Like most individuals, you assumably don’t think about your car’s spark plugs all that often. And yet, changing them regularly is one of the best things you can do to keep your car running smoothly. Many people don’t realize this, but spark plugs can last anywhere from 30,000 to 100,000 miles – so it’s essential to know when it’s time to change. In this blog post, experts from Courtesy Buick GMC will discuss how often you should change your spark plugs and why it’s so important. We’ll also list down some tips on how to change them yourself if you decide to take matters into your own hands. So read on to learn more!Car Spark Plugs – What Are They?

To understand how often you should change your spark plugs, it’s vital to first understand what they are and what they do. Essentially, spark plugs are responsible for providing the spark that ignites the air/fuel mixture in the engine cylinders. This process starts the engine and keeps it running. Over time, however, spark plugs can become fouled or damaged, which can cause engine misfires and decreased performance. That’s why it’s necessary to keep an eye on them and change them when necessary. How Often to Change Spark Plugs?

The main factors that will affect how often you need to change your spark plugs are the manufacturer and model of your ride and how you drive it. For example, if you have an older car, you might need to change your spark plugs more often than someone with a newer car. This is because older cars tend to have less efficient engines that deposit more deposits on the plugs. On the other hand, if you drive your car mostly in stop-and-go traffic, you might need to change your spark plugs more spontaneously than someone who drives mainly on the highway. This is because stop-and-go driving puts more stress on the engine, which can cause the spark plugs to wear out faster. In general, most carmakers recommend changing your spark plugs every 30,000 miles or so. Regardless, it’s a good idea to check out your owner’s manual to be sure. A Bit About Buick Spark and GMC Plugs

Alright, suppose that you’ve got a Buick Lacrosse. In that case, you’ll want to use ACDelco 41-108 Professional Iridium Spark Plugs. These plugs have a service life of up to 80,000 miles, so you won’t need to switch them as often as other brands. And, if you’re a proud GMC owner, we recommend using ACDelco Double platinum spark plugs. These spark plugs can last up to 50,000 miles! So, you could go quite a while before having to replace them. Changing Your Car’s Spark Plugs

If you’re the do-it-yourself type, changing your own spark plugs is a relatively easy task that you can do at home. Here’s how:1. First, consult your car’s owner manual to determine which spark plugs are recommended for your model.2. Next, utilize a socket wrench to remove the old spark plugs. Be careful not to drop them, as they can be damaged easily.3. Once the old plugs are out, take a look at them. If they’re covered in soot or oil, that indicates that the engine is running too rich. On the other hand, if they’re white or burned looking, that means the engine is running too lean. 4. Now, it’s time to put in the new plugs. First, consult your owner’s manual to find the correct gap for the plugs. This is important as the gap affects how well the spark plugs will fire. 5. Once you have the new plugs in, start the engine and listen for any strange noises. If everything sounds normal, you’re good to go!If you’re having trouble with your engine, it might be time to check your spark plugs. Here at Courtesy Buick GMC, serving Homewood, AL, we can take a look and let you know if it’s time for a change. Give us a call or schedule an appointment online today!

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We all know that car stereos have come a long way in the past few years. Not only do they offer better sound quality, but they also now have more features than ever before. If you’re looking for a new car stereo, then you’ll be happy to know that there’s a new type of stereo on the market – the floating screen car stereo. These stereos are unique because they have moveable screens that float above the rest of the stereo components. This offers a sleek and modern look that will impress your friends and family. In this blog post, Courtesy Buick GMC will look at some of the best floating screen car stereos. We’ll also discuss their key features and what makes them stand out from the rest. Read on!The Best Ones That We Love!

Well, let’s get started!1. Dasaita Double Din Adjustable Screen

One of our favorite floating screen car stereos is the Dasaita Double Din Adjustable Screen. This stereo is impressive because it comes with a giant 7-inch LCD screen that’s adjustable. You can move it up or down to get the perfect viewing angle. The screen is also backlit, making it easy to see even in low light conditions.Another great feature of the Dasaita Double Din Adjustable Screen is its built-in Bluetooth function. This allows you to easily pair your phone with the stereo and make hands-free calls.2. Alpine ILX-W650

It is one of the market’s best floating screen car stereos. It has a nine-inch capacitive touchscreen display, and it’s compatible with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It also comes with built-in navigation, so you can always find your way around. The Alpine ILX-W650 features a powerful amplifier and high-quality speakers, so you’ll get superior sound quality no matter where you go. If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line floating screen car stereo, the Alpine ILX-W650 is definitely worth considering.3. Power Acoustick PTID-8920B

Power is a huge selling point for car audio. It’s no wonder that the Power Acoustick PTID-8920B is one of the best floating screen car stereos. Not only does it have a whopping 1,200 watts of power, but it also features an 8-inch subwoofer and multiple other speakers to give your car that booming sound you’ve been looking for.The Power Acoustick PTID-8920B doesn’t just sound great, however. It also looks terrific. With its sleek black design and floating screen, this stereo will turn heads when you drive by. Plus, it’s easy to use, making it perfect for any driver.4. Pioneer DMH-1500NEX

Pioneer is a name that is synonymous with high-quality car audio products. The Pioneer DMH-1500NEX is one of their latest and most incredible offerings. It’s a floating screen car stereo with many features to offer drivers. Among the most remarkable things about the Pioneer DMH-1500NEX is its large touchscreen display.This makes it easy to navigate the menus and controls, even when you’re on the move. The stereo also comes packed with Pioneer’s own AppRadio Mode, which gives you access to a wealth of music and entertainment options. If that wasn’t enough, the Pioneer DMH-1500NEX also supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay!Ending Note

That’s right, so your car can now have a floating screen stereo! Courtesy Buick GMC, serving Coalburg, AL, is proud to offer the latest and greatest technology when it comes to in-car entertainment. Whether you’re looking for something that goes smooth like Buick or powerful like the GMC, there’s sure to be a model that serves your needs. So go ahead and take a look – who knows, you may just find your perfect ride!

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Like most people, you probably think that hybrid car tires are the best choice for fuel efficiency. You might even think that hybrids have low rolling resistance, which is why they’re so popular among eco-conscious drivers. But is this really true? Or is it just a myth? In this blog post, Courtesy Buick GMC will look at hybrid tires and determine whether they truly have low rolling resistance. Keep reading to learn more!Rolling Resistance – What Is It?

What is low rolling resistance? In a nutshell, it’s a measure of how much energy is needed to keep a tire rolling. The lower the rolling resistance, the more smallish energy required, which means better fuel economy.Low-Rolling Resistance Tires – Basics You Need to Know

There are two primary types of tires on the market today:1. Standard tires have higher rolling resistance because they’re made from stiffer rubber compounds. This makes them less fuel-efficient.2. Low-rolling resistance tires are made from softer rubber compounds and have unique tread designs that make them more fuel-efficient.So, do hybrid tires have low rolling resistance? The answer is yes! Hybrid tires are specifically designed to be more fuel-efficient.Factors Affecting Rolling Resistance

A few different factors affect rolling resistance, including tire type, inflation pressure, and tread design. With that said, let’s look at each of these factors to see how they influence rolling resistance.1. Tire TypeThe first factor we’ll discuss is tire type. There are four main types of tires on the market: passenger car tires, SUV tires, light truck tires, and commercial truck tires. And of all these tire types, passenger car tires typically have the lowest rolling resistance. This is because they’re designed with fuel economy in mind.2. SUV Tires vs. Light Truck TiresYou might be wondering why SUV tires and light truck tires have higher rolling resistance than passenger car tires. The main reason is that they’re designed for different purposes.They are designed for off-road use and to haul heavy loads, respectively. They need to be more rigid and more durable than passenger car tires. This comes at the expense of fuel efficiency.3. Commercial Truck TiresCommercial truck tires have the highest rolling resistance of any tire type. They’re designed for the heaviest loads and most extreme conditions.4. Tire WidthThe next factor we’ll discuss is tire width. All else being equal, wider tires have lower rolling resistance than narrower tires. This is because wider tires have less contact with the ground, which reduces friction.Of course, there’s a trade-off. Wider tires are also heavier, which increases rolling resistance. They also cost more. So, it’s critical to find the right balance for your needs.5. Tire PressureThe final factor is tire pressure. Once again, all else being equal, higher-pressure tires have lower rolling resistance than lower pressure tires. This is because higher pressure tires have less contact with the ground, which reduces friction.Of course, there’s a trade-off here as well. Higher pressure tires are also more likely to get punctured, and they ride harsher than lower pressure tires. So, you’ll need to find a suitable equalizer for your needs.The Verdict

So, do hybrid tires have low rolling resistance? The answer is a little bit of both. While the technology has come a long way, and hybrids are definitely more efficient than traditional gas-guzzlers, there’s still some give and take when it comes to how much fuel you save.That being said, if you’re looking for an environmentally friendly option that will help you conserve energy while driving, hybrid tires are definitely the way to go. And at Courtesy Buick GMC serving in Lake Purdy, AL., we can help you find the perfect set of hybrid tires for your vehicle. Check out our tire finder today!

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Think your car is worth just what you paid for? Think again. You can increase your car’s value by making a few simple modifications. These mods will have even the most seasoned drivers turning heads from better fuel economy to a more intimidating look. So continue reading to discover ways you rev up your drive!1) Improve Engine Performance –

Regardless of how good your exterior looks, potential buyers will always want to know what’s going on under the hood. If you’re planning on selling your car, consider giving it a tune-up before putting it on the market. This will not only improve engine performance but also increase fuel efficiency. You can improve engine performance by adding modifications like a cold air intake or a new exhaust system.2) Infotainment –

Adding Bluetooth and WiFi technology to your vehicle will make it more attractive to buyers. Modern drivers want instant connectivity with their phones and devices for their cars. If your car doesn’t have this capability, you can add it by installing a head unit with these features.3) Interior –

Freshen your car by replacing the floor mats and seat covers. You can also add accessories like a sunshade or a steering wheel cover. The minor changes leave a significant impact on the overall look of your car. Comfortable leather seats and a well-maintained interior add a touch of class to your four-wheeler.4) Upgrade those Tires –

Worn-out tires negatively influence your driving experience and decrease your car’s value. Replacing old tires with a new set of high-performance wheels gives your drive the performance upgrade it desperately needs. Tires ensure efficient traction while keeping your ride stable, so invest smartly and consult experts before making the call.5) Rearview Camera and Parking Sensors –

One of the essential safety features in any car today is a rearview camera. Whether you’re parallel parking or backing out of the driveway, this tech-savvy addition makes it easier and safer. Many modern cars come standard with a rearview camera, but if yours doesn’t have one, it’s a valuable aftermarket investment. Parking sensors are another great safety feature to consider adding to your car. These tiny sensors emit an audible warning when you’re getting too close to an object, making it easier to avoid accidents.6) Upgrade the Rims –

Not only do rims make your car look more stylish, but they also improve performance. If you’re looking for a modification that’s sure to turn heads, then upgrading your rims is a great option.If you’re eyeing authentic car modifications and engine upgrades, Courtesy Buick GMC serving Hoover, AL, can help. We offer a variety of auto modifications that will have your four-wheeler running like new in no time. Schedule a service with us today and let our team add car modifications that bump your car’s value.

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Nothing beats the horrid feeling of hopping into a car on a hot summer day only to realize that the air conditioning is on the fritz. If your car’s AC has been acting up, Courtesy Buick GMC gives you five signs that indicate it needs some attention. Keep a watchful eye for these symptoms, and you’ll be able to get your car’s AC back in good shape before summer arrives in full force!1. No Air Conditioning –

If you turn on the air conditioning level system while driving and nothing happens, it’s a clear sign that there’s a problem. This could mean that the AC compressor is not working, the refrigerant is low, or another issue with the system. It could also imply damage to the cooling fans.2. Weird Smells –

If your car’s AC starts emitting strange smells, it’s time to take it in for a checkup. The smells could be due to mold or mildew, and they’ll only worsen if you don’t fix the AC immediately.3. Unusual Noises –

This one is easy to detect if you hear loud banging and rattling sounds when you switch on the AC; Houston, you have a problem. Like other problems, debris or leaves could clog your unit resulting in these weird sounds. Or, it could signify something more serious, like your unit breaking down. Take your vehicle to a reliable car servicing center to stay clear of severe damage.4. Water Stains –

You’ll see water draining from your car’s bottom after switching out the AC for a while. This is a clear indication that all’s not right with your AC. There’s likely a leak in your unit, so you’ll want to get it fixed before the problem worsens.5. Low Cooling Power –

If you feel like your car’s AC isn’t cooling you down as much as it used to, it means there’s something wrong. It might not be anything significant, but it’s worth taking your vehicle for a checkup if it keeps happening. It can be pretty annoying when you’re driving under intense heat.6. AC Leaks –

One of the most evident signs your AC needs a fix is when you start seeing water coming out from it. This is usually a result of a leak in the system, so you’ll want to take care of it immediately. Not only is this inconvenient, but it can also damage your car in the long run.If your car’s AC is starting to act up, it’s essential to take action sooner rather than later. Courtesy Buick GMC serving Birmingham, AL has the solution for all your vehicle air conditioning problems.Schedule a maintenance service with our team as soon as you notice any of the abovementioned signs.

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There’s no doubt about it—a car is a significant investment. Not only do you have to fork out a lot of money to buy one, but you also have to maintain it and keep it in good condition so that it lasts as long as possible.Servicing your car regularly at Courtsey Buick GMC can help you achieve your vehicle maintenance goals. But what goes into a car servicing process? This blog post takes a closer look.1) New Engine Oil and Filter

Most car servicing begins with changing the engine oil and filter. The oil and engine filters ensure your engine runs smoothly and preserve your vehicle’s life. The engine oil regulates your engine’s temperatures, lubricates, and protects it to ensure all moving parts remain in good condition.The engine oil prevents rusting and corrosion of metal surfaces. Car servicing experts suggest replacing engine oil every six months or after 3000 miles to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly.2) Check and Top-Up Fluids

You need to check and top the car’s fluids regularly to ensure it runs smoothly. This includes the engine oil, brake fluid, power steering fluid, radiator coolant, and windscreen washer fluid. Decreasing car fluids levels can exert additional pressure on vehicle components leading to excessive damage.3) Tire Inspection

Poorly inflated tires can wear down more quickly and cause handling problems. Uneven tire tread can also decrease braking performance and hydroplaning in wet conditions. Driving on low-pressure tires puts unnecessary strain on other components.4) Check Suspension

The suspension system helps keep your car’s tires in contact with the road. It is essential to check the suspension for worn parts and damaged components. Worn suspension parts can result in a loss of control while driving. If you feel excessive bouncing, swaying, or rocking while driving, it may be an indication that your suspension requires repair or replacement.5) Brake Inspection

It is essential to inspect your brakes frequently. Worn brake pads can decrease braking performance and lead to costly repairs down the road. A loud ungainly screeching sound when you hit the brakes indicates worn brake pads. If your brakes feel “squishy” or it takes a long time to stop the car, you will likely need new brake pads.6) Battery Test

A battery that is not performing optimally can cause several problems with your car. A weak battery can result in a car that won’t start, while a faulty battery can cause electrical problems. A usual car servicing routine includes a battery test to detect hidden battery evils and potential issues that can wreak havoc.At Courtsey Buick GMC, we understand the importance of car servicing and take great care in completing each step. Our team is experienced and knowledgeable about all things automotive, so you can rest assured that your car is in good hands. Schedule your car’s servicing in Graysville, AL today, and let us show you what sets us apart from the competition.

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Regular car maintenance and service is one of the most crucial things you can do to keep your vehicle running smoothly and prolong its life. By doing some simple tasks like changing the oil and filters, checking the tire pressure, and flushing the cooling system, you can avoid costly repairs down the road.In this blog post, Courtsey Buick GMC will discuss how regular maintenance can save you some money. So, whether you’re a novice driver or a serious car-freak, be sure to read on for some valuable information!1. Regular Maintenance Can Catch Minor Problems Before They Get Big!

One of the biggest reasons to keep up with routine car maintenance is to catch minor problems before they become more significant. Car repairs are not cheap; and catching a minor issue in the early stages makes it much easier to repair than if it has gone unchecked for months or even years. Car maintenance will give you a feeling of security and enjoyment on the road, rather than worry.2. Car Maintenance Keeps Your Car Running Efficiently

One of the biggest reasons to keep up with routine car maintenance is to keep your car running efficiently. Car repairs are expensive, and if something goes wrong under the hood, it may put a damper on your plans for that big trip you’ve been dreaming about or another shopping spree at the mall. Car maintenance saves you money in more ways than one.3. It Can Improve Your Car’s Gas Mileage

When you keep up with car maintenance, it can improve your gas mileage. Car repairs may cause the car to use more fuel than necessary which means you’ll spend more money on gas. It is always best to have the oil changed regularly and maintain proper tire pressure (and, of course, replace old tires when necessary) instead of letting these minor problems become large ones that could end up costing thousands of bucks!4. Prolongs Your Car’s Life

Car repairs can be extremely costly and something you don’t want to put off, but what about preventative car maintenance? Car servicing is an expense you can easily skip if it doesn’t seem necessary. Well, the truth of the matter is that it’s imperative! Car servicing extends the life of your vehicle by preventing minor problems before they become big ones that are much more costly to fix!5. Regular Car Maintenance May Save You from Accidents

No one wants to be in an accident. They can happen with anyone at any time. Not only can they lead to severe injuries or even fatalities, but even minor accidents can be very costly! Preventative car maintenance may just help you avoid this expense altogether by maintaining your car’s health so that anything catastrophic doesn’t occur unexpectedly.The Takeaway

So, there you have it – a few good reasons to keep up with your regular car maintenance. Not only will you end up saving some serious bucks in the long run, but it can also help keep you and your family safe on the road. If you’re due for a service, be sure to schedule one with us at Courtsey Buick GMC, serving Homewood, AL, today.We look forward to helping you take care of your vehicle!

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