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Prep Your Car for Spring with These 5 Tips
With spring right around the corner now is the best time to start prepping your car for warmer weather. Whether you’re washing off a winter worth of salt and dirt or you’re finally bringing the summer car out of your garage, some spring cleaning is a great way to increase the life of your vehicle.
If you’re a DIY’er looking to get their ride ready for spring, this is one list of tips and tricks you won’t want to miss.
Wash it Down
Spring is the perfect time to give your car the much-needed love it deserves. To start, grab some soap, water and a lint-free chamois cloth. Once you have your supplies, start scrubbing away any winter grime, dust or debris. Don’t forget to get into all of those nooks, crannies and hard-to-reach areas.
Now that you’re done with the soap and water stage, give the car a quick once-over before wiping it down with your chamois cloth. Using a lint-free chamois cloth instead of air drying helps avoid any unwanted water spots on your vehicle.
If you don’t have much time or are looking for an easier method, an automatic car wash is a good option to consider. With just a few minutes of your time an automatic car wash will have your car ready for Spring in no time.
Check Your Tires
As spring approaches, it’s time to start checking the air pressure and tread depth of your tires. Having tires with solid tread depth and the proper air pressure not only keeps you safe, but it also ensures peak performance and fuel economy.
Tire air pressure can drop with temperature changes or from sitting for a long time. So, the first step is to ensure those air levels are set to your vehicle manufacturer’s specifications. You typically can find this information on the inside of your driver’s side door jam.
Next, you’ll want to check your tread depth. While there are a few methods of checking this at home, we always recommend having one of our certified technicians do this for you. This ensures that the tread depth reading is accurate so don’t have to buy tires before they’re ready to be replaced.
Inspect the Battery
Spring is an important time to inspect the battery of your car to ensure it is fully operational. A battery that has sat for a long time or been exposed to cold weather for long periods of time may not be as strong as it once was. That’s why we recommend testing your battery or having it tested as you begin to prepare your vehicle for spring.
It’s also wise to have a technician check your alternator and charging system annually. This will ensure that your battery is being properly charged which maximizes its lifespan. If your charging system or alternator aren’t functioning properly, it’s better to find that out ahead of time before you end up stranded.
Making sure your battery is ready for spring will go a long way in helping you stay safe and worry-free on the roads this season. You can have your alternator, battery and charging system checked by one of our certified technicians here at Waldorf Chevrolet. All you have to do is schedule an appointment online or call us today!
Change the Oil
One of the oldest pieces of car maintenance advice to ever exist, changing your oil is essential no matter what season it is. However, after a long winter or a prolonged period of garage storage, it is even more important to check and/or change the oil in your vehicle. This can help catch issues such as degraded oil or finding metal shavings in the oil pan.
If you don’t have the time or space to check your oil, don’t worry, our service center is full of certified technicians who can help. At Waldorf Chevrolet, we can check and replace your oil and filter, as well as perform a variety of other maintenance and repair services. All you have to do is call for an appointment or schedule your service online today!
Protect Your Paint
Preparing your car for the spring season is an important part of vehicle maintenance, and paint protection should be a top priority. Investing in paint protection film or a ceramic coating can help protect against scratches, dirt and other things that can cause paint damage over time.
Paint protection film acts as a physical barrier to any debris coming in contact with your paint, while ceramic coatings act as an extra layer on top of your paint that wears better against damage. Both are excellent options for protecting your car’s paint from the elements and road debris.
Are You Ready for Spring?
With the days getting longer and temperatures increasing, it’s time to put winter in the rearview mirror and prepare for spring. Make sure your car is ready for sunny drives and weekend trips by following our five favorite tips for prepping your vehicle for spring.
And remember, if you don’t have time to do this yourself, we have a team of professionals waiting to help you. Schedule your appointment online or simply stop by our location in Waldorf today!
A Brief History of Car Paint Colors
Believe it or not, the colors that you see on cars today are the result of a long and complicated history. In the early days of the automobile, there were only a handful of colors to choose from. But as technology progressed and society evolved, so too did the palette of available car colors. Today, there are literally thousands of colors to choose from. Here’s a brief history of how we got from there to here.
The first cars were available in black, white, and gray. Black was by far the most popular color because it didn’t show dirt and it was easy to keep clean. White was popular among rich people who wanted to show off their status. Gray was considered to be neither here nor there; it wasn’t flashy like white and it wasn’t as practical as black.
By the 1920s, cars were available in a wide range of colors, including green, blue, brown, and even red. But black continued to be the most popular color among car buyers. In fact, nearly 60% of all cars sold in the 1920s were black.
During the Great Depression, car sales plummeted and manufacturers began offering cars in a wider range of colors in an effort to boost sales. The most popular colors during this period were bright and cheerful shades like yellow and orange.
By the time the 1930s rolled around, metallic paint was all the rage. If you wanted to show that you were wealthy and could afford the latest trends, you’d slap some metallic paint on your car. It was a status symbol.
But it wasn’t just the rich who could get their hands on metallic paint. Companies soon began to realize that they could use aluminum flakes to produce the paint, which made it much more affordable. So even people who weren’t wealthy could have a car that shimmered and shone in the sun..
After World War II, car companies began offering more subdued colors like tan and beige. These colors were seen as more sophisticated and reflected the increased affluence of America’s middle class. By the 1950s, pastel colors like pink and mint green had become extremely popular among female car buyers.
In the 1960s, bright colors made a comeback as young people embraced psychedelic culture. This trend continued into the 1970s with the rise of disco culture. Common car colors during this period included gold, silver, and purple.
Today, there are literally thousands of car paint colors to choose from. You can find cars in every color under the sun, from traditional shades like black and white to more daring hues like candy apple red and neon green. And thanks to modern paint technologies, you can even get your car custom-painted to match your favorite sports team or alma mater’s colors. No matter what your taste may be, there’s sure to be a car paint color that’s just right for you.
From the earliest days of the automobile up until today, car paint colors have come a long way. What started out as a limited palette has now exploded into a veritable rainbow of hues. So whether you’re looking for something traditional or something that will make your car really stand out from the crowd, there’s sure to be a color that’s just right for you. Thanks for reading!
Now Available at Waldorf Chevrolet the 2024 Blazer EV Police Vehicle
Chevrolet has just announced it will be producing a fully-electric police vehicle, which will arrive in 2024 and be known as the Blazer EV PPV. This groundbreaking announcement from Chevrolet is welcome news to local cities and municipalities that have committed to reducing carbon emissions.
With policing being a round-the-clock job, it isn’t uncommon for police cruisers to spend thousands of hours idling while on duty, which unfortunately contributes significantly to carbon emissions. Thanks to the engineering team over at Chevrolet, police will soon be able to work around the clock without worrying about contributing to the ever-growing amount of carbon emissions.
Check out the following article provided by Chevrolet for more information on the 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV PPV.
As soon as the 2024 Blazer EV PPV is available for pre-order, Waldorf Chevrolet will be ready to help your department get its fleet started. For more information, give us a call at 301-861-0911.
5 Things to Remember When Driving an EV This Summer
Planning a fun road trip in your EV this summer? Then you’re going to want to read this! As an electric vehicle owner, you’re most likely calculating your battery’s range and planning the trip accordingly, so we put together some tips to help you out.
While battery technology in EVs has made substantial progress in recent years, they aren’t without their shortcomings. One of the most glaring weaknesses is the reduced driving range electric vehicle owners experience in extreme temperatures. Although the hot summer weather may work to reduce your battery’s range, we’ve put together a list of tips that can help you get the most out of your battery.
Before you head out on your summer journey, give this list of tips for summer EV driving a quick read — it’s sure to help!
Driving Range
While driving an electric vehicle in the summer, one of the most important things to remember is the difference in driving range. According to AAA, the driving range of an EV battery can be reduced by up to 17% in temperatures above 95º, which is a significant reduction in range. Due to this reduction in range, you should be paying close attention to your EV’s charge level during the summers to avoid any problems.
If you’re looking for a way to keep your range where it needs to be during the summer, a good way to do so is to use less air conditioning. Opting to drive with the windows down can reduce the load on your EV’s batteries which will help you get the range you’re accustomed to. It may seem crazy to opt out of using A/C in the summer, but when you’re spending less time at the charging station it all begins to make sense.
Find Some Shade
Keeping the interior of your car is always important in the summers, but when you own an EV its even more important. When you keep your EV cool, the batteries are able to function at peak capacity, providing the best range your car has to offer.
However, if you’re parked in the middle of an open field on a sweltering hot day, chances are you’re directly reducing the amount of range your car’s batteries have. This is why we recommend always parking in shaded areas when possible. When you can’t park in a shaded area, the best thing you could do is use a windshield shade to keep the interior of your EV nice and cool.
Whichever way you decide to keep your car cool, doing so is the best way to get the full range from your EV battery.
Try Not to Fast Charge
One of the most convenient ways to charge your electric vehicle is via rapid charging, however, this is also a great way to reduce the lifespan of its batteries. That is why we recommend skipping the fast charging station on hot summer days. While your EV is made and rated to handle fast charging, doing so as your sole means of charging is not the best way to elongate the life of your EV batteries.
When you do opt to fast charge, try to do it sparingly, and preferably in a climate-controlled space. If you own a house with a garage, charging your EV in that enclosed space is a great way to get a full charge in a reasonable amount of time. Since your battery won’t have to fight against the elements, charging your battery in a garage or climate-controlled space reduced charging time rapidly.
Precondition Your Cabin
As we mentioned before, keeping your EV cool is one of the best ways to ensure you get the most range out of its battery. A great way to do it is by preconditioning your interior, which on most EVs is done by remote starting your vehicle. With preconditioning, you can run the air conditioning before you ever set foot in the vehicle, which not only makes it comfortable for you but also increases battery range.
Most electric vehicles these days have a preconditioning or remote start feature, which makes life far easier during the summer. If you don’t have a preconditioning or remote start mode on your EV, you may be able to have an aftermarket remote starter installed which can function similarly to a built-in preconditioning mode.
Travel Light
A piece of advice that can be used year-round, traveling light is a fantastic way to get the most out of your EV battery. The more weight you have in your car, the harder its batteries have to work to get you going — effectively reducing the overall range. If you’re planning to hit the roads for a long trip this summer, make sure you’re traveling light in order to get the most out of your battery’s range.
In the event that you can’t travel with minimal gear, we recommend having a pre-planned charging strategy so you’re never stranded.
Visit Waldorf Chevrolet Today
Now that you’re an expert on driving an EV during the summer, it’s time for you to get out there and enjoy it! If you don’t have an EV to enjoy your summer in, that’s okay! At Waldorf Chevrolet, we have a huge selection of new and used electric vehicles for you to choose from. If you’re not ready to make the jump to an EV, we have plenty of traditional cars, trucks and SUVs to choose from here at Waldorf Chevrolet.
Don’t want to overpay for your next electric vehicle, then you need to visit us at 2298 Crain Highway today! Whether you’re looking for a great deal or great service, at Waldorf Chevrolet you’re sure to find it.
4 Facts You Should Know About the New Blazer EV SS
Earlier this month, Chevrolet finally gave the world a glimpse of the brand new all-electric 2024 Blazer EV. The latest addition to Chevrolet’s ever-expanding lineup of electric vehicles, the Blazer EV will be the brand’s answer for those looking for a midsize crossover SUV. It will be available in front-, rear- and all-wheel-drive as well as a variety of trim configurations.
While not much info has been released on the Blazer EV, one thing we do know is that it will be the first electric Chevrolet to don the famous “SS” or Super Sport badge. Excited to learn more about the 2024 Blazer EV SS? We can help! We’ve put together a list of four important facts about the all-new Blazer EV SS just for customers like you.
Once you’re done reading this list, make sure to stop by your local Chevrolet dealership — Community Chevrolet. At Community Chevrolet, you’ll find the largest selection of new and used Chevrolet vehicles along with the best prices in Meadville. If you want to get your hands on the all-new Blazer EV SS, Community Chevrolet can make that dream come true.
It’s Fast
Saying the new Blazer is fast, while a fact, is also an understatement. Straight from the factory, it comes equipped with 557 horsepower and up to 648 lb-ft of torque. That’s right, the 2024 Blazer EV will have more horsepower than your average Tesla without the exorbitant price tag.
While 557 horsepower is pretty impressive, that isn’t all the Blazer EV SS has to offer. Chevrolet has also included the newly developed WOW (Wide Open Watts) mode. which allows the driver to take full advantage of all 557 horsepower. When using WOW mode, you will be able to go from 0-60 in less than 4 seconds — now that’s fast!
Super Cruise Comes Standard
One of the most exciting features of the Blazer EV SS is Super Cruise, which will come standard on the car. Super Cruise is Chevrolet’s completely hands-free driver assistance feature which allows for hands-free navigation of roads throughout North America. This revolutionary technology allows you to enjoy a relaxing ride while your Blazer EV does the navigating for you.
Super Cruise is typically an additional package that is able to be added to most Chevrolet vehicles, however, the 2024 Blazer EV SS will be the first electric Chevy to come standard with it. With Super Cruise coming standard, the Blazer EV SS will be one of the most technologically advanced Chevrolets available.
Ready to drive hands-free? Then you need to stop by Community Chevrolet to reserve your 2024 Blazer EV SS today!
The First Chevy EV with an SS Badge
While Chevrolet has been in the electric vehicle game for a few years now, the Blazer EV SS will be the first in the lineup to don the famous “SS” (Super Sport) badge. With over 500 horsepower and a 0-60 time of fewer than four seconds, it is no surprise that Chevrolet has given the 2024 Blazer EV the honor of being its first SS-badged electric vehicle.
The Super Sport moniker was first introduced by Chevrolet in 1961 as a way to denote the signature performance package. Over the years, the SS moniker gained notoriety for its unparalleled performance and awe-inspiring design, making it one of the most desirable variations of a Chevrolet. Currently, the only available SS model is the Camaro, so the Blazer EV will be a welcome addition to Chevrolet’s performance line.
It’s Incredibly Safe
As a fictional grandfather once said, “With great power comes great responsibility” and the 2024 Blazer EV SS is no exception. The vehicle will come standard with Chevrolet Safety Assist, a suite of safety features designed to keep you and your family safe when on the road. This includes features such as Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Alert, Front Pedestrian Braking, Following Distance Indicator, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning and IntelliBeam.
Visit Community Chevrolet Today!
Are you ready to experience the thrill of the Blazer EV SS? If so, then you need to visit Community Chevrolet today. Whether you’re located in Meadville, Conneaut or Oil City, Community Chevrolet is the Chevrolet dealership for you! At Community Chevrolet, you can choose from the largest selection of new and used Chevrolet in the Meadville area.
If you’re looking for a great deal on your next Chevrolet, there is only one place to shop — and that’s Community Chevrolet. Whether you’re looking for the exhilarating 2024 Blazer EV SS or the eco-friendly Bolt, you’ll be able to find it at Community Chevrolet. Don’t overpay for your next Chevy, visit us at 16408 Conneaut Lake Road today!
4 Tips to Keep Your Car Looking Great
Whether you’re a car enthusiast or simply a daily driver, keeping your car clean is always a must. While it may seem like a daunting task to keep your car clean, it truly isn’t, especially with our Waldorf Chevrolet helpful car cleaning tips.
As with any chore, the more you keep up with cleaning your car, the easier it is to maintain. That is why we recommend regularly cleaning out your car, vacuuming it and keeping it free of trash and debris.
When it comes to keeping the exterior of your car looking great, regular washes and waxes will go a long way. Maintaining your car’s paint is a great way to ensure your vehicle won’t have rust or peeling problems. The best part is that it keeps your car looking great too.
With this list of helpful tips, you’ll have all the tools and knowledge you need to keep your car looking just as great as it did the day you bought it.
Clear it Out
The first step to cleaning your car like the pros is pretty simple — clear it out! Trash, debris, last week’s hamburger wrapper, you’ll want to get rid of it all. Clearing out the clutter from the interior of your car instantly makes it look better and a lot less “lived in”. Plus, if you had enough stuff in there, you could consider it as fuel savings to clean it all out.
Not only is interior clutter unsightly, but it can also be dangerous. If you’re ever in an accident, every item you have on the interior will be tossed around becoming a hazard to you. Plus, who wants to be coated in a two-day-old soda after getting in an accident?
Cleaning out the interior of your car is the easiest step, all you need are some trash bags and you’ll be clutter-free in no time. Once you’ve cleaned out the interior of your car, you can move on to our next step detailed below.
Scrub it Out
Just like the carpet and flooring in our homes, the floor mats in our cars can get pretty dirty. That’s why it’s important for you to pull them out of the car and give them a good scrubbing. Getting your floor mats nice and clean doesn’t just look good, it also will help cut down on airborne bacteria and irritants too.
Before you get to scrubbing, you may also want to give your floor mats thorough vacuuming. This will get the dirt and debris that has found its way into your car and been compacted down. Once you’re done vacuuming you can get to scrubbing.
You’ll want a good brush with semi-firm bristles to attack carpet floor mats, and a good cleaning agent as well. If you have rubber or “all-weather” floor mats, you can skip the vacuum step and just give them a good spray down with your chosen cleaning agent.
Vacuum it Out
If you have been following our steps thus far, you should have your vacuum out still, so why not tackle the rest of the interior with it? Thoroughly vacuum all carpeted surfaces in your car, including the passenger and rear-seat floorboards, especially if they see high traffic.
While you have the vacuum out, it’s probably a good idea to run it over any non-carpeted surfaces that accumulate dust and debris like the dashboard. You can even hit the vents as dust accumulates there and can cause allergies or irritation.
A solid vacuum job should leave your car’s interior looking fresh and smelling even better — so why not take the time and do your car a favor?
Wipe it Out
A final step to cleaning your car like a pro is wiping it out. Pick up some interior cleaning and detailing wipes and get to work! We recommend starting from the driver’s seat, hitting all the instrumentation and surfaces you touch most.
From there, we say no amount of attention to detail is too much. Dig into those cracks and crevices, don’t be afraid to really get in there. You can use things like Q-Tips to get into tight spaces like between the air vents or radio controls. Work your way throughout the front first, then make a move to the back of the car — don’t forget the cupholders!
Get to Cleaning
Now that you have read our list of tips to keep your car clean like the pros, it’s time to grab your cleaning supplies and get to work. Whether you’re going for full interior and exterior detail or keeping it simple with a wash and wax, this list of tips is sure to get you started on the right path.
If you’re not feeling the whole DIY car detailing process, that’s okay too, we can always help you out at our reconditioning department. All you have to do is book an appointment online or by calling 301-861-0911 — stopping by works too.
Chevrolet Now Makes Electric Cars — Check Out the Lineup
As the world makes the shift to electric cars, trucks and SUVs, many are left wondering if their favorite brand will follow suit. If you’re a Chevrolet fan, chances are you already know about the incredible lineup of electric vehicles available. However, if you aren’t a Chevrolet enthusiast and are looking to make the switch to an electric car, you might not know about the wonderful lineup of EVs available from Chevrolet.
That’s why we have put together this quick blog to give you a preview of the amazing lineup of electric cars that Chevrolet is rolling out. If you’re looking for a fun, reliable and affordable electric car, there is no better brand to consider than Chevrolet. Getting a great deal on one of Chevrolet’s new electric cars is pretty simple — all you have to do is visit Waldorf Chevrolet today!
Bolt EV
The first of Chevrolet’s latest electric car offerings, the Bolt EV is an all-electric car with incredible tech and an EPA-estimated range of 259 miles. With a 0-60 time of just 6.5 seconds, the Bolt EV is the perfect combination of technology, value and performance.
It is offered in two unique trim levels, seven eye-catching colors and comes with seating for up to five passengers. On the exterior of the Bolt EV you will find a modern look with sleek body lines and a futuristic grille. When you take a look at the interior you will find a power 8-way Driver’s seat, a sport-inspired steering wheel, and a variety of smart storage options.
Concerned about safety? The Chevrolet Bolt EV gives you peace of mind as it comes standard with Chevy Safety Assist — a suite of advanced safety features designed to keep you and your family safe. If that isn’t enough safety, you can also opt for HD Surround Vision and Adaptive Cruise Control.
When it comes to charging the Bolt EV, you will be able to do so in the comfort of your own home as Chevrolet offers installation of a Level 2 charger at no cost to new owners. However, we don’t anticipate you’ll be spending much time plugged in or at a public charging station as the Bolt EV offers a whopping 259-mile range on a single charge.
Bolt EUV
The first of its kind, the Bolt EUV is Chevrolet’s answer to an electric car that can fit a family. It is a spacious, five-passenger “EUV” — an electrified version of the SUV body style we all know and love. With seating for five and 39-inches of rear-seat legroom, the Bolt EUV has plenty of room for your family and all of their gear.
Just as the Bolt EV does, the Bolt EUV will feature One Pedal Driving, Sport Mode and standard Chevy Safety Assist. Along with these standard features, you can also choose from a variety of tech upgrades including hands-free driving and all-new Super Cruise™ technology. Interior upgrades will include available leather-appointed seats, heated & ventilated seats as well as an 8-way power driver’s seat.
There will be two trim levels of the Bolt EUV available, and if you’re willing to wait, a special Redline Edition is coming in early 2023. Opting for the Redline Edition will get you a jet-black interior with red accenting and stitching, 17-inch gloss Black painted aluminum wheels with red accents and an eye-catching black and red Bolt EUV badge.
When you buy a Bolt EUV, Chevrolet will cover the cost* of the installation of a Level 2 charger in your home. If you don’t have the ability to have a charger installed in your home — don’t stress — with an estimated range of 247 miles and dual-level charging you won’t ever find yourself without a charge.
Ready to get your hands on the Bolt EUV? Then you need to visit Waldorf Chevrolet located in Waldorf to test drive one today. When you shop at Waldorf Chevrolet not only will you get the best deal in Waldorf, you can choose from the biggest selection of new and used Chevrolets too.
Test Drive the New Bolt at Waldorf Chevrolet Today!
Are you loving the idea of driving a Chevrolet Bolt? If so, then Waldorf Chevrolet in Waldorf is the Chevrolet dealership for you. At Waldorf Chevrolet, you will find the biggest selection of new and used Chevrolet vehicles — including the exciting new Bolt lineup.
If you’re located in Waldorf, Marlow Heights or Lexington Park and don’t want to overpay for your next Chevy, there is only one place to go — Waldorf Chevrolet. Come on down to our location on 2298 Crain Highway to test drive the electrifying Chevrolet Bolt today!
*Offer available to eligible customers who purchase or lease a 2022 Bolt EV or EUV. Home charging installation promotion includes purchase and installation of a 240V outlet (NEMA 14–50 outlet and new 40-amp breaker in existing panel) from a GM selected vendor. Installation must be located at customer’s primary residence as reported in the customer’s vehicle purchase order. Additional costs to the customer may apply. Customers who do not meet parameters for a standard installation may be eligible for alternative charger offers. Neither a charging unit nor compatible charging cord are included as part of the standard installation. Bolt EUV comes standard with a dual level charge cord. See the Chevrolet Home Charging Outlet Promotion Terms and Conditions for important information and limitations.
Electric Vehicles are More Practical Than You Think. Here’s Why
As fuel prices soar and climate change becomes a larger public concern, the need for electric vehicles becomes clearer and clearer. Despite the growing need for electric vehicles, there is no shortage of negative rumors surrounding the vehicles. You’ll hear about “range anxiety” or how rare materials are used to build batteries for EVs. The thing is, you could say many of the same things about gas-powered vehicles — without all the benefits of an EV.
Whether you’re considering an electric vehicle or flat out refuse to adapt, this blog will show you just how practical electric vehicles are. By the time you finish this blog, you’ll be convinced that electric vehicles are the future of automobiles — and that future is now. Once you’re done reading, make sure to pay a visit to Waldorf Chevrolet located in Waldorf to test drive an electric vehicle today.
They Require Less Maintenance
One of the biggest reasons electric vehicles are more practical than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles is that they require less maintenance. With a gas-powered vehicle, you have to perform routine maintenance, such as oil changes and tune-ups — all of which are costly. Unlike gas-powered cars, electric vehicles require little to no routine maintenance and will only see a mechanic when it needs major repairs or servicing.
While electric vehicles will still need new tires, brakes and wiper blades throughout the year, you will still be performing less routine maintenance on them compared to a gas-powered vehicle. This means you’ll be able to save tons of money on oil changes, tune-ups, fluid changes and other routine maintenance that is associated with a gas-powered vehicle. With the money you save on both fuel and maintenance costs, owning an electric vehicle practically pays for itself!
Save on Fuel Costs
An obvious benefit to electric cars is the amount of money you will save by not purchasing fuel. If you own a fully-electric vehicle you won’t be hitting the local gas station to fuel up once a week. Instead, you’ll be able to “fuel” up at home as you can have a level 2 or 3 charger installed inside of your garage with relative ease. This means not only will you save money on fuel, but you’ll also save yourself some time as you won’t have to travel to the gas station.
Now, if you live in an apartment complex, charging your EV might be a bit more complicated if your complex doesn’t have on-site charging stations. In this case, you’ll have to figure out where the nearest charging station is and spend a bit of time charging up there. While the time spent charging may be a drawback, if you can combine it with other activities it is quite practical.
Whether you have the ability to charge at home will decide just how practical owning an EV is for you. However, as time goes on and EVs grow in popularity, more public charging options will become available and make owning an EV more practical than ever before. Even if you don’t have the ability to charge an EV at home, the amount of money you’ll save on fuel and maintenance is enough reason to make the switch.
Self-Driving Mode
A feature straight out of a sci-fi movie, self-driving technology is yet another reason owning an electric vehicle is more practical than you may think. We all know that driving is dangerous and combining human error with it only heightens the amount of risk — yet we all get behind the wheel each morning without a second thought.
With self-driving electric vehicles, that inherent risk of human error is eliminated, making the roads a safer place for everyone. Self-driving car technology allows you to commute completely hands-free as artificial intelligence makes driving decisions for you. You will have to remain alert at all times while using the self-driving mode just in case you need to take control of the vehicle at any time.
Not only do self-driving cars keep people and the roads safer, but they also make your daily commute easier than ever before.
Test Drive an EV Today at Waldorf Chevrolet
Now that you know just how practical owning an electric vehicle can be, it’s time for you to test drive one at Waldorf Chevrolet. At Waldorf Chevrolet, we offer the best deals on new and used Chevrolet vehicles — including the electrifying Bolt EUV. If you don’t want to overpay for your next car, you need to visit Waldorf Chevrolet today!
Buying a Used Car? Here are 5 Maintenance Tips to Make Life Easier.
Everyone knows that buying a used car is a great way to save money. However, the real key to frugal car ownership is performing your own maintenance at home. You can save hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars simply by performing your own routine maintenance on your vehicle.
When it comes to owning a car, there is no better way to ensure it has a long lifespan than with routine maintenance. However, not everyone is a trained mechanic — that’s why we put together this list of five valuable car maintenance tips that make your life easier. Whether you’re an expert mechanic or new to wrenching, you’re sure to find a useful tip on this list.
Keep Cardboard Boxes
While most people look at empty cardboard boxes as trash, us DIY mechanics look at them like they’re gold — and they kind of are. Cardboard boxes are perfect for repurposing in the garage since you can use them for a variety of jobs.
Don’t want to lay on a cold concrete floor? Put down a flattened cardboard box. Doing an oil change and don’t want oil on your garage floor? Easy solution: put down a flattened cardboard box. See where we’re going with this?
When you use cardboard boxes in your garage — you’re not just being savvy — you’re making a positive impact on the environment too. Why not save the environment while also saving your back from the cold concrete floor?
Get a Magnetic Dish
Staying organized is one of the most important parts of working on your car at home, that’s why this is one of our favorite tips to share. If you want to keep track of those pesky nuts and bolts that want to roll away on you, there is no better way to do it than with a magnetic dish.
A magnetic dish is exactly what it sounds like, a dish that is magnetized so you can easily store objects within it. You can attach the dish to your car so it is always within reach while you’re working, helping you keep track of things with ease.
If you’re looking for a magnetic dish, you can find them at your local hardware stores like Home Depot or Harbor Freight. Magnetic dishes are fairly inexpensive and their use will far outweigh any money you spend on it, so get one today!
A Little Light Goes a Long Way
Another great way to make life easier in the garage is to have a great light source. When you’re working on your car, things can get tough to see, especially when they’re covered in motor oil and dirt. That’s why we suggest having at least one good source of light handy in your garage at all times.
We recommend a headlamp as it’s a hands-free way to get light in the exact places you need it. However, if you don’t want to look like an angler fish, there are plenty of great shop lights out there to choose from. There are magnetic lights that you can attach to the car, old school “trouble” lights and fancy LED strip lights — all of which work great in the shop.
Don’t work on your car blind, stop by your local Harbor Freight and pick up a shop light today. No matter which light you choose, you’ll be glad you did it!
Take Pictures as You Go
Cars are complex pieces of machinery and while anyone can work on them, there are some best practices you should follow. This tip is an absolute must for any mechanic, be it experienced or not. If you want to make performing your own vehicle maintenance simple, taking pictures with each step is the best way to do it.
While you’re working on your car, keep your smartphone handy and snap pictures as you go. Chances are you’ll need to reference the pictures at some point during your repair, so it’s best to have them than not. If you’re ever unsure about how something goes back together, having a picture on hand really comes in handy.
Another bonus of taking pictures is being able to reference them down the line during other repairs. Need to take that manifold off again but can’t remember how? Just reference your tear-down photos from the last time and you’re off to the races. This simple tip will save you hours in the shop and endless frustration — so don’t forget it!
Replace Things in Pairs
Whenever you’re replacing an item your vehicle has more than one of, always replace all of them at once. There is no bigger annoyance than replacing an item on your car, only to have to do it all over again just a few short days or weeks later. That’s why we recommend always replacing things in pairs if they come in them.
Whether its brake pads, headlights, tires or anything else on a car — replacing both or all at once saves you time and frustration. The best part of this method is that you’ll never have to play the “when was that last replaced” guessing game!
When In Doubt, Visit Waldorf Chevrolet
Still unsure about your ability to work on your car? That’s okay, simply bring it to our service center here at Waldorf Chevrolet and our expert technicians will handle the rest. Whether you just need an oil change or a full engine rebuild, the expert technicians here at Waldorf Chevrolet can do it all.
If your car needs maintenance and you don’t want to do it at home, come on down to Waldorf Chevrolet and we’ll take care of it for you. At Waldorf Chevrolet, we make servicing your car a breeze. Simply stop by our service center or schedule an appointment ahead of time on our website — it’s really that easy.
Is Buying a Car in 2022 Worth It?
With the COVID-19 Pandemic coming to a close, consumers are once again demanding a large supply of new vehicles. One that cannot yet be fulfilled by the world’s manufacturers due to a massive shortage of semiconductors with no end in sight.
This shortage has dealerships all over the country scrambling to find a way to put customers behind the wheel of a new vehicle. With the ongoing shortage and rising prices, you may be wondering if now is the right time to buy a new vehicle at Waldorf Chevrolet, and this blog just may help you decide.
At Waldorf Chevrolet, the shortage isn’t stopping them from stocking the Waldorf, MD area’s best selection of new, pre-owned and certified pre-owned Chevrolet vehicles. Whether you’re looking for a new or pre-owned vehicle, Waldorf Chevrolet has plenty of options for you to choose from. Don’t let the shortage hold you back, stop by and see why Waldorf Chevrolet is Waldorf’s favorite Chevrolet dealer today!
Rising Prices, Dwindling Inventory
As the world slowly returns to form after the COVID-19 Pandemic, the global supply chain is struggling to keep up after such a long period of disruption. Back in 2020, with the world at the height of the pandemic, factories all over the world shut down to stop the spread, while subsequently stopping the production of goods.
During the global shutdown, inventory began to pile up on dealership lots all throughout the United States. With each passing day, the cost of insurance and interest on this sitting inventory totaled in the hundreds of thousands, causing dealership owners a slight panic. This time of uncertainty and panic was not here to stay long, as a bigger problem awaited dealership owners in the near future.
Fast forward a year to 2021, dealerships throughout the U.S. are struggling to keep up with demand for inventory as manufacturers struggle to produce new vehicles. This struggle is largely due to a semiconductor shortage that was sparked by the worldwide lockdowns that took place during the pandemic. With factories shut down and semiconductors not being made, new vehicles ceased to be produced and vehicle manufacturers found themselves struggling to fulfill dealership orders.
In response to the growing supply chain issue, dealerships began to turn their focus toward to used vehicle market, encouraging customers to sell their used vehicles or complete trade-ins. With used vehicles more desirable than ever and equipped government-backed stimulus checks, consumers throughout the United States flocked to dealerships to trade in their old vehicles in favor of new ones.
The rush by dealerships to find ways to supplement the shortage of new vehicles only further exacerbated that shortage, leaving dealerships in a pickle. Now dealerships have droves of customers clamoring to trade-in their vehicles, with no new vehicles to sell those customers, resulting in long waiting lists and disgruntled customers.
With this shortage, you may be wondering if now is the right time to start the search for a vehicle. The answer here at Waldorf Chevrolet is a resounding, YES! Despite the supply chain issues and a shortage of new vehicles, there has never been a better time to trade in your old vehicle in favor of purchasing a new one. Keep reading to find out why!
The Time Is Now
If you’re wondering if it’s a smart idea to buy a car in 2022, the answer is YES! Now, you may be doubting that because of what you just read above…but fear not! There truly has never been a better time to buy a new car, truck or SUV — and here are some reasons why.
Interest Rates
One of the biggest reasons you should be buying a car right now is because of the incredibly low-interest rates that are available. Right now, banks are loaning out money at record-setting rates in attempts to reinvigorate the struggling, post-pandemic economy. With rates as low as 0.99% APR available, it’s a no-brainer to buy a new vehicle right now as rates like this aren’t typically available.
If you want the best interest rates on the widest selection of new and pre-owned Chevrolet vehicles, stop by Waldorf Chevrolet located in Waldorf today!
Your Car Is Worth More Than Ever Before
Yeah, you read that right…your old car is worth more than ever before thanks to the shortage of new inventory. Typically, all cars begin depreciating the moment they leave the dealership lot. However, in this whacky post-pandemic economy, some vehicles have actually gained value as they aged.
As dealerships all over the country make a push to purchase used vehicles and increase trade-ins, the value of used vehicles has increased astronomically. That means there has never been a better time to purchase a new vehicle, as your trade-in is worth more than its ever been. If you’ve been tossing around the idea of buying a new car, you’ll want to act now before the value of your used car plummets back to pre-pandemic prices and you lose out on thousands.
You can get the best value for your used car, truck or SUV at Waldorf Chevrolet located in Waldorf, MD. At Waldorf Chevrolet, they have the Waldorf area’s best selection of new and pre-owned Chevrolet vehicles, so stop by and check out their inventory today!
Customize Your New Vehicle
Due to the semiconductor shortage, chances are you will be waiting on a new vehicle to be built and shipped to the United States before you buy it. This wait may seem like nothing but a hassle when in reality it is the best thing that could happen. Wondering why it’s the best thing that could happen? Keep reading to find out why!
While it may not seem ideal to buy a car that hasn’t yet been built, there are some advantages to doing so. A car that hasn’t been built yet means you can tailor to fit your exact needs and specifications. That means you can forego features you won’t use and add features you may not have been able to find on a specific trim of that vehicle. With the added flexibility that comes with ordering a new Chevrolet vehicle, it truly makes right now better than ever to buy a new vehicle.
Stop by Waldorf Chevrolet located in Waldorf to place an order for your new Chevrolet vehicle today!
Reasons You Should Avoid Buying a Car in 2022
This blog would not be complete without a good counterargument. So, let’s talk about a few reasons why you may want to avoid buying a new car, truck or SUV in 2022.
Seemingly Endless Waiting Lists
One good reason to avoid purchasing a new or pre-owned vehicle in 2022 is the waiting game. Let’s face it, nobody wants to spend their hard-earned money on a vehicle they have to spend months waiting for. However, the reality of this post-pandemic world is filled with long waiting lists for new vehicles of all shapes and sizes.
If you’re considering purchasing a new car, truck or SUV, make sure to inquire about the average waiting time at your dealership of choice. Another thing to keep in mind is delays do happen, especially with the rampant issues in the global supply chain. That being said, if you place an order for a new vehicle, be prepared to be patient.
Patience is a virtue they say, and if it’s a virtue that escapes you, perhaps its best to look into a pre-owned vehicle instead. If a pre-owned vehicle is something you would consider, Waldorf Chevrolet has plenty of them to choose from at their Waldorf location — stop by today!
Record-High Prices
An unfortunate consequence of the vehicle shortage has been the steep rise in the prices of new vehicles. With incredibly high demand and constrained supply lines, the cost of new vehicles is rising to record highs in a staggeringly short amount of time. Many new vehicles are flying off of dealership lots, sometimes for prices above the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP).
Although interest rates are at all-time lows, it still may be wise to refrain from purchasing a new car, truck or SUV in 2022 thanks to the rising cost of new vehicles. If you want to save money and can keep driving your current vehicle, it just may be best to wait out this influx of pricing on new vehicles.
Fewer Options
Yet another drawback to purchasing a new vehicle during this shortage is the lack of available options. Due to the semiconductor shortage, vehicle manufacturers are opting to only produce certain types and trims of vehicles, leaving less variety to choose from. This is being done in an effort to keep profits where they need to be while dealing with a constrained supply of vehicles and parts.
During this shortage, you run the chance of walking onto a dealership lot and not being able to find a vehicle to fit your wants or needs. Many vehicles that are being produced right now are coming loaded with options and features, which increases the cost and makes them less appealing to budget-conscious consumers.
If you’re considering purchasing a new vehicle in these times, keep in mind that you may not get exactly what you want in a vehicle. This can be prevented with a little patience, all you have to do is simply wait out this global semiconductor shortage which should be over soon. Getting the vehicle of your dreams is still possible despite the worldwide shortage of vehicles, so don’t lose hope!
The Answer Is
Now that both sides to the argument have been made, the answer to the question “Is Buying a Car in 2022 Worth It” still remains a resounding yes. This is because the power is still in the hands of the consumer, even with the reduced supply of new and pre-owned vehicles. Consumers are more powerful than ever in the post-pandemic world, and it’s because struggling companies need every dollar they can get. Keep this in mind when shopping for your next vehicle, whether it’s new or pre-owned.
If you’re still reading and have realized that now is better than ever to buy a new vehicle, then stop by Waldorf Chevrolet located in Waldorf, MD today! At Waldorf Chevrolet, they stock the Waldorf, MD area’s biggest selection of new, pre-owned and certified pre-owned Chevrolet vehicles and sell them at the best prices. Get the best deal on your next Chevrolet vehicle by shopping at Waldorf Chevrolet located in Waldorf today!
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