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Routine Maintenance Requirements to Keep Your Chevrolet Running Properly

Owning a Chevrolet is a long-term investment, and the best way to protect that investment is by staying on top of routine maintenance requirements to keep your vehicle running properly. Regular upkeep helps you avoid costly repairs down the road and keeps your vehicle performing the way it was designed to. The good news is that most routine maintenance tasks follow a predictable schedule. When you understand what needs attention and when, it becomes much easier to stay ahead of potential problems before they turn into major headaches. more Why Routine Maintenance Requirements Matter for Your Chevrolet Skipping scheduled maintenance might seem harmless in the short term, but the long-term effects can be significant. Routine maintenance requirements exist because your vehicle's components wear over time and need regular attention to function safely and efficiently. From the engine to the brakes to the tires, every system in your Chevy depends on consistent care. Neglecting even one area can create a ripple effect that impacts other parts of the vehicle. Staying current with your maintenance schedule is one of the simplest and most effective things you can do as a vehicle owner. Oil and Filter Changes One of the most fundamental routine maintenance requirements is regular oil and filter changes. Engine oil lubricates moving parts, reduces friction, and helps regulate engine temperature. Over time, oil breaks down and becomes less effective at doing its job. Most Chevrolet models have an oil life monitoring system that alerts you when it's time for a change based on your actual driving conditions rather than a fixed mileage interval. Pay attention to that alert and don't put it off. Using the right type of oil as specified in your owner's manual also makes a difference in engine longevity. Tire Rotation and Pressure Checks Tires wear unevenly depending on their position on the vehicle, which is why regular rotation is important. Rotating your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles helps distribute wear more evenly, extending the life of the tires and maintaining consistent handling and traction. Tire pressure is equally important. Underinflated tires can affect fuel efficiency, cause premature wear, and make your vehicle harder to control. Overinflated tires reduce the contact the tire has with the road, which can compromise grip. Check your tire pressure monthly and always reference the recommended PSI found on the sticker inside your driver's door jamb. Brake Inspections and Fluid Checks Your brakes are one of the most critical safety systems on your Chevrolet, making brake inspections a vital part of routine maintenance. Brake pads wear down gradually and catching them before they're completely worn out prevents damage to rotors and keeps stopping distances where they should be. In addition to the pads themselves, brake fluid should be inspected regularly. Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which can reduce its effectiveness and lead to a spongy brake pedal feel. If it's been a few years since your fluid was last replaced, it's worth having it checked by a trained technician. Air Filter Replacement A clean engine air filter allows your engine to breathe properly, supporting efficient combustion and protecting internal components from dust and debris. A clogged or dirty air filter can reduce engine performance and, over time, negatively affect fuel efficiency. Most manufacturers recommend inspecting the engine air filter every 15,000 to 30,000 miles, though this can vary depending on your driving environment. If you frequently drive on unpaved roads or in dusty conditions, you may need to replace it more often. Your cabin air filter, which keeps the air inside your vehicle clean, should also be replaced on a regular basis. Battery Testing and Coolant Service A weak or failing battery is one of the most common causes of unexpected breakdowns, yet it's one of the easiest things to monitor. Having your battery tested at least once a year, especially before cold weather sets in, is a smart part of any routine maintenance plan. Coolant, also known as antifreeze, keeps your engine from overheating in summer and freezing in winter. Over time, coolant degrades and loses its ability to protect the engine effectively. A coolant flush at the interval recommended in your owner's manual helps prevent corrosion inside the cooling system and keeps engine temperatures stable year-round. Visit Orr Chevrolet for Certified Service in Fort Smith, AR Keeping up with routine maintenance requirements to keep your vehicle running properly doesn't have to be complicated. When you work with a trusted service team, it becomes a straightforward and stress-free part of vehicle ownership. Drivers throughout Fort Smith, Arkansas, can count on the certified service team at Orr Chevrolet for everything from oil changes and tire rotations to brake inspections and battery testing. Visit Orr Chevrolet to schedule your next service appointment and keep your Chevy performing at its best for years to come.

Chevrolet Silverado 1500

How to Maintain Your Chevrolet Silverado 1500

Why Regular Maintenance Matters for Your Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Owning a Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is a testament to your appreciation for power, durability, and versatility. However, even the most reliable trucks require regular maintenance to ensure they perform at their best. For drivers in Fort Smith, AR, maintaining your Silverado 1500 is essential for tackling both daily commutes and heavy-duty tasks. Regular maintenance not only extends the life of your truck but also keeps it running efficiently, saving you money on fuel and preventing costly repairs down the line. Whether you’re hauling equipment or exploring off-road trails, a well-maintained Silverado 1500 will always be ready for the challenge. more Essential Maintenance Tips for Your Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Keep Up with Oil Changes One of the most critical aspects of maintaining your Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is ensuring timely oil changes. The engine oil lubricates vital components, reducing wear and tear while keeping the engine cool. Chevrolet recommends checking your owner’s manual for the specific oil change intervals for your model year. Using high-quality oil and filters is crucial, especially if you frequently tow heavy loads or drive in extreme conditions. Regular oil changes will keep your Silverado 1500’s engine running smoothly and efficiently. Inspect and Rotate Tires Regularly Your Silverado 1500’s tires are its connection to the road, making their maintenance a top priority. Regularly inspect your tires for signs of wear, proper inflation, and alignment issues. Uneven tire wear can affect handling and fuel efficiency, so rotating your tires every 5,000 to 7,000 miles is recommended. For drivers in Fort Smith, AR, where road conditions can vary, maintaining proper tire pressure and tread depth ensures safety and optimal performance. Don’t forget to check your spare tire as well! Monitor Brake Performance The braking system is vital for your safety and the overall performance of your Chevrolet Silverado 1500. Pay attention to warning signs such as squeaking noises, reduced braking power, or a spongy brake pedal feel. These could indicate worn brake pads or other issues that need immediate attention. Regular brake inspections should be part of your maintenance routine to ensure your truck stops effectively when needed, especially when towing or driving on steep inclines. Check Fluids and Filters Your Silverado 1500 relies on various fluids to operate efficiently, including coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. Regularly checking and topping off these fluids can prevent overheating and mechanical failures. Additionally, replacing air filters and cabin filters at recommended intervals ensures clean airflow to both the engine and interior cabin, enhancing performance and comfort. Stay on Top of Scheduled Maintenance Chevrolet provides a detailed maintenance schedule tailored to your Silverado 1500 model year. This schedule includes essential services such as spark plug replacement, belt inspections, and battery checks. Following this schedule ensures that every component of your truck remains in top condition. For Fort Smith, AR drivers, Orr Chevrolet offers certified service technicians who are well-versed in maintaining Chevrolet vehicles. They can help you stay on track with your truck’s maintenance needs. Maintaining your Chevrolet Silverado 1500 doesn’t have to be a daunting task. At Orr Chevrolet of Fort Smith, our certified technicians are here to provide expert care for your truck. From routine oil changes to comprehensive inspections, we ensure your Silverado 1500 stays road-ready for years to come. Visit us today or schedule a service appointment online at Orr Chevrolet of Fort Smith

Why Regular Chevrolet Maintenance Matters in Arkansas: The Orr Chevrolet Service Advantage

If you drive in Arkansas, you already know — our climate, terrain, and daily driving conditions are different than most places. From humid summers and sudden rainfall to dusty backroads and highway stretches, vehicles here experience more stress than drivers realize. That’s exactly why routine Chevrolet maintenance isn’t just recommended — it’s essential for long-term reliability and performance. At Orr Chevrolet of Fort Smith, our service department is built around one mission: helping drivers protect their investment and drive with confidence year-round. more Arkansas Driving Conditions Demand Better Care Heat, humidity, potholes, and fluctuating weather patterns take a toll on vehicles over time. These factors lead to: Faster oil breakdown Brake wear Tire deterioration Electrical system corrosion AC strain and coolant degradation That means waiting too long between service intervals can lead not only to costly repairs, but also reduced fuel economy, safety hazards, and premature aging of your vehicle. Why Chevrolet Owners in Fort Smith Trust Orr Chevrolet Service Our service department provides what generic repair shops simply can’t match: Certified Technicians, Trained Specifically for Chevrolet Vehicles Our technicians aren’t just mechanics — they’re factory-trained experts who understand Chevrolet engineering inside and out. From Silverado trucks and Tahoe SUVs to Trax, Equinox, and EV models, they know how your system functions — and how to keep it performing at its best. Genuine Chevrolet OEM Parts When parts wear out, replacing them with generic components can lead to fitment issues or failure down the road. We install genuine GM-certified parts, built for durability and warranty-backed performance. Advanced Diagnostic Systems Modern vehicles need modern tools. Our equipment communicates directly with Chevrolet systems to identify issues early — often before they become noticeable problems. The Most Requested Services at Orr Chevrolet — and Why They Matter 1. Oil & Filter Changes Arkansas heat and stop-and-go traffic accelerate oil breakdown. Regular oil changes protect engine life, improve fuel efficiency, and prevent costly internal damage. 2. Brake Service & Inspections Humidity and uneven terrain cause brake wear faster than drivers assume. Our team inspects pads, rotors, calipers, and fluid systems for peak stopping power. 3. Tire Rotation, Balance & Alignment Fort Smith roads, curbs, and highway miles contribute to uneven wear. Proper tire care improves safety, traction, and fuel economy — and prolongs tire life. 4. Battery & Charging System Checks Heat drains battery capacity. We test health, detect early failure, and install replacements before you get stranded. 5. Air Conditioning & Cooling System Service Arkansas summers push AC systems hard. We recharge and inspect components for efficiency and comfort. 6. Factory-Scheduled Maintenance Packages We follow GM-recommended service intervals based on mileage — critical for maintaining warranty coverage and performance. What Makes Orr Chevrolet Service Different? Transparent Recommendations, No Surprise Selling We explain what your vehicle needs — and why — using clear inspection tools and digital reporting. Comfort & Convenience Enjoy scheduling flexibility, a clean customer lounge, shuttle availability, and status updates while your vehicle is being serviced. Service Built for Trust, Not Transactions Many of our customers return year after year because they know they’re treated like family and their vehicles get dealership-level care. Why “Chevrolet Service Near Me” Searches Lead Drivers to Orr Chevrolet Most drivers research where to service their vehicle before ever stepping foot in a dealership. Searches like: Chevy Service Fort Smith Oil Change Near Me Tire Service Fort Smith Chevrolet Brake Repair Arkansas Certified GM Mechanic consistently bring customers our way because we match what shoppers are looking for — real expertise, fair pricing, and a team that backs every service. Protect Your Chevrolet. Schedule Service Today. Your vehicle deserves the right care to stay dependable for the long haul — and Orr Chevrolet of Fort Smith is committed to delivering it. Whether it’s: ✔ Routine maintenance ✔ A warning light ✔ A seasonal inspection ✔ Brake or engine repair ✔ Factory service intervals our certified team is ready to keep your Chevy running strong. Visit our service department or schedule your appointment online — your Chevrolet will thank you. Drive confidently. Drive protected. Drive Orr Chevrolet.

wheel alignment for your chevy colorado in fort smith arkansas

Proper Wheel Alignment for Your Chevy Colorado

Effective wheel alignment is a delicate task that's best left to the pros. If your wheels have become knocked out of their original parallel positioning, correcting them requires specialist machinery capable of measuring angles down to the millimeter. The benefits of having your wheels professionally realigned are significant, as outlined below. If the handling, steering, and gas mileage of your Chevy Colorado is suffering because of misaligned wheels, have them set straight today at your local Chevy dealership. more Optimize Your Handling When wheels become crooked from continual small knocks and bumps over potholes, they start to twist the car's steering system out of shape. You may find it harder to steer precisely and it's possible for the steering wheel to come off-center. Some drivers with misaligned wheels even find their cars pulling slightly to one side when driving along straight streets. Extend Your Tire Lifespan Even with perfectly parallel wheels, tires take a beating from the strain of steering, accelerating, and braking under so much weight. When your wheels become misaligned, this wear and tear heightens dramatically, causing uneven wear and shortening the lifespan of each affected tire. Stay Safer on the Road Your risk of skids and blowouts also increases with tires weakened by misaligned wheels. The reduction in handling creates a further safety hazard, lessening your ability to precisely control your car in the case of an emergency. Enjoy Smoother Driving If your wheels are misaligned, you might have noticed a steady increase in road noise and vibrations. Then again, the changes from misaligned wheels are so gradual that you might not realize them at first; once you have your wheels fixed, the sudden smoothness and quiet will be a wonderful surprise. Boost Your Gas Mileage Any fault related to the wheels and tires tends to increase rolling drag, forcing the engine to exert more power for each mile you cover. This means a fall in fuel efficiency and a jump in the number of gas stops you need to make. How Often To Visit Your Chevy Dealership for Realignment Drivers typically need to have their wheels realigned every one or two years. However, it's important to check your alignment more frequently that this to know when it's time for realignment. Twice a year is a good interval for an alignment check. If you often use rougher roads or off-road tracks, you might need more frequent realignments than most drivers. And if you notice the above warning signs, have your alignment measured immediately. Visit Orr Chevrolet of Fort Smith in Fort Smith, AR, to have your wheels brought back into their original factory positioning. We provide a broad range of new and pre-owned vehicles, prompt upkeep services, and personalized customer care.

chevy malibu maintenance in fort smith arkansas

Chevy Malibu Maintenance

As your Chevy dealer, we offer a complete range of services and maintenance to keep your Chevy Malibu in great shape. We want to tell you about a few examples of the types of Chevy Malibu maintenance we offer. more Battery Replacement The average life of a car battery is three to five years. This limited life is due to the naturally occurring breakdown of the sulfuric acid inside the battery. Sulfuric acid reacts with the battery's copper plates to store electricity as chemical energy. As time passes, the acid breaks down, reducing the battery's storage capacity. Once the store capacity reaches the point that it can't maintain enough power to start your engine, it's time to get a new battery. A weakening battery always shows signs something is wrong. These signs range from slower working accessories to dim interior lights to slower engine starting. We can test your battery by connecting it to our computerized battery tester. This machine analyses the battery and identifies any weaknesses. If your battery is weak, we can install a new Chevy-approved battery. Shock Replacement Shocks play a vital role in safe and comfortable driving. They absorb the impact of driving over less-than-smooth terrain and dissipate the energy. This bumpy, jolting ride protects the engine and other components against up-and-down movement and potential impact damage. Healthy shocks help prevent rollover, ensure driving stability, and reduce wear and tear on numerous components like the tire, brakes, and axles. Your shocks are usually replaced every 50,000 to 100,000 miles, but this does vary. Carrying heavy loads, driving over rough terrain, and other factors will cause them to wear faster. We advise getting your shocks checked every 12,500 miles or sooner if specified in your vehicle manual. Our technicians can replace worn or damaged shocks very quickly so you'll continue to enjoy the smooth ride you expect from a Chevy. Oil Replacement Oil provides the essential lubrication that allows your engine to work smoothly and efficiently. Numerous engine components depend on friction to work effectively, and without adequate lubrication, this results in excessive wear and tear. Fast-moving oil helps cool hot engine components, lowering the engine temperature. In addition, oil additives keep your engine clean, break down potentially harmful deposits, and protect against rust. Regular oil changes are important, as older oil absorbs dirt and minute debris inside the engine, causing it to slow down. Slower moving oil is less effective at lubricating engine components, causing them to wear out faster. Older oil also reduces engine efficiency, leading to lower fuel economy. An oil change is quick and can be performed while you enjoy the comfort of our waiting area. Book your next maintenance today. Contact us at Orr Chevrolet of Fort Smith in Fort Smith, AR.

auto air conditioner service in fort smith arkansas

Signs You Need AC Maintenance for Your Chevy

If your AC isn't working correctly, your Chevy dealer is here to help. Our Chevy-trained technicians can speedily fix any issue, and cold air will billow from your AC again in no time. These are some signs you need us for AC maintenance. more No Airflow If no air blows through the vents and the AC is running, you could have a blocked air intake or a blockage in the vents. The air intake is located just below your windshield, and the air is drawn in through it, then chilled and blown into the cabin. This vent can become blocked by dirt, leaves, or other debris, preventing air from reaching the AC. The air that enters the AC can contain dirt, leaves, and other substances. This debris can block the ducts, preventing air from blowing into the cabin. If this has happened, you'll usually hear rattling or rusting when the AC is running as the debris moves around. We'll quickly remove any debris from the intake vent and clear any duct blockage, and airflow into your cabin will return to normal. The Compressor Isn't Working The compressor is the most important part of your AC system, as it controls the movement of air and refrigerant through the AC. It can fail due to age or be damaged by stones or other hard objects thrown up from the ground. Without a working compressor, your AC system can't operate. Fortunately, a damaged compressor clutch is one of the most common reasons for a failed AC. The clutch switches the compressor on and off as air and refrigerant move through the system. A worn compressor clutch can jam closed, and your AC system won't work. If clutch failure is the cause of the problem, our technicians can install a new clutch, and the compressor will work again. Leaking Refrigerant Refrigerant is the gas that chills the air before it's blown into your cabin. It's odorless and colorless and evaporates in contact with the outside air. The refrigerant is pushed through the AC system under pressure that reaches 200 PSI. Time and pressure can weaken the seals or other vulnerable parts of the AC system, and refrigerant can escape. If your AC air doesn't get as cold as it previously did, you could have a refrigerant leak. We check for leaks in the AC by adding a UV dye to the system and then monitoring the refrigerant's passage through the AC using a UV viewer. We'll fix the leak as soon as we locate the source, then refill your refrigerant. Contact our service department today at Orr Chevrolet of Fort Smith in Fort Smith, AR.

oil change in fort smith arkansas

The Importance of a Regular Oil Change for Your Chevy Equinox

Maintaining your Chevy Equinox isn't just about making sure it looks good. It also makes sure that it keeps running as efficiently as it should, for as long as it can. One of the key maintenance steps you can take is to arrange a regular oil change with your Chevy dealer. This simple task can have a big impact on ensuring your vehicle is kept in its best condition. more You can think of your Chevy's engine as its heart and the oil as its blood. Engine oil lubricates the moving parts of the engine, reducing friction. This prevents overheating and damage as the parts rub against each other. Over time, however, engine oil will become contaminated with substances like dirt, debris, and even metal particles. These substances cause increased friction, which can cause overheating and eventually engine damage. Changing the engine's oil ensures that it is running using fresh, clean, and uncontaminated oil. Protecting the Engine's Longevity The wear and tear created by the engine running using contaminated oil will eventually lead to damaged internal components. This could mean costly repairs and replacements for you down the line. In the worst-case scenario, the damage could trigger the engine to seize, which could result in a full engine replacement becoming necessary. A regular schedule for oil changes will reduce the chances of your engine being damaged. How often you need to change your oil will depend on how you use your vehicle, your driving style, the road and environmental conditions, and the type of oil you use. Performance Enhancements Changing your Chevy's oil regularly doesn't just protect it from damage. It can also help to improve its performance. This is because an engine running on clean oil will be more efficient and doesn't have to work as hard to perform. You can expect reduced engine noise, improved fuel efficiency, and better responsiveness. A smoother, quieter ride is definitely a big plus, but so are the savings. Not only will you save money on fuel but also on less frequent repairs and replacements. Oil changes are a worthwhile and cost-effective investment for any vehicle owner. Trust The Experts At Your Chevy Dealer It is always better to have your oil changed by certified technicians. Using high-quality oil and filters, we will ensure that your engine is protected and is performing at its best. Our technicians will also keep a keen eye on any emerging issues with your engine so that they can be addressed sooner rather than later. A small investment in your car's health can have a big payoff in the long run. Contact us today at Orr Chevrolet of Fort Smith in Fort Smith, AR so we can keep your Chevy Equinox's engine running smoothly.

chevy volt ev care in fort smith arkansas

Chevy Volt EV Care: Tips for Long Battery Life

The 2024 Chevy Volt is a stunning fully electric vehicle that can eliminate your personal carbon emissions and save you lots of money on fuel. If you want to keep your Volt in tip-top performance shape, you will need to schedule routine Chevy Volt maintenance for your battery at your Chevy dealer. more While it may seem a bit counterintuitive, your EV battery will last much longer if you avoid over-charging it. Chevy recommends only recharging your battery to about 80% since this helps the drive battery last longer and even supports your vehicle's regenerative braking system. Chevy makes it simple to avoid overcharging your battery by allowing you to set a maximum charge level with the vehicle's computer or with your myChevy app. As for the type of charger you should use, it's typically best to use a Level 1 or a Level 2 charger to protect your battery. While DC fast charging is fine if you're at a roadside charging station, the use of a Level 3 charger should be sparse. It's typically best to charge your EV overnight to prepare for all of your daily driving needs. Watch the Weather Just like a combustion engine, your EV's electric drive battery is also vulnerable to extreme weather. Very hot or very cold weather can reduce your EV's driving range by a significant amount. It's best to store your EV in a garage to reduce extreme weather exposure. Ask Your Chevy Dealer: How Often Do You Need Chevy Volt Maintenance? In general, your Volt will require less maintenance overall simply because an electric car has fewer components than a gas model. However, you will still need to schedule routine service for essential parts at least twice a year or every 7,500 miles. The most common maintenance tasks for your EV include changing air filters, inflating the tires, rotating the tires, and replacing windshield wipers. After owning your EV for a few years, you will likely need to schedule a service appointment to check the level of brake fluid in your vehicle and change your brake pads. Factors like how frequently you drive your car and how heavily you rely on your brakes can determine how often brake pads need to be replaced. A Chevy mechanic should also check your regenerative brake system and the health of your battery at least once a year. Whether it's your vehicle's drive battery or your brake system, you will need to keep up with routine maintenance appointments at your local dealership to ensure your Volt is always ready for the road. Book your battery service appointment at Orr Chevrolet of Fort Smith in Fort Smith, AR.

auto service in fort smith arkansas

From Your Chevy Dealer: Why a Differential Service Is Important

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​The differential is a gear train attached to each axle that enables the wheels to move at different speeds. They are very tough components, but they do require regular servicing to operate effectively. As your Chevy dealer, we want to tell you more about how your differentials work and advise you on some signs you need to visit us for a differential service. more How a Differential Works The engine produces energy, and the transmission focuses this energy and transfers it to the wheels to enable them to move at the desired speed. The differential on each axle allows the wheels to move at different speeds if necessary. While both axles have differentials, one differential will work harder than the other, depending on your drivetrain. An FWD front differential, for example, does most of the work. The differential comes into play when you're cornering. Under these circumstances, the outside wheels will move faster than the inside wheels as they have further to move. The differential transfers more power to the outside wheel and reduces the power supplied to the inside wheel to compensate. This process lets you corner with ease. Differential Warning Signs The differentials are sealed units filled with a thick oil that lets them move smoothly and easily. Over time, this oil becomes thinner due to age and the heat inside the differential, and this reduces the differential's effectiveness. Thinner oil can also damage the gears inside the differentials, as it doesn't provide the friction-resistant coating the gears need for protection. These are a few warning signs that something is wrong. Losing Traction If you feel your wheels lack traction when you corner, this could be due to thin, old oil preventing the differential gears from smoothly engaging. This prevents sufficient power from being transferred to the outside wheel, which also causes the inside wheel to feel like it's slipping. Once we replace the differential fluid, this problem will disappear. Fluid Leak Differential oil looks similar to engine oil, but it's much thicker. You could have a cracked differential if you spot a puddle of oily liquid underneath either of your axles. The leak could be caused by rust or a damaged seal. The differentials could also become damaged by stones or other hard objects thrown up from the road. We'll examine your differentials and repair or replace them. Whining or Grinding Noises You could have worn or damaged differential gear teeth if you hear either of these sounds when you corner. The noises could also be due to a leak, as a lack of fluid will cause excessive friction in the differential. We'll investigate and fix the problem. Damaged differentials will worsen over time. Contact us today at Orr Chevrolet of Fort Smith in Fort Smith, AR.

tire change in fort smith arkansas

Advice From Your Chevy Dealer: How To Change a Tire Like a Pro

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​A flat tire can happen at any time, and you don't want to have to wait for help. If a tire has failed, you can easily change it yourself and be back on the road again in no time. As your Chevy dealer, we'd like to guide you through the easy steps to replace that flat like a pro. Photo by: Andrea Piacquadio via pexels.com more Find Somewhere Safe Changing a tire isn't difficult, but you want to do it in a safe place as far from other moving vehicles as possible. If your tire goes flat, you'll hear a strange sound, and your car's handling will become slightly more difficult. Look around for a relatively flat area ahead of you and pull over ASAP. Switch off your engine and apply the parking brake so your car won't move. It's very important to switch on your emergency lights so other drivers will realize that you've stopped. You can also raise your hood and trunk lid, as this warns other drivers that you have a problem. Collect the Tools Changing a flat requires only three tools: a lug wrench, a jack, and a spare tire. These items are usually stored in the trunk, but the spare could also be underneath your vehicle. Your car manual will show you their exact location. Loosen the Nuts Use the lug wrench to loosen each of the lug nuts. You'll probably have to use some force to turn them. The easiest way to do this is to attach the lug wrench to a nut and then use your foot to press down on the wrench's handle. Loosen each nut in turn until they can easily be turned by hand. Position the Jack Look underneath your vehicle for a flat metal place. One of these is mounted on the frame behind each tire. These jacking points provide a solid and safe place to place the jack. Once the jack is in place, raise your car a few inches off the ground. Replace the Tire Remove all the loose lug nuts, then remove the flat and place it on one side. Mount the spare tire on the wheel hub and rotate it until the holes on the tire and wheel hub match up. Screw the lug nuts back in place and turn them as tightly as possible. Lower Your Chevy Lower your Chevy to the ground and remove the jack. Use the lug wrench once again to tighten each nut as securely as possible. All that's left to do is to put the jack, lug wrench, and flat back in their places. You're now ready to drive away. You now know the easy steps to replace a tire. Drive over to our service department at Orr Chevrolet of Fort Smith in Fort Smith, AR, and we'll replace your spare.

oil change in fort smith arkansas

Oil Changes are Non-Negotiable

Nobody likes car trouble, and it's even worse when it could have been prevented with a little TLC. That's where preventative maintenance comes in. Giving your car some regular love at the Chevy dealer can keep it running smoothly and dodge those bigger, nastier problems down the road. Photo by: Daniel Andraski via pexels.com more Changing your car's oil is as essential as filling up the gas tank. Old, gunky oil is no friend to your engine, leading to all sorts of unhappy outcomes. Chevy pros suggest swapping your oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, but what model you have and how you drive can make a difference in how often you need oil. Tires Keep Your Car Rolling Your car's tires need to be in good shape to do their job. Get them rotated about every 5,000 to 7,500 miles to wear them down evenly and make them last longer. Check your air pressure at least once a month and make sure your tires are inflated correctly. Preserve Your Stopping Power With Good Brakes Good brakes are a must for obvious reasons. An annual check at the dealership can catch any wear and tear early on, saving you from pricier fixes and, more importantly, keeping you safe on the road. Fill Up Your Fluids Oil isn't the only fluid that your car needs. Coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid are all vital to your car's health. These fluids can get dirty or low, so having them checked and swapped out on a regular basis keeps things running without a hitch. Keep Your Filters Clean Air filters, cabin air filters, and fuel filters keep the bad stuff out. If they get too dirty, your car won't be feeling its best. Regular changes during your service appointments mean your Chevy can breathe easy. Check Your Belts and Hoses They might not be talked about much, but belts and hoses are super important. A broken belt or a leaky hose can lead to big-time engine problems. The techs at the dealership will give these parts a once over and let you know if they're looking tired or worn out. Team Up With Your Chevy Dealer for Preventative Maintenance Your Chevy needs a lot of care to work its best, and there's no one who knows that better than the experts at your local dealership. Our certified technicians know your vehicle inside and out, which means we can provide the maintenance it needs to prevent larger problems later. From a quick oil change to a thorough once-over, taking the time to care for your car can be a game changer. Schedule your next service appointment at Orr Chevrolet of Fort Smith in Fort Smith in Fort Smith, AR.

jump starting a car in fort smith arkansas

From Your Chevy Dealership: 4 Easy Steps To Jump-Start a Car

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Knowing how to jump-start a car is important for every driver. If you, or someone you know, has a dead battery, jump-starting a failed battery can get a car back on the road again very quickly. As your Chevy dealership, we'd like to share with you the easy steps to successfully jump-start a vehicle. Photo by: A Q via pexels.com more Park Closely In this scenario, your Chevy will jump-start another car. Before you do this, locate the battery in the other vehicle. Once you've located the battery, position your car as close as possible to the other vehicle. The shorter the distance between the two batteries, the faster and easier the electricity will flow into the other battery. Connect the Cables Jumper cables have one red and one black cable. The red cable is positive, and the black cable is negative. These cables must be positioned in the correct order to prevent any damage to your battery. Take one side of the red cable and use the attached grip to securely position it on the positive terminal of the dead battery. When it's secure, take the other end of the red cable and connect it to the positive terminal on your battery. Connecting the black cables is slightly different. Attach one side of the black cable to the negative terminal on your battery. The remaining clamp on the black cable must be connected to any unpolished metal in the engine of the other vehicle. Some cars have a grounding bolt, which has a negative sign on it. Jump-Start Now the cables are in position, return to your car and switch the engine on. Allow your engine to idle for a few minutes. After this, return to the other vehicle and try and start it. If it starts, jump-starting is complete. If the engine doesn't start, idle your engine for a further ten minutes, and try to start the other engine again. Remove the Cables Once the other vehicle is running, it's time to remove the clamps. They must be removed in a specific order for safety. Firstly, remove the black cable from the other vehicle, then remove the other side of the black cable from your car. Next, remove the red clamp from your car, and finally, remove the remaining clamp from the previously dead battery. The jump-started vehicle will need to be driven for at least twenty minutes to allow its alternator to replenish some of the battery's lost power, but your job is done. Congratulations on a successful jump-start. If you'd like to know more, visit us today at Orr Chevrolet of Fort Smith in Fort Smith, AR.

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