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Top 5 Driving Myths Debunked: Separating Fact from Fiction
As drivers, we all have our beliefs and habits on the road that we take for granted. Many of these come from the driving lessons we learned from parents, friends, or driving school instructors. However, not all of these beliefs are necessarily true, or the best practice on the road.
In this blog, we will debunk five of the most common driving myths in America and provide you with the facts. By the end of this post, we hope you will have a better understanding of safe driving practices and improve your overall driving experience.
Myth #1: It’s safer to drive with your hands at the 10 and 2 o’clock positions.
Many of us learned the traditional way of holding the steering wheel at 10 and 2 o’clock. However, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends holding the wheel at 9 and 3 o’clock for better control, especially in case of sudden turns or steering movements.
The 9 and 3 o’clock positions allow for a better grip of the wheel, making it easier to turn it in any direction if necessary. Additionally, this position provides the driver with increased space between their arms and chest in case of an accident, which can help reduce serious injuries.
Myth #2: It’s safer to drive slower than the speed limit.
While it’s important to obey speed limits, driving too slowly can also be dangerous. It can lead to impatient drivers behind you, causing them to make reckless maneuvers and potentially cause accidents. In some cases, driving too slowly can be a violation of the law, so make sure to maintain a speed that is reasonable and safe.
Myth #3: Four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive makes you invincible on the road.
While 4WD or AWD can provide better traction in certain driving conditions (such as on snow or ice), it can also provide a false sense of security to the driver. It does not make you invincible on the road and does not improve braking or steering ability. Always drive according to the road conditions and adjust your speed when necessary.
Myth #4: Red cars are more likely to get pulled over by police.
This is one of the most widespread urban legends in the driving community, but there is no evidence to back it up. The color of your car does not impact your chances of getting pulled over. Police officers look for safety violations, such as speeding, running red lights, or failing to use turn signals, regardless of the color of your car.
Myth #5: Using your phone with your hands-free device is safe while driving.
While using a hands-free device to make calls or send texts is legal in many states, it is not always safe. Even if your hands are on the wheel, your attention is still divided between driving and the conversation.
Research shows that any form of phone use while driving can be distracting and increase the risk of accidents. Whenever possible, avoid using your phone while driving or pull over to a safe place if you need to make a call.
Driving Myths Debunked
Driving myths can create confusion and impact safe driving habits. By debunking these five common driving myths, we hope to help drivers understand the importance of adopting safe driving practices, following traffic laws, and staying focused while on the road.
Remember to always drive defensively, be aware of your surroundings, and be mindful of potential hazards. Safe driving is everyone’s responsibility.
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!
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!
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.
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.
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