Even before you start looking for a new or used car, truck, or SUV that’s right for you, it’s important to talk financing.

Most people are surprised to learn how competitive GM financing is with interest rates comparable to local banks. In fact, our Harrisonburg VA car dealership offers some of the most competitive rates in the area.

But it’s not just competitive interest rates that make GM financing worth a serious look.

What Makes GM Financing So Attractive
 
Getting the best interest rate you can for your car loan is one of the most important aspects of your loan terms.

At Joe Bowman Auto Plaza, we’ll work with you to find the very best rate possible, but we’ll also work to find you the best loan terms.

We’ll fully explain our car loan agreement making sure you understand everything before you commit to the loan.

Plus, we offer simple interest loans, a huge reason to consider auto financing with us. With a simple interest loan, you can make extra payments on the principle so that you pay off your loan quicker.

An early loan payoff looks great on your credit score, earning you a higher score. If choose not to do that, paying off your loan on time also reinforces a good credit score.

Bottom line. The choice is yours, not ours.

A Bit More About GM Financing and Your Credit Score
 
As with any lending institution, your credit score plays a big role in the interest rate available to you.

That’s why we recommend you check your credit score through Experian, Equifax, Credit Karma, or any number of other reputable credit score companies.

Knowing your credit score will allow you to know what to expect from your GM financing plan or any other bank.

The better your score, the better your rate!

3 More Reasons GM Financing Makes Sense
 
If you’re like most people who buy either a new car or a used car, once you’ve made the decision, you’re ready to take your vehicle home.

You just want the loan process to be simple and easy. With our Harrisonburg dealership, it is.

Here’s how it works:

1. Sit down with our finance team. We’ll find the best rate and terms for you.
2. We’ll process the paperwork while you’re in the office.
3. Take home your new vehicle in a matter of a couple of hours.

If, however, you decide you want to use your own bank, we can still process the paperwork for you.

However, it does take a little longer because we’ll need to fill out your bank’s paperwork plus our own.

GM Financing for Your New Car and Your Used Car at Joe Bowman Chevy
 
Besides the advantages listed in this post on dealer financing, Joe Bowman Auto Plaza offers some other benefits after the sale.

We always want to earn your loyalty! That’s why vehicles bought from our Harrisonburg car lot get some extra perks:

• Preferred service scheduling
• Lifetime FREE car inspections for as long as you own the vehicle
• Courtesy transportation when your vehicle is in the shop

We don’t want to just sell you a new Chevrolet or a quality preowned vehicle, we want a customer for life.

That’s how seriously we take your business. Stop by or shop online. We’re ready to assist you whenever you’re ready!

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

It’s been 70 years and eight generations in the making, but the quickest accelerating Corvette ever built is here. The 2024 Corvette E-Ray is the hybrid sports car that’s a super car of contrasts—exceptional performance and practicality.
The E-Ray is a sports car first on many fronts. It doesn’t just have all-wheel drive, it has e-AWD, an electrified all-wheel drive system that works in tandem with its LT2 V-8 engine.
 
Hybrid Powertrain: The Most Revolutionary Corvette Ever Built
 
In 2020, Chevy introduced a mid-engine layout with the C8 generation. Now with the new all-wheel drive hybrid variant, Chevy changes the game again.
 
This electrified all-wheel drive system means the E-Ray is not just a performance vehicle. You can drive it in all four seasons. Dare we say, the E-Ray is a grand touring vehicle and a practical, mid-engine sports car?
 
The 495-horsepower version of the 6.2 liter pushrod V-8, inherited from the Stingray, is known as the LT2. This engine feeds the rear wheels through an eight-speed dual clutch automatic transmission.
 
In the front is an electric motor with 160 HP. The drive pack is about the size of a 12-pack. The electric ability allows you to convert to Stealth mode driving up to 45 mph for the first 3-4 miles with barely a sound made. It’s great for exiting neighborhoods without disturbing the neighbors.
 
Together with the gas engine, the E-Ray has a combined horsepower of 655.
 
The cool thing is that the electrified front axle gives that extra performance boost without adding too much weight to the car.
 
E-Ray and E-AWD
 
With AWD, the E-Ray has more traction, and that means better acceleration. (Did we mention the E-Ray goes from 0-60 in 2.5 seconds?) The V-8 plus the electric drive motor to power the front wheels creates unparalleled traction!
 
And Mother Nature? With the electrified AWD capability, the E-Ray is always up for a challenge. Rain, snow, ice, or mud.
 
How? Chevy paired Z07-grade stoppers with Michelin’s Pilot Sport all-season tires. The hips of the E-Ray are huge, 3.6” wider than the Stingray. But it also comes standard with carbon ceramic brakes which helps combat the extra weight added from the motor and the battery.
 
But the E-Ray wasn’t built just to take on Mother Nature. This sophisticated super car has technology inspired by the C8.R race and Le Mans prototype. The Corvette E-Ray was made to take on the greatest cars in the world!
 
Battery Powered Corvette
 
Yes, it’s a hybrid but no it’s not a plug-in hybrid.
  
The small 1.1-kWh lithium-ion battery powers the Corvette E-Ray’s permanent synchronous AC motor. A separate 12-volt lithium-ion battery works to support the start/stop function and other accessories.
 
This tiny battery, about 100 pounds, is the reason you’ll never have to plug-in. Designed to rapidly charge and discharge itself, the amount of electric assists varies with the six drive models.
 
Tech You Can’t Live Without
 
The E-Ray has a standard Head-Up display to keep you informed about your Vette’s battery power. Not to mention a host of performance parameters.
 
There’s an E-Ray App, located on the screen which gives you a quick look at more performance data.
 
There’s also available 14-speaker Bose Performance Series system and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
 
A Sports Car Like No Other
 
Chevy has always led the way in auto innovation, and the 2024 Corvette E-Ray continues that tradition. A spectacular performance sports car with year-round practicality.
 
If you’re like us, you can’t wait!
 
Joe Bowman Auto Plaza is a family-owned car dealership in Harrisonburg, VA. We’ve been helping neighbors like you for 60+ years find the new car or quality used car that fits your lifestyle and budget!

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

When Chevy says, “Welcome to the big league,” they mean it. And with good reason. The 2023 Chevrolet Suburban was named Best Large SUV for Families by US News & World Report two years running.

But what makes the Suburban the vehicle that helps you live your biggest life?

Take a look.

2023 Chevrolet Suburban: Spacious Interior
Families need room and the Suburban gives it to them! Its spacious interior includes generous second and third row leg room, allowing all passengers to feel like they are riding in first class.

And cargo space? The 2023 Chevy Suburban has best-in-class max cargo volume of 144.7 cubic feet. You can also use a cargo management system as well as a hands-tree power liftgate. No matter what you’re stowing, these features simplify your storage needs.

But it’s not just about space with a purpose. Comfort is equally important. Seating up to nine, the Suburban’s Premium Smooth Ride suspension offers passengers a smoother ride by isolating the cabin from rough pavement.

Always important, intelligent technologies keep you connected while on the road. Also available is a 10.2” diagonal screen paired with available Google Built-in so that you can get things done with voice commands.

Google Built-in—with Google Assistant—helps you to set reminders, make phone calls, change the temperature, and more. All hands-free.

With all that room as well as a premium cabin, this deluxe large family SUV feels like a private suite!

2023 Chevrolet Suburban: Exterior Features

The 2023 Chevy Suburban offers up to 13 available camera views making it easier to pull into tight spaces, hitch a trailer, or back into your garage. Here’s the breakdown:

3 Available Hitch Views

• Hitch View
• Surround View
• Rear Top-Down View

6 Available Driving Views

• Transparent Trailer View
• Front Camera View
• Pic-in-Pic Side View
• Rear Camera Mirror
• Rear Trailer View
• Inside Trailer View

4 Available Parking Views

• • Rear Camera View
• • Rear Side View
• • Front Side View
• • Front Top-Down View

Loaded with innovation and sophistication, drive with confidence and a stronger feeling of security!

2023 Chevrolet Suburban: Towing

Classy and hardworking, the Suburban is all about power and not afraid to show it. The 2023 model can haul up to 8,300 pounds of cargo. And yet, it can go from a full stop to highway speeds with ease.

With Chevy’s efficiency-enhancing Dynamic Fuel Management technology, you’ve got both capability and efficiency.

2023 Chevrolet Suburban: Safety

Safety is priority one with Chevrolet, and the Suburban is no exception. Standard on the 2023 Suburban is Chevy Safety Assist.

This is a suite of advanced safety features to help you drive with more peace of mind.
They include:

• Forward Collision Warning
• Pedestrian Detection
• Automatic Emergency Braking
• Lane Departure Warning
• Lane-keeping Assistance
• Following Distance Indicator
• Automatic high beam headlights

6 Suburban Trims to Choose From

Chevy offers six models to choose from: The LS, LT, RST, Z71, Premier, and High Country. Find the one that’s right for you!

Always beautifully appointed, the 2023 Chevrolet Suburban is both luxurious comfort and practical. Take a test drive with us today and you’ll see why US News & World Report named it the Best Large SUV for Families.

When you’re ready to buy a new car, SUV, or truck, turn to Joe Bowman Auto Plaza. We’ve been helping families find the right vehicle for their lifestyle and budget for 60+ years. Learn more about us here.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Want to turn your smartphone into a mobile command center for your vehicle? You can with the myChevrolet App.
 
Seriously, just about everything can be downloaded at the tip of your finger. From scheduling service visits at our Harrisonburg, VA car dealership to locating your vehicle in a busy parking lot.
 
But that’s just the beginning. Here are 10 great features of MyChevrolet app.
 
Schedule Car Service
Need to schedule service for your Chevy? Do it all from the app. Just set your preferred dealer and your appointment time. The app also lets you check for recalls and the next required maintenance for your vehicle.
 
Locate Your Vehicle
This is a handy feature! If you’ve ever forgotten where you parked your vehicle, Vehicle Locate can help you find it, including if your vehicle is stolen. Use the app to locate your car on a map, set boundary alerts, and to set/share custom notifications for departures and arrivals.
 
Remote Key Fob
If properly equipped, the remote key fob allows you to lock and unlock doors and start and stop your vehicle. Want to warm up your car or cool it off? Do it remotely with the key fob!
 
Wi-Fi® Hotspot Management
When you buy a new Chevy at our dealership, you get a free month of a data plan through OnStar. Once that free trial ends, you can elect to purchase a data plan. This will allow you to manage your Hotspot name and password and purchase any available data service plans if you think you need more or less than what you currently have.
 
Send Trip Details to Navigation
With myChevrolet app, pre-plot your trip by sending trip details to your vehicle’s built-in navigation system.
 
Marketplace Offers
Through the Marketplace, find rewarding experiences and offers from the merchants and brands you love. And you can shop for Chevy accessories, too.
 
Smart Driver
The myChevrolet app can keep a monthly score of how well you’re driving. You can gain insights into your driving skills and how it may affect your vehicle. Potentially, you could qualify for insurance discounts.
 
Check Vehicle Status
The vehicle status feature lets you check tire pressure, oil life, odometer, and fuel range. All from your smartphone. Find out how your car is performing, and whether you should get a function or part checked out by the Joe Bowman Auto Plaza service team.
 
How-To Videos
Learn all the features of your vehicles, the ins-and-outs. These videos can show you how to connect to the infotainment system, as well as other features you might not even know your vehicle had!
 
MyRewards
When you enroll in the Chevrolet myRewards program, you can manage your points and use them towards accessories, services, and even the purchase or lease of a new vehicle.
 
Personalize Your Infotainment System
The myChevrolet mobile app lets you personalize your infotainment system just the way you want it. Program your radio faves as well as your preferred In-Vehicles Apps—all from your smartphone.
 
When you’re ready to take advantage of all of the benefits of owning a new Chevy offers, turn to the pros at Joe Bowman Auto Plaza. We’ve been helping neighbors in our community for 60+ years find the right vehicle for their lifestyle and budget!
 
Visit our Harrisonburg VA car dealership or shop online.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Buying a car, whether it’s new or used, is a big decision. There are so many factors to take into consideration before you even step foot into the used car-buying world.

• Your budget—How much car can you afford to buy?
• Your credit—The better your credit history, the better your interest rate for the loan term
• Length of a car loan—The longer the loan the more interest you’ll pay
• Get pre-qualified for used car financing
• Research car insurance

Once you’ve done your financial homework, you’re ready to step into the used car world. That’s really when it can be overwhelming!
There are thousands of cars for sale, many of them listed through private buyers. But here’s what’s surprising. More and more consumers are turning to car dealerships like Joe Bowman Auto Plaza to buy their preowned vehicle.

Why Used Car Buyers Turn to Our Harrisonburg VA Car Dealership

While there are benefits to buying a used car from a private seller, consumers are now more aware and more appreciative of the tremendous benefits of buying from the Joe Bowman Chevy Harrisonburg VA car dealership.

A private sale can be quick, but it also requires that you do all the legwork in transferring the title from the previous owner to the new owner.

But that’s only one small reason why used car buyers turn to us. Actually, there are eight big benefits to buying a pre-owned car, truck, or SUV from us.

A Solid Good Car Dealership Reputation 

We’ve been in business 60+ years in Harrisonburg, VA. You don’t stay in business for more than half a century without winning the confidence of the public.

Joe Bowman Auto Plaza is known for its fairness in pricing and for working with individuals and families to find the best fit for their lifestyle and budget.

Quick Loan Process

Our loan process is quick, especially if you choose dealer financing. Even if you choose to work with your own bank for the loan, it will just take a little longer to process the paperwork.

We are committed to finding you the best interest and term rate based on your credit history. Our team works diligently to accommodate you.

Vehicle Information is Verifiable

As a Carfax Advantage dealership, the history of the vehicle you’re interested in buying is available with the push of a button.

You don’t have to take our word for it. The vehicle’s history is readily available for you to review.

75-Point Used Car Inspection Checklist

Before we will list any used vehicle for sale, it must pass a rigorous 75-point inspection, or we won’t list it for sale.

Our technicians thoroughly inspect the vehicle, looking for and addressing any issues, promptly resolving them.

To the very best of our ability, we make sure the vehicle is 100% sound and that all the features work beautifully.

30 or 90-Day Used Car Warranty

We back up that commitment to safety with either a 30 or 90-day warranty, depending on the mileage and year of the vehicle.

With a private sale, you don’t have any of the above-mentioned benefits. Once the deal is done—for better or worse—you own the vehicle and its problems.

Negotiating is Part of Our Business

With a private sale, you may find the seller is rigid about the asking price. You either pay the price asked or you walk away.

With our car dealership, negotiation is just part of our day. We know that no vehicle is perfect, so we will listen and work with you as much as possible.

We Don’t Want Just Your Money

With a private sale, the seller wants the money and then to move on. At Joe Bowman Chevy, we want a customer for life.

We will always be transparent about the vehicles we have for sale. As mentioned above, you can examine the vehicle history report and the list of regulations used car dealers must follow.

Trade-In to Reduce Sales Tax

Another plus if you have a trade-in is the reduction in sales tax you will pay. For example, if you buy a used truck for $40,000 and we give you $15,000 for your old vehicle, the difference is $25,000.

So that means you’ll pay sales tax on $25,000, not $40,000. That’s a significant savings!

Expertise

At our used car dealership in Harrisonburg, VA, we have access to much better technical and mechanical expertise than a private seller.

We’ve been at this for a very long time! We can offer ideas that may help you make your purchasing decision easier. With access to the vehicle’s history, buying a used car from us is a more informed buying decision.

Plus, our dealership has a variety of vehicles that may fit your needs. So, you’ve got choices!

And we’ll work with you on your financing needs, discussing with you your options. We’ll help you every step of the way to make the decision that’s right for you!

Learn more about Joe Bowman Auto Plaza here. We’re your Harrisonburg, VA used cars dealership and have been for more than 60 years!

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Chevy continues to up the ante on all-electric cars. When the Chevy Bolt EV first debuted in 2017, it took the world by storm. Now with the addition of the Chevy Bolt EUV, the company once again shows us why it’s the frontrunner in electric vehicles.

Both models seat five and have a 200-horsepower permanent magnet single motor driveline. Both have available large 10.2-inch touchscreens for Android and Apple CarPlay.
Plus, both charge fast and have some driver assistance aids. But what makes them different? Let’s take a look.

2023 Chevy Bolt EV

The Bolt EV is a subcompact, smaller than the EUV. With a maximum driving range of 259 miles—more than the EUV—it has 57 cubic feet of cargo space when you fold down the seats.

The Chevy EV has 93 cubic feet of passenger room. It doesn’t offer as many features or space as the Chevy EUV, but it does have a 65kWh battery pack as well as Chevy’s 3 Plus infotainment system.

Chevy’s Safety Assist is standard and there are cloth seats. You can upgrade with leather seats and adaptive cruise control.

Download Chevy’s my Chevrolet Mobile App (compatible with both Android and Apple devices) and turn your smartphone into a mobile command center for your EV

Use the Vehicle Status to check your vehicle’s health like tire pressure, oil life, and fuel level.

You can remotely stop and start your vehicle, lock and unlock doors, and even sound the horn—all from your smartphone.

With Vehicle Locate, find your vehicle on a map, set and share custom notifications for departure and arrival, and set boundary alerts.

Navigation allows you to pre-plot your trip with Chevy’s built-in navigation system (if properly equipped).

You can even view real-time diagnostics and schedule a service appointment.

Energy Assist lets you view your EV’s driving range and the available charging stations on a map. It can also show you if a specific route is within range, allowing you to adjust your route as needed.

The EV is equipped with advanced in-vehicle technologies that maximize efficiency and allow you to stay connected on the road!

2023 Chevy Bolt EUV

Think of the EUV as an SUV. It’s bigger and has even more options, especially at the top Premium tier trim, but it doesn’t sacrifice convenience.

The driving range is slightly less for the EUV at 247 miles on a full charge. That’s because it’s a little heavier than the EV.

The EUV also offers One Pedal Driving, an innovative feature that captures energy by using regenerative braking to slow down the vehicle. It can be used to speed up, slow down, and even stop using only the accelerator pedal. Think stoplights and crosswalks. (It’s not to be used for emergency braking.)

With 266 lb.-ft. of near instant electric torque, the EUV can also turn on the power. And it’s quick, taking you from 0 to 60 in 7 seconds. It’s fun to drive!

Passengers stay comfy with 39.1” of rear seat leg room and there’s 56.9 cubic feet of cargo volume.

With the Super Cruise Package, you can let the EUV take the wheel with available hands-free driver assistance technology. The EUV also has Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking which uses radar to help reduce or avoid the severity of front-end collisions.

The Lane-Centering feature detects curves with GPS, sensors, and real-time cameras. And just like the EV, you’ve got the remote technology for diagnostics, remote key fob, Vehicle Locate, and navigation that allows you to pre-plot your trip.

With both the Chevy Bolt EV and the Chevy Bolt EUV, you get the quality and performance you expect from Chevrolet. Only now it’s all-electric!

Want to test drive the EV, the EUV, or both? Turn to the pros at Joe Bowman Auto Plaza, your Chevrolet dealer in Harrisonburg, VA.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

There are plenty of used cars for sale in Harrisonburg, VA! If you’re looking to buy a preowned car, you can certainly find one here.

The trick, however, isn’t really to find a used car, is it? The trick is to buy a vehicle that you feel good about. No second thoughts when you plunk down your money.

There’s nothing worse than realizing after the sale you just bought someone else’s problems! How can you avoid that? We offer up three secrets to help you buy with confidence.

Used Car Buying: Privately or Dealership?

Privately–If you can place an ad, you can list a car for sale. That’s how easy it is to find a used car or truck. If you choose to go the private route, recognize you’ll have to do a little more homework to protect yourself and your potential investment.

First, ask to see all of the owner’s car repair receipts of the vehicle you’re thinking about buying. Then talk with the owner’s mechanic about the repairs that were made.

Then have your own mechanic check out the vehicle. You may also do a search online to find out the history of the vehicle. Was it involved in any accidents? How many owners has it had?

Find out everything you can about the car before you buy it. If for any reason the car gives you trouble right after the purchase, understand that you will be responsible for the repairs. The previous owner is just that. Previous. The vehicle is now your responsibility.

Take extra care from private sellers who only want cash or will not provide you with their home address or phone number.

Check guides like the Kelley Blue Book or NADA for pricing comparisons. Lastly, protect yourself against fraud. Before you buy, check the Vehicle Identification Number to make sure the vehicle has not been reported stolen.

Dealership—If you buy a used car from our dealership, those additional steps and worries don’t enter the picture. We don’t place the burden on you to make sure the vehicle is solid.

We do that.

As a Carfax Advantage dealership, the vast majority of the used vehicles we sell are Carfax vehicles. That means we have unlimited access to Carfax Reports. This report is extremely valuable as it tells the history of the vehicle.

You can see everything about the vehicle through Carfax Reports. In addition, the Joe Bowman Auto Plaza service department puts the vehicle through a stringent 75-point inspection. The vehicle must pass the inspection, or it is not for sale.

As a Carfax dealership, consumers know that the dealership is committed to selling quality used vehicles. The Carfax banner builds confidence and allows consumers to make quicker, more confident buying decisions.

Get A Warranty for Your Used Car

While buying a preowned car privately won’t afford you this very valuable feature, buying from Joe Bowman Chevy will. We back up every used car sale with a limited warranty, 30 or 90-days, based on mileage.

You can feel confident with your purchase!

Service After the Sale

With a private vehicle transaction, there is no service after the sale. The owner simply wants to sell the vehicle and move on.

At our Harrisonburg car dealership, we want you as a customer for life.

When you buy from us, we want to continue to earn your loyalty. That’s why Joe Bowman customers also get preferred service scheduling over a customer who has not bought from us.

You’ll also never have to pay for car inspections at our dealership for as long as you own the vehicle. And lastly, we provide courtesy transportation while your vehicle is serviced at our shop.

For car buyers who want greater consumer protection and a higher level of service, turn to the pros at Joe Bowman Auto Plaza. We’ve been helping people like you for 60+ years find the vehicle that fits your lifestyle and budget.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

If you’re from Virginia, no doubt you remember when motorists were trapped in their cars for 24-hours on 1-95. The interstate had turned into one gigantic ice parking lot!

No one ever expects to be in a situation like that, but that’s the point.

The I-95 event was a very real reminder that every motorist should have a car emergency kit. You just never know when Mother Nature is going to throw you a curve.

But what should a car emergency kit have in it? A lot of that depends on you and your lifestyle. For example, if you have a baby or small children, you want to have emergency provisions for them.

If you live in an extremely cold environment where temperatures routinely dip down below zero, you’ll want to have specific preparations for those conditions.

If you live in a hot, dry area, your emergency supplies would include additional water. The important thing here is to understand that your emergency kit can change somewhat from season to season.

In this post, we go over the foundation of what you need in your kit to prepare for when you need it most.

Putting Your Car Emergency Kit Together

A good car emergency kit should have at least the basics.

First Aid Supplies—You can easily buy a first aid kit. Or you can assemble one yourself. It should include basic antibiotic and pain cremes, tweezers, scissors, pain relievers, hand cleaners, instant cold compress, and, if appropriate, baby supplies.

Element Protectors—Think warm blankets and other clothing that will help to prevent hypothermia.

Items That Signal Rescuers—While traditional flares are still available, LED flares are more reliable, safe, and long-lasting.

A 72-Hour Emergency Kit—Again, you can buy this kit online or make one yourself. Items to include are:

• 1 gallon of water per person per day
• Packaged food (non-perishable)
• Charging devices
• Waterproof matches
• Money/Credit or Debit card
• Flashlight(s) and batteries
• Personal documentation in your phone—Emergency phone numbers, auto insurance provider, and a towing company

Your car emergency kit should also include jumper cables, reflective colored cloth or triangles to make your disabled vehicle more visible.

A fire extinguisher, a snow brush, cat litter (for traction if you’re stuck), and a rain poncho.

Consider What Could Go Wrong

If you’re traveling to a specific destination, it’s a good idea to get the statistics for the area you’re visiting. Are there more prevalent risks for the time of year in which you’re traveling?

What are the general weather patterns? Does the area frequently have tornadoes, ice storms? Check ahead and prepare accordingly.

Check Your Kit from Time to Time

Because medical supplies, food and water supplies can all expire, as well as batteries, it’s important to check the kit from time to time. Replace items as needed.

If You Need to Use Your Car Emergency Kit

First, make sure everyone is safe. Keep yourself and your passengers calm. If you have a phone signal, call for help. Use your flares to indicate a vehicle in distress. Generally, it’s better to stay in your car and wait for help unless your vehicle is unsafe.

At Joe Bowman Auto Plaza, we’re big believers in road safety. Keep your car well-maintained to ensure safer driving on the road. Make emergency preparations just in case, then hope you never have to use them!

When you’re ready to buy a new Chevy or one of our quality preowned cars, turn to our Harrisonburg, VA dealership. We’ve been helping people just like you for 60+ years.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

It may be the most misunderstood indicator on your dashboard, and that is the check engine light. Part of your car’s onboard diagnostic system, it comes on when it finds a problem it can’t correct.
 
It may either flash or remain static. In either case, something is amiss with your vehicle.
In this article, we break down the 7 main reasons your check engine light comes on and what to do if it does.
 
Check Engine Light: Static or Flashing

If you see a yellow check engine light on your dashboard, it does mean your vehicle needs mechanical attention. The good news is it’s most likely not something catastrophic like engine failure.
 
Still, you should take your car in for diagnostic tests ASAP. If the light is blinking, or if the light is solid red or orange, it’s a much bigger problem. You could have a mechanical problem that could cause immediate damage.
 
We do not recommend driving your car any further than you have to under these conditions. Get the car’s computer scanned for error codes as soon as possible. Once you know what the problem is, you can decide whether to continue driving or not.
 
Possible Causes the Check Engine Light Comes On

1-Gas Cap is Loose or Faulty
One of the most common reasons a check engine light is triggered is a loose gas cap! Your gas tank system is designed to recirculate gasoline vapors and to keep them from recirculating.
If the gas cap is loose or faulty, it can trigger the check engine light. It will also cause the vehicle to lose fuel from evaporation or for the fuel system to improperly circulate.
 
2-Catalytic Converter is Faulty
Besides triggering the check engine light, a faulty catalytic converter can reduce fuel economy, reduce performance, and increase emissions. But here’s the kicker. Replacing it may not keep the check engine light from coming on.
 
The cause of a catalytic converter failure is usually due to something else. For example, a blown head gasket which forces burnt coolant vapor into the exhaust system.
 
3-Mass Airflow Sensor is Faulty or Dirty
This sensor determines how much fuel is needed to run the engine, and it determines how much air is needed in the engine. If the mass airflow sensor is dirty or faulty, it can trigger the check engine light.
 
This sensor is susceptible to dirt and oil buildup, so sometimes a cleaning will fix the problem. If it doesn’t, you’ll need to replace it.
 
4-Spark Plugs are Worn
If your spark plugs aren’t firing correctly, it can cause not only an engine misfire but an increase in hydrocarbon emissions. The result? A weaker performance of the engine, and cause that pesky check engine light to come on.
 
5- Oxygen Sensor is Faulty
An oxygen sensor measures the amount of oxygen in the exhaust. If it’s not working properly, it can trigger the check engine light to come on.
 
6-Transmission Problems
Transmission problems can cause the check engine light to come on. This includes low transmission fluid, a slipping clutch, and a faulty torque converter.
 
7-Engine Problems
A problem with your engine will cause the check engine light to come on. This includes problems with the fuel system, pistons, and valves.
 
What If the Check Engine Light Comes on While Driving?
As we said earlier, we recommend pulling over as soon as you can. Then turn off the car. Check under the hood for any visible signs of problems.
 
If you can’t find anything, with the vehicle turned off, disconnect the battery for a few minutes. Reconnect it and start the vehicle. The check engine light should be gone. If not, take it to a mechanic as soon as possible.
 
Either way, your vehicle needs immediate attention. Don’t delay!
 
Conclusion
There are many reasons why your check engine light could come on. It could be as simple as a loose gas cap to as dangerous as an engine problem. Pull over as soon as you can.
 
If you have a diagnostic scanner, use it to determine the severity of the problem. That will tell you whether it’s safe to continue driving for a short distance or whether to call for help.
 
Keep your vehicle in tip top shape with Joe Bowman Auto Plaza’s Chevy-certified technicians. These highly skilled mechanics work on all makes and models and are committed to keeping you safe on the road. Learn more about our Harrisonburg, VA dealership here.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Nobody has to tell you that gas is expensive. That’s why it pays to keep your vehicle as fuel efficient as possible.. But what happens if your car is suddenly using more gas?
 
There are nine main reasons gas mileage might dip or take a big nosedive! Here’s what our service department recommends you investigate.
 
You’ve Got Tire Issues 
One of the first things our technicians look for when there’s a sudden loss of fuel efficiency are issues with the vehicle’s tires.
 
If tires are low on pressure then it’s harder to move the vehicle, and that forces the engine to work harder. Heck, the whole vehicle will be harder to move because the tires won’t be round.
 
And that means poor gas mileage.
 
It’s easy to simply check tire pressure with a tire pressure gauge. But what if that isn’t the problem?
 
It could be the tires are out of balance or misaligned. The best way to check for misaligned tires is to let go of the steering wheel briefly to see if the car continues to move in a straight line. If it doesn’t, the tires are out of alignment.
 
Also, check tire tread wear to make sure the tires are wearing evenly. If there is uneven wear, it’s time to get your tires aligned and rotated.

Stuck Caliper or Shoe
While you’re checking tire pressure, check the brakes for possible issues. Is there the right amount of brake fluid lubricant? Is the caliper or shoe in the wrong position? These conditions can cause a reduction in gas mileage efficiency.
 
You could also have a brake with the pad still on the rotor. In this case, the car will be hard to drive, even dangerous.
 
Take a quick check and if need be, bring it in for service.
 
Low Oil Level
Our Chevy certified technicians stress to all our customers the importance of checking the oil regularly and having it changed regularly. It’s vital to the health and performance of your car.
 
Specifically, car oil helps to lubricate the engine. If your oil is old or you don’t have enough of it, the engine has to work harder to do its job, burning more gas and causing excessive wear and tear to the engine.
 
Consult your owner’s manual for information on how often to get the oil changed.
 
Mass Airflow Sensor is Defective
A key component of your vehicle’s electronic fuel injection system, the mass air flow sensor measures the air mass flowing into the engine.
 
If this sensor isn’t working properly or if it’s dirty, the check engine light can come on, but not always.
 
Besides poor fuel economy, a defective mass airflow sensor may cause the vehicle to hesitate or jerk, cause rough running or misfiring, difficulty starting and turning over the engine, lean idling, and black exhaust smoke.
 
Sometimes the mass airflow sensor is simply dirty and needs replacing. You don’t want to harm your engine if it’s burning the wrong fuel mix for a long time. Check this sensor and replace, if necessary.
 
Oxygen Sensor is Dirty
Your oxygen sensor measures the air in the cylinder of the engine before combustion. Then it adds the right amount of gas to the mix. It, too, can become dirty which causes the car to suddenly burn more fuel.
 
Check this sensor if you notice your mileage slipping.
 
Dirty Air Filter or Clogged Fuel Injectors
If your vehicle is burning too much gas, it could be the fuel mixture is too rich. Just like a bad sensor, a dirty air filter can cause false readings.
 
The same is true for fuel injectors. If they are bad, they could fire twice because they are not reading enough gas in the cylinder. A dirty injector may also remain open which leads to more gas consumption.
 
As part of regular car maintenance, replace dirty air filters and clean the fuel injectors occasionally to ensure they are performing at their peak.
 
Dirty or Bad Spark Plugs
When fuel efficiency is an issue, check your spark plugs. Not only can dirty or bad spark plugs cause a loss of fuel efficiency, but they can also cause engine damage.
 
Check to make sure the gap is right and that the spark plugs aren’t corroded or burnt. If one is bad, it’s best to replace all of them to keep the vehicle running smoothly.
 
Note: While most spark plugs last 100,000 miles or more, they do need to be changed eventually.
 
Fuel Pump is Faulty
A bad fuel pump may be pumping too much gas into the vehicle’s engine. This happens for a lot of reasons, but one of the main causes is the fuel pump isn’t pumping the right amount of fuel or oil.
 
Initially, the symptoms may be very subtle, but if you’ve checked other possible causes and there is no improvement. Check your fuel pump.
 
Your Driving Habits 
Speed affects fuel efficiency. So, if you’re speeding frequently, you’re burning more gas. If you have more stop and go driving, you’ll use more gas. Excessive idling can also cause a loss of fuel efficiency.
 
Notice your driving habits, and where possible, change them to extend the life of your vehicle.
 
Conclusion
When trying to track down the sudden cause of your car using more gas, check your brakes, fuel pump and injectors, spark plugs, oil level, tires, and your driving habits.
 
Often, you’ll find the culprit hiding in one of those places.
 
If you’d like first class automotive maintenance and repair service, turn to our service department. Our Chevy-certified technicians are skilled at working with all makes and models.
 
And when you’re ready to buy a new Chevy or one of our quality used cars, turn to our sales consultants. We’ll help you find the right vehicle for your lifestyle and budget! 
 
Additionally, Joe Bowman Chevy buyers take priority when scheduling automotive service. Learn more about us on our home page.

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »