Blog

One necessary service that every vehicle needs from time to time is a tire rotation. But why should you bring your vehicle in to have the tires rotated? Here are some of the benefits you'll reap after having this maintenance performed by your Chevy dealer service specialists. 1. Even Out Wear and Tear Your tires will face differing levels of wear and tear over the course of operating your vehicle. For example, the front tires on a front-wheel drive vehicle are going to wear down much quicker than the rear tires. Rotating tires regularly evens out this wear and tear so that none of the tires malfunction before their time. 2. Decreased Noise and Vibration After getting your tires rotated, there will be less friction created by your tires as they move across the surface of the road. That will give you and your passengers a quieter ride to enjoy, letting you focus on conversation or music instead of being drowned out by external noise coming inside. 3. Better Fuel Efficiency Less friction on your tires also reduces the amount of energy needed to help your vehicle move. That means rotating your tires will also help your vehicle reach the highest level of fuel efficiency possible. Every driver can benefit from reduced costs at the fuel pump, so be sure to get your tires rotated as needed. more 4. Optimized Vehicle Handling Keeping your tires serviced will also improve your vehicle's performance. The greater traction that you enjoy will keep your tires gripped to the road even on tight turns or slippery surfaces. You'll have more precision in your drive, resulting in a more responsive and more engaging experience when you're behind the wheel. 5. Protect Other Parts of Your Vehicle Driving on bad tires can be damaging to other components of your vehicles as well. Rotating your tires helps to protect the wheels, wheel bearings, axles, suspension, brakes, and more. This simple service can benefit parts of your vehicle well beyond just your tires. 6. Create Safer Driving Conditions Losing traction on tires that have worn out their tread can create a dangerous situation on the road. By rotating your tires and making the most out of the tread available, you can reduce this risk. You'll also lower the chances of a tire blowout occurring, which is another dangerous situation that can cause you to lose control of the vehicle. 7. Save Time and Money Over Time While you might think you're saving money by skipping a visit to the service center, rotating your tires will ultimately save you money in the long run. You'll get a longer lifespan from your tires, reducing the frequency that you need to pay for a new set. The reduced chance of needing other repairs and improved fuel efficiency will add further savings. Get all of these benefits and more after your appointment with our helpful service team. Bring your vehicle to Blue Ribbon Chevrolet Buick GMC today! image via chevrolet.com

Your battery continues to work quietly, starting the engine each time and maintaining the electrical system when you park your car. Everything appears to be fine, until the day you try and start your car and the battery is dead. Batteries have a limited life, and as they age they start to show problems. In Sallisaw, OK when you see any of these signs come into your Chevy dealer and we'll install a new car battery. Random Multiple Warning Lights One sign of a failing battery is multiple warning lights suddenly lighting up on your dash. One minute everything appears to be working fine, and the next your dash is lit up like a Christmas tree with random warning lights reporting trouble. These sudden warning lights are usually followed by failures of random systems like traction control, cruise control, and your ABS brakes. It's even stranger when the next time you switch on the engine, all of the lights stay dark. If you experience this bizarre behavior with your dash lights, it's a sign that there is a problem with your electrical charging system. Our technicians can test the system and if your battery is the problem we can easily replace it for you. Loose or Damaged Cables The cables to the positive and negative terminals of your battery are securely connected. They transmit the electricity generated by the alternator to the battery to top up its power.  Due to your car's movement, it is possible for these cables to loosen in time and this breaks the connection to the electrical system. The cables can also suffer wear or corrosion, and either of these conditions can prevent your battery from recharging correctly. more Worn Out Battery A car's battery has a lifespan of approximately 3-5 years. As the battery ages, it becomes more difficult to charge and its recharge level also decreases. We advise that we test your battery at least once every three years. We will be able to determine its condition and can also give you an idea of how long your battery will last. Battery Light Comes On The battery light is an indication that there is a problem with your electrical system. The usual cause of this problem is a failing alternator, as the alternator is responsible for recharging your battery and powering your car's electrical systems. Your battery is a stable source of power in your electrical system, but when it starts to weaken it can also cause the light to come on. The reason the light comes on if your battery is failing is that your battery's ability to hold a charge is monitored. A weakening battery loses its ability to recharge properly. When a sensor detects that there is a problem with the battery's ability to sustain a charge, the light will illuminate. If your battery shows signs of failing, call us immediately at Blue Ribbon Chevrolet and we'll replace it for you.   image via chevrolet.com

The air filter plays an important role in the performance and efficiency of your car's engine. Filters keep contaminants away from the motor, thereby reducing the risk of damage from dirt, dust, and other debris. If you notice your car riding rougher than usual, you may need a new car air filter. Check out these six signs from your Chevy dealer in Sallisaw, Ok that you need to replace your air filter. 1) The Engine Is Sluggish or Hesitates While Accelerating A clogged air filter can cause your vehicle's engine to run poorly, resulting in slow, sluggish starts. The dirty air filter can also lead to difficulty accelerating and maintaining high speeds. The car's filter prevents dirt and dust particles from entering the engine. A clogged air filter forces the vehicle to work harder to get air through, and if the engine overheats, it can cause real damage. A clean air filter keeps your engine running smoothly, which can save you money in fuel and expensive repairs. 2) Your Engine Light Comes On Your car's engine light could be on due to many reasons, but it may be time to change your vehicle's air filter. If the air filter is blocked, the check engine light may turn on automatically. more 3) The Car Has Trouble Starting or Idles Roughly If you notice your car is idling roughly or making strange sounds, it may be due to a clogged filter. A dirty filter will cause your engine to work harder than it needs to, resulting in rough starts, black smoke spilling from the exhaust, and in some circumstances, engine breakdown. A car's air filter filters out impurities that can wear on the engine. Replacement of the air filter is usually recommended every 15,000-30,000 miles. Check your vehicle manual for your specific maintenance schedule. 4) There Is a Gas Smell, Especially When You Start the Car If you smell gas when you start the car, the culprit is normally the air filter. Gas smells are often due to unburned fuel, and one of the best ways to solve this problem is by replacing your engine air filter. 5) Dust and Debris Are on the Filter The air filter typically sits on top of the engine with a cover to keep dirt and debris from reaching the engine. New air filters are usually white, so if you see dust and debris on the filter, it is time to replace it. 6) Your Gas Mileage Has Decreased Dramatically If you notice a decrease in your gas mileage, your air filter may be the culprit. A clogged filter will cause the engine to work harder, which leads to increased fuel use. Even worse, the engine may not run properly with a dirty air filter. Your vehicle's air filter is a crucial component of your engine. If you notice any of the signs listed above, schedule a service appointment with Blue Ribbon Chevrolet. We'll examine your vehicle, fix any problems, and get you back on the road right away!   image via chevrolet.com

A problem with your brakes is no laughing matter. Because this issue can cause severe accidents, you should always opt for expert brake repair at your local Sallisaw, OK Chevy dealer. By going with a brand-name mechanic, you will always receive excellent service and genuine spare parts, so you don't risk having to return to the dealership for another repair. 1. The Brakes Are Crucial Not all car parts are of equal importance, and you might get away with suboptimal repairs on some of them. However, your brakes are crucial to your vehicle's function, and even a small fault can cause life-threatening accidents. In fact, around 300,000 incidents on the road are caused by faulty brakes every year, so this is a widespread and dangerous issue. For this reason, getting the best possible service and having your brakes fixed by top-notch mechanics is crucial. Whenever you notice a strange noise or a change in the way your vehicle brakes, you should get in touch with your dealer immediately and book a diagnostic test. They can then figure out what the problem is and make sure your Chevy is safe to drive. 2. Your Dealer Has the Best Technicians Although there are many talented mechanics out there, they don't all have a lot of experience with the Chevrolet brand. For this reason, you should always choose your local brand-name dealership when important repairs are coming up. The team members there work with vehicles similar to yours on a daily basis, so you can be sure that they will be the most experienced people for the job. What's more, your dealership will always sell you genuine spare parts that come from your vehicle's manufacturer. This means that they fit optimally with your Chevy, and you won't have to worry about their viability later on. In fact, you can expect your car to drive as well as before the issue cropped up because the new brake components will be exactly the same as the original. 3. You Will Save Money Brakes, like many other parts, are more expensive to fix if they have been neglected for a long time or repaired by an unqualified mechanic. That's why you can expect to save a lot of money if you promptly go to the dealership when a problem crops up. Additionally, you can expect any new parts as well as the workmanship to be covered by a generous warranty, which ensures that you won't have to pay for any extra repairs or a second brake replacement. more Once you're ready to sell on your Chevy, you'll be happy to know that an optimal maintenance plan and regular service of all your car's parts has slowed depreciation and allowed your vehicle to keep the bulk of its value. That way, you'll save even more because you will trade in your old vehicle for a much higher price. Don't delay having your brakes fixed when you notice a problem. Not only can you prevent an accident that way, but you will also save money in the long run. Call or message us now at Blue Ribbon Chevrolet to book your appointment with one of our experienced mechanics. image via chevrolet.com

It is vital to keep your car in good condition, and one service you should consider getting is new tires for your Chevy. If you haven't had them changed yet, now might be a good time! if you're hesitant about doing so, here are several signs you need to buy fresh tires at your Chevy dealer in Sallisaw, OK. Signs You Need to Buy New Tires at Your Sallisaw, OK Chevy Dealer Tread Depth Down to 2/32 of an Inch The tread on your tires should never be less than 1/16 of an inch (1.6 millimeters) deep. This is important to note since the deeper your tread is, the less likely you will get in a serious accident because of lousy traction. With a healthy tread, your car will grip the road better and will experience better traction. If you find yourself with tires that show shallow tread depth, it's high time to buy new ones. You See the Tread Wear Indicator Bar The treadwear indicator bar, also known as the TWI for short, is a thin piece of smooth rubber that runs across your tire. This acts as a visual reminder to get the tires changed. When more than two or three of these are apparent on a tire, it is a clear indicator that the tread is getting thin, and you have to head to your local dealer to have your tires replaced. more Your Tires Have Blisters The outer surface of the tire can weaken at times, resulting in blisters or a bulge that is prominently seen on the surface. This weak area on your tire can lead to a sudden burst. If you don't have your car serviced right away, you may find yourself in a world of trouble if the tire bursts while you're cruising on the interstate. To prevent a dire situation like this from ever happening, keep an eye out for tire blisters and bulges. Constant Shaking Shaking on unpaved roads is typical, but if your car shakes no matter how smooth the road, you may need to swap out your current tires for new ones. Shaking may indicate an issue with the tire's interior, but it can also be caused by poor alignment or balance. If you are experiencing this, it's best to bring your vehicle to your local dealer so that a professional can check your tires out. Cords Showing If the cords are already showing through the rubber of your tires, that is a pretty strong indicator that you need to buy new ones. You need to swap out the defective tire or tires as soon as possible as the continued usage of these is unsafe and can result in an accident. Failing Air Pressure If you notice that your tires are constantly losing air pressure, it could mean that you've lost their mounting seal or the valve stem has suffered damage. Other reasons for constant failing pressure could be the tire's age and punctures. Whatever the case may be, you should have your tires checked out by a professional. If you're not sure if your Chevy needs fresh tires, we're here to help! Contact Blue Ribbon Chevrolet Buick GMC today, and we'll help you find the perfect set of tires for your Chevy. Whether it's a new set, an upgrade, or just routine maintenance on what you already have, we can provide all that and more!

If you are a Chevy owner, you know that brakes are one of the most important parts of your car. They keep you safe and help to stop the vehicle when needed. But what if your brakes start showing signs of wear or damage? You may need brake repair at your Chevy dealer in Sallisaw, OK sooner than later! Here are five signs to keep an eye out for. 1. Clicking Noise In some vehicles, the brake pads are firmly held in place by a specialized holder. In other cars, these are held in place with clamps, bolts, or pins. Regardless of the method used, the main objective behind these designs is to keep the brake pads from moving about. If they become unfastened, they will begin to rattle. When this occurs, you will then hear a clicking sound when the brake pedal is pressed or released. 2. Brake Fade Brake fade is a technique commonly used when driving down a mountain slope or along a twisting road. However, if you use this technique regularly, your braking system can get damaged. Components will get heated as a result of forcing the brake pads to make contact with the rotors for an extended duration. Eventually, their capacity to generate the appropriate friction against each other diminishes with time and you'll soon notice that your automobile won't stop as quickly as it once did. more 3. Nose Pulls to One Side Brake pads on your vehicle don't always wear down at the same rate. Those on one side may become thinner than those on the other from time to time. If this happens, the automobile may pull a little to the left or right as soon as you apply the brakes. And if you leave this issue unchecked, you'll put your steering rack under needless strain. This is a problem you shouldn't just put off. Bring your car to your local dealer and have a mechanic investigate the problem as soon as possible. 4. Brake Pedal Vibrates Is the brake pedal spontaneously shaking when you step on it? It's possible that your brake pads are to blame. A specific type of resin is used to keep the brakes together, and as each brake pad wears down, the adhesive becomes hot and is smeared across the rotor. It will then form an evenly distributed layer in ideal situations. However, if the resin isn't properly dispersed, the pads may overheat and as a result, your brake pedals can vibrate uncontrollably 5. Squealing Noise Most brake pads nowadays have built-in "wear indicators." The only function of these gadgets is to produce a piercing noise as the brake pad wears down to a critical level, scraping against the rotor. The distinct sound signals the driver that his or her present brake pads are in danger of completely disintegrating. If any one of these signs sounds familiar to you, contact Blue Ribbon Chevrolet Buick GMC today by giving us a call at 855-608-2021. You can also visit our showroom at 1701 S Kerr Blvd in Sallisaw, Oklahoma, and our friendly staff will tend to your automobile's needs.

Your radiator is responsible for keeping your motor cool. When it begins malfunctioning, your motor begins overheating. This can result in serious damage to your motor. Luckily, if you pay attention to the warning signs, you can bring your vehicle in for a radiator repair at your local Chevy dealer before serious motor damage occurs. Here's what you need to know. Does Your Chevy Need a Radiator Repair at Your Local Chevy Dealer? There are several signs your radiator may be in need of a repair. Among these signs are white smoke coming out of your exhaust, a low coolant level, and an engine that is too hot. Here's a closer look. White Smoke Coming Out of Your Exhaust A clear sign that your radiator is in need of repair is white smoke coming out of your exhaust. Your exhaust will blow white smoke if you have coolant that has leaked into your combustion chamber. If you ignore this problem for too long, there won't be enough coolant to cool your motor. This will result in both radiator and engine damage. A Low Coolant Level You also may need work done on your radiator if your coolant level is low. Your coolant is very important for keeping your radiator operating efficiently and keeping your motor cool. It is advisable to check the coolant level in your reservoir monthly to catch leaks quickly. If your coolant level is low, add coolant to your vehicle before you drive it. If you don't have any extra coolant on hand, add water to the reservoir until you can buy some coolant. more An Excessively Hot Engine As stated previously, your radiator is designed to keep your motor cool. If your motor is overheating, there is something wrong with your radiator. This could be something as simple as a low coolant level. However, it also may be an indication of a much more serious problem that needs immediate attention. If your coolant level is fine, but your engine is getting too hot, schedule a service appointment right away. If your engine becomes too hot, turn the heat up in your car all the way immediately. This will take some of the load off of your radiator. As soon as it is safe to do so, pull your vehicle off of the road and turn it off. You should keep it off for at least 15 minutes to give your motor plenty of time to cool off. While your engine is cooling off, check your coolant reservoir to ensure there is enough fluid. If there's not, top it off. Sludge in Your Radiator Your coolant should be bright red, green, or yellow depending on the type of coolant you bought. If it looks rusty instead of bright, contaminants are building up in your radiator and forming sludge. This reduces the efficiency of your radiator significantly. There are several signs that indicate something wrong with your radiator, including a low coolant level, an excessive hot engine, and white smoke coming out of your exhaust. If you're noticing any of these signs, contact us right away at Blue Ribbon Chevrolet to schedule a service appointment. image via chevrolet.com