repair the damage is less than the amount of money you will lose when you try to sell a damaged vehicle. Instead of leaving it up to chance, take the step to get your car repaired as quickly as possible following a minor accident. The few days you will be without a vehicle will be worth it when you are able to receive thousands more for your vehicle down the road.

Taking your car to a dealer with an auto service station will help you get your vehicle looking like new again so you can retain its resale value. Simon Chevrolet in Woonsocket is one of the most trustworthy and efficient Rhode Island auto service locations. Technicians are trained in Chevy auto service and know how to get your car back to its original condition.