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I know you’re planning all of your spring road trips and getting ready to pack the family in the vehicle to head out for some family fun. But before you do that - there are a few things that you should be checking for on your vehicle. I know that your vehicle is one heck of a gadget that has plenty of things that can go wrong, especially during the winter weather conditions. So, with that being said, I put together a list of things that should be at the top of your list when it comes to showing your vehicle a little TLC this spring. We encourage you to take a look at those below and head out to your vehicle to ensure that it’s in proper working condition. Not sure if these tasks are something that you’re confident with? Not to worry! Our team can take care of all of those things for you right here at Zappone CJDR in Granville! Just stop in to see our team or schedule your service appointment online today! We’re here to help, now let’s get started! Things To Check Up On: Check on all of your vehicle’s fluids. Engine oil, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid, power steering fluid, and others alike. If these fluids look dirty, be sure to swap them out or let a professional do it. Be sure to check on the hoses and belts under the hood of your vehicle. Check for cracking, bulging, and excessive wear and tear. Take a look at your battery, make sure it has tight connections, is corrosive free, and ready to take you the distance this summer. If you haven’t had an oil change recently, check up on your brake linings, rotors and drums. Hearing noises? It might be your exhaust system. Check for damage or leakage. Want great fuel economy and low-level emissions? Schedule an engine tune-up! Temperatures are on the rise - give your HVAC system a look over and have it serviced if you think your system is having issues. Fill up your tires to the proper PSI levels and check your tread levels. Look for uneven tread wear or excessive wear and tear. Your lighting is a vital component in your vehicle. Be sure to check over all the lighting fixtures and ensure that bulbs are in proper working condition. If your headlights look foggy, try reconditioning them first. Don’t forget about your windshield wipers. April is known for heavy rain showers. Don’t be caught in the rain with old, worn out wipers! Your Service Appointment Is Waiting Here!

Thinking of hitting the road this spring for a little family-fun adventure? We sure hope you are! We’re also hoping that you’ve stopped in to have your vehicle regularly serviced by the team here at Zappone Granville, and we wanted to use this week’s blog to give you our guide to packing the perfect road trip kit! So, whether your travels are going to take you near or far - we have you covered. Take a look at our guide below and be sure to stop in to see our team if you’re looking to upgrade your ride before heading out for all of those spring adventures! Be sure to pack these items: A GPS or smartphone map app Light, non-messy snacks to snack on & drinks to keep everyone hydrated Emergency car kit (these can be purchased at your local auto store or you can create your own) Non-emergency car kit (tissues, napkins, wipes, travel-size toiletries, trash bag, laundry bag) Create a rockin’ playlist before you leave Medications that may be needed along the way Portable chargers for smartphones, GPS, additional gadgets Sun protection (if you’re headed somewhere sunny but we recommend regardless) Make a plan & stick to it Book, magazine, something to keep you entertained (as long as you’re in the passenger seat) Have items that you recommend? Add them to the list and be sure to let us know what additional items you never travel without! Don’t forget to have these items located in an each to reach spot so you’re not struggling to grab something in the event that you need it! Service Before You Go!

Looking for a better understanding of tire terms? We got you covered! This week, we are providing you with our guide to tire terms for a better understanding. Check out those terms below and be sure to give us a call if you’re ready to upgrade to a new set of tires or a new CJDR completely! We’re here to help you and your vehicle! Just ask and we will guide you in the right direction. See you soon! Air Pressure: The amount of air inside the tire pressing outward on each square inch of the tire. Air pressure is expressed in kPa (kilopascal) or psi (pounds per square inch). Accessory Weight: The combined weight of optional accessories. Some examples of optional accessories are an automatic transmission, power windows, power seats, and air conditioning. Aspect Ratio: The relationship of a tire's height to its width. Belt: A rubber-coated layer of cords between the plies and the tread. Cords may be made from steel or other reinforcing materials. Bead: The tire bead contains steel wires wrapped by steel cords that hold the tire onto the rim. Bias Ply Tire: A pneumatic tire in which the plies are laid at alternate angles less than 90 degrees to the centerline of the tread. Cold Tire Pressure: The amount of air pressure in a tire, measured in kPa (kilopascal) or psi pounds per square inch) before a tire has built up heat from driving. Curb Weight: The weight of a motor vehicle with standard and optional equipment including the maximum capacity of fuel, oil, and coolant, but without passengers and cargo. DOT Markings: A code molded into the sidewall of a tire signifying that the tire is in compliance with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. The DOT code includes the Tire Identification Number (TIN), an alphanumeric designator which can also identify the tire manufacturer, production plant, brand, and date of production. GVWR: Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. GAWR FRT: Gross Axle Weight Rating for the front axle. GAWR RR: Gross Axle Weight Rating for the rear axle. Intended Outboard Sidewall: The side of an asymmetrical tire that must always face outward when mounted on a vehicle. Kilopascal (kPa): The metric unit for air pressure. Light Truck (LT-Metric) Tire: A tire used on light duty trucks and some multipurpose passenger vehicles. Load Index: An assigned number ranging from 1 to 279 that corresponds to the load of a tire. Maximum Inflation Pressure: The maximum air pressure to which a cold tire can be inflated. The maximum air pressure is molded onto the sidewall. Maximum Load Rating: The load rating for a tire at the maximum permissible inflation pressure for that tire. Maximum Loaded Vehicle Weight: The sum of curb weight, accessory weight, vehicle capacity weight, and production options weight. Normal Occupant Weight: The number of occupants a vehicle is designed to seat multiplied by 68 kg (150 lb). Occupant Distribution: Designated seating positions. Outward Facing Sidewall: The side of an asymmetrical tire that has a particular side that faces outward when mounted on a vehicle. The side of the tire that contains a whitewall, bears white lettering, or bears manufacturer, brand, and/or model name molding that is higher or deeper than the same moldings on the other sidewall of the tire. Passenger (P-Metric) Tire: A tire used on passenger cars and some light duty trucks and multipurpose vehicles. Recommended Inflation Pressure: Vehicle manufacturer's recommended tire inflation pressure as shown on the tire placard. Radial Ply Tire: A pneumatic tire in which the ply cords that extend to the beads are laid at 90 degrees to the centerline of the tread. Rim: A metal support for a tire and upon which the tire beads are seated. Sidewall: The portion of a tire between the tread and the bead. Speed Rating: An alphanumeric code assigned to a tire indicating the maximum speed at which a tire can operate. Traction: The friction between the tire and the road surface. The amount of grip provided. Tread: The portion of a tire that comes into contact with the road. Treadwear Indicators: Narrow bands, sometimes called wear bars, that show across the tread of a tire when only 1.6 mm (1/16 in) of tread remains. UTQGS (Uniform Tire Quality Grading Standards): A tire information system that provides consumers with ratings for a tire's traction, temperature, and treadwear. Ratings are determined by tire manufacturers using government testing procedures. The ratings are molded into the sidewall of the tire. Vehicle Capacity Weight: The number of designated seating positions multiplied by 68 kg (150  lb) plus the rated cargo load. Vehicle Maximum Load on the Tire: Load on an individual tire due to curb weight, accessory weight, occupant weight, and cargo weight. Vehicle Placard: A label permanently attached to a vehicle showing the vehicle capacity weight and the original equipment tire size and recommended inflation pressure. Choose Your Dream CJDR Here!

Yes, winter is STILL HERE. I know we’re all dreaming of pool days and warm sunshine but unfortunately, that time is not here yet. We’re still dealing with some pretty chilly temperatures which means your vehicle is taking a beating! That’s not good for you, your vehicle or your wallet. So, this week we have a few vehicle tips to ensure you and your vehicle make it through the winter happy and healthy. Well, for your vehicle it needs to be serviced and for yourself, take some vitamin C and hope that you don’t get a nasty flu! Anyways, back to the winter vehicle tips - check them out below and stop in or give us a call to schedule your service appointment before it’s too late! Don’t skimp on service: I know a lot of drivers think skipping on service isn’t that bad for their vehicle. When in fact, it’s terrible for their vehicle! We recommend spending a few minutes with our team and have our mechanics check for any leaks, badly worn hoses, or other parts needing to be replaced or repaired. A simple maintenance check-up will make a big difference in frigid temperatures and will give you peace of mind when you’re on the road. Know your vehicle: We hope you know your vehicle, but how well do you know it? Do you know how your vehicle handles in snowy or icy winter weather conditions? We hope you do especially living here in New York when weather can be a bit wacky at times. Regardless, we want you to drive slow, take your time, and ALWAYS clean off your vehicle completely before leaving. Also, a great set of winter tires can also enhance your success in winter weather and even having the correct PSI will offer better driving results. Be smart & stock your vehicle: As you know, winter weather is unpredictable and road conditions are no better, that’s why you should be prepared for anything and everything in the winter months. We recommend having a plan and proper gear packed in the event of an emergency. What should you pack? We recommend packing a small snow shovel, ice scraper, and snow broom to clean off or around your vehicle. Also, jumper cables, a flare, and emergency markers are great tools to have if you ever find yourself stuck needing assistance. You should ALWAYS keep a blanket, warm clothing, a phone charger, and something to eat or drink in your vehicle in case of an emergency. Set yourself up for success and let’s make it through the rest of the winter! Service With Our Professionals Today!

Beep! Beep! It’s time for an adventure and we know as a CJDR driver, you’re going the distance in 2019. Whether your new year travels will take you far and beyond or close to home, we want to help set you up for success if you ever find yourself in an emergency. Below, you will find our emergency supply kit. We recommend that you designate an old bag as your “emergency kit bag” and start gathering these items up. While we know you might have most of these items somewhere within your home, you might want to invest in some new supplies to ensure it is in proper working condition. Also, don’t forget that your vehicle is a huge factor when it comes to emergencies. Whether it is the weather or road conditions causing your problems, you want to know that your vehicle won’t be the next thing to give you an issue. We recommend stopping in to see our service team for a little health check-up or meet with our sales team for a test drive in a capable new CJDR. Either way, don’t mess around - get in here and see our helpful team at Zappone! Our Emergency Supply List: First Aid Kit - either purchased from a store or made at home A small fire extinguisher Jumper cables Rain ponchos/ rain jacket A tarp, rags, or towels Flashlight and extra batteries Duct tape Scent-free baby wipes, hand sanitizer Drinking water and non-perishable snacks Multipurpose tool Ice scraper, gloves, boots, hat (in winter months) Blanket, jacket, and a pair of sneakers Take your emergency kit to the next level with the following items: Phone charger Clean, empty, refillable gas jug Necessary fluids, windshield washer fluid, brake fluid, etc. Cash for gas or other items in case credit/ debit cards are not accepted. Stay Safe In A New CJDR, Choose Yours Here!

The Check Engine Light - more formally known as the Malfunction Indicator Lamp - is an indication from your vehicle’s engine computer that something within your system is wrong or not working properly. While this can be anything major from a bad catalytic converter or something as minor as a loose gas cap, it’s important to address this issue as soon as possible. Yes, you can choose to purchase inexpensive code readers and attempt to diagnose the problem yourself, but that doesn’t always mean the problem is fixed. While these code readers can help you diagnose the problem and turn off the light - but those issues can resurface once again in the future, so it’s a good idea to have a trained professional take a look if you find that your problems are more than just a loose gas cap. When that little light flicks on, don’t ignore it. For the love of the car gods, don’t ignore it. Not only is it bad for your vehicle and your sanity, but also your wallet. When your Check Engine Light shows up, your first step should be to pull over and take a look under the hood. We understand that most drivers want to try to squeeze every mile out of their engine that they can, but in the end, doing so is going to cost you and will rack up the bill when you finally decide to stop in and see us. BUT, your Check Engine Light could be sending mixed signals, too. Sometimes your Check Engine Light will show up on the dash and there could be nothing actually wrong with your vehicle. Confusing, we know! Some of the most common occurrences for that are: A loose gas cap Faulty oxygen sensor Spark plug wires Mass airflow sensor Regardless of what the issue might be, it’s always a good idea to know your vehicle, what it needs, and when to take its’ issues seriously. If you're in need of a service appointment, don’t hesitate - schedule your appointment with our service team today! Schedule Your Service Appointment Today!

Don’t be left stranded out in the cold this year, let me tell you how to change your dead battery from the comfort of your very own driveway! Or parts store or wherever you may be with your vehicle and its’ dead battery. Take a look at our steps below and be sure to schedule a service appointment with our team to have your battery tested so you’re not caught blindsided by a dead battery! If you’re ready to swap out the old, check out our service specials to see if you can save some cash while swapping in a new battery! Steps to changing your dead battery: Pop open the hood of your vehicle, locate the battery, and identify the positive from the negative terminals. Negative terminals tend to be black in color and positive are usually red. Using a wrench, loosen the nut that secures the negative terminal, then remove the cable from the post. Repeat this with the positive terminal. ALWAYS DO THE NEGATIVE PORT FIRST. Now, it is time for us to remove the holding clamp that secures the battery in place. Depending on what type of clamp your vehicle has will depend on if you need a wrench or not. Unfasten any fasteners holding the battery in place and remove the battery from the holding tray once there is nothing keeping it secure. Keep in mind batteries tend to be heavy, so ask for help if you need it. Next, is a good idea to clean the holding tray, cables, nuts/ bolts, and posts. A simple soap and water solution will take care of this. If you notice any corrosion, use an anti-corrosive solution and clean it off. Corrosion can hinder the connection from your battery to your vehicle. Give the parts enough time to dry completely before moving onto the next steps. Insert your new battery into the holding tray and secure it with the holding clamp we removed earlier. Before connecting the terminals, use an anti-corrosion solution on the posts. This will prevent deposits of corrosion from allowing the batter to properly charging. Begin with the positive posts and repeat with the negative. After applying the grease, attach the cables back to the ports, positive first and negative last. We’re almost done! Give the battery a wiggle to ensure that it is locked in place and isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. Before closing up shop, try starting your vehicle to make sure it starts and everything is connected properly! When your vehicle is running and you know things are good, close the hood and get on with the rest of your day! Hoo-rah! You did it! If you need assistance or have questions, give our team a call and we will be more than happy to help you! Contact Our Parts Department For help!

Have you ever found yourself filled with rage driving down the road? Either some knucklehead cut you off or someone forgot to use their blinker and all of a sudden you’re ready to give them a piece of your mind or flip them the bird. Now, we are all about positive energy here at Zappone and we want to give you some of our defensive driving tactics to help keep you cool, calm, and collected out on the roadway. Well, of course, these tips will also help keep you safe, as well. Check them out below and we hope you will start using them during your everyday commute to ensure a better, safer driving experience for everyone! Anticipate other drivers to make mistakes. Always be in control of your vehicle and keep your focus on the road. Don’t let cell phones, the radio, friends, or a heated argument distract you from being a safe driver. Slow down and take your time on the road. Stay with the flow of traffic, but be mindful of speed limits and other drivers coming to a stop or changing lanes. Click it or get a ticket. You’ve heard this for years and we’re telling you to do the same. Don’t risk your life or someone else’s because you’re not a fan of seatbelts. Play it safe and yield when you’re not sure what another driver intends to do. Even if you have the right of way, give the other driver the benefit of the doubt and let them pass first. Watch for stop lights and stop signs. Distractions will happen, but driving through a red light or a stop sign can lead to some potentially tragic collisions. Use your blinkers, always. Driving isn’t a guessing game, don’t make other drivers guess where you’re turning or if you are. Use your blinkers and hope they have the same driving courtesy as you do. Take a deep breath and don’t let road rage creep up. People make mistakes on the road and it is our job to let them go, proceed to our destination, and be safe while doing so. Don’t let the actions of other drivers negatively affect you. Choose a safe vehicle with a high safety rating to ensure that every drive will be a safe one from start to finish. Leave some space between you and other drivers. Collisions happen most often when a driver is too close and another stops too quick. Give your fellow motorists some space and prevent those collisions from happening in the first place! Drive Safe In A New Ride From Zappone!

Buying a new vehicle is a big step. But, when you choose to buy from Zappone Chrysler Jeep Dodge Granville, you’re making the best choice when it comes to who you should buy from. Our dedicated sales team will assist you from beginning to end while providing you with an outstanding car buying experience. As a customer, there are a few things that can help make the process a little bit easier. Those items are listed for your convenience below and we hope to see you in our showroom soon purchasing your next new Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge or RAM. Here’s what to bring: Your driver’s license The title for your trade-in vehicle (if you are trading in your old vehicle) Your current vehicle registration for trade-in ((if you are trading in your old vehicle) Proof of car insurance The account number for your trade-in’s loan The account number for your new/ current loan Rebate eligibility documents Why bring these items? A hassle-free car buying experience is what our number one goal is for each, every customer that passes through our door. These items will ensure that the process is stress-free and goes smoothly from A to B. Bringing these items with you will save you time and energy when it comes time to signing those papers and driving off into the sunset! Browse Our Online Inventory Here!

Did you know that gas isn't the only fluid that goes in your vehicle? I’m sure you did, but do you know exactly what those fluids are and what they do for your vehicle? If you’re a newbie car owner like me, you probably didn’t know that some of the following fluids are very important. This week we are going over what those important fluids are and what their main job is within your vehicle. Brake Fluid: Brake fluid is one of the most straightforward fluids that your vehicle needs. In order to stop when you want to stop, you need brake fluid. This fluid should ALWAYS be kept at capacity and if your brakes are not on their best behavior, it may be time to re-up on the brake fluid. You can check the brake fluid level by looking through the reservoir on the driver side and it should be a golden color. Anything but a gold color should be changed or change the fluid every two years. Power Steering Fluid: We all like a smooth driving experience and power steering fluid ensures that. If you hear any creaking or have a tough steering wheel, you may need to fill up. You should be checking your power steering fluid monthly or at least every time you have your vehicle serviced. Maintaining this will prevent leak based issues that could leave you with a hefty bill. Coolant: This is one crucial fluid and if not properly filled, can lead to your engine overheating. This 50/50 mixture of water and antifreeze keeps your engine at an optimal temperature that will prevent it from getting too cold or too hot. Checking your coolant reservoir can keep you from having numerous issues including a gasket leak. These levels should be checked at least every 6 months and coolant should be flushed and replaced every 2 years. Engine Oil: Your vehicle runs on oil - did ya know? Engine oil lubricates the engine and absorbs heat, without engine oil your vehicle wouldn’t go far before overheating and possibly blowing up. Checking the oil can be easy, pop open the hood, remove the oil cap, take the dipstick out, and wipe it off on a used towel. Reinsert the dipstick and where the oil hits, is your current engine oil level. The color of the oil will indicate whether or not it is time to change the oil. Give the vehicle ample time to cool down before you decide to work on the engine. Windshield Washer Fluid: We like to see, right? Well, I hope so. This fluid should be obvious as to why you need and want the proper amount in the reservoir and ready to go whenever you need to use it. This can oftentimes be filled when you have regular service or just stop by your local automotive store and pick some up! Service With Zappone!

Summer is heating up and we want to get you on the road exploring all that Upstate New York has to offer. This week, we’ve dedicated our blog to find some must-hit road trip destinations that will offer a ton of fun for you and the family or just you and the dog. However you want to travel, these spots will be a great starting point for your summertime adventures! Check them out below and let us know of any spots that you are planning to visit! Niagara Falls One of the nation’s top tourist attractions, Niagara Falls is a landmark in our backyard that needs to be seen in order to take in just how beautiful the falls truly are. Whether you plan to see the falls by land or boat, it’ll be an experience of a lifetime! The surrounding area has a lot to do when you’ve had enough of the falls. From little shops to Whirlpool State Park, the Niagara Gorge Trail, or even the Seneca Niagara Casino - there is something to do for everyone! Fort Ticonderoga If you’re a history buff, you’ll want to make Fort Ticonderoga a stop on your summer road trip list. Located at the southern end of Lake Champlain, you’ll get to see what life was like in the mid-1700’s. With a musket firing demonstration each day at 11 a.m. sharp and the cannon demonstration at 2 p.m. - you’ll be blown away, no pun intended. Fill your day with a lesson on military history and enjoy a picnic atop Mount Defiance and enjoy a panoramic view of Lake Champlain and the High Peaks. Or even take a boat tour or rent a canoe and explore the fort by water! Howe Caverns Do you enjoy going through caves and see what beautiful creations lie beneath? This underground limestone cavern is the largest cave in the Northeast that is open to the public and the second most visited natural attraction in New York State. Millions of years in the making, go below the surface for a 90-minute walking tour or boat ride to see the stalactites, stalagmites, and an underground lake. Or take advantage of the zip line, ropes course, rock wall, and more when you resurface! Watkins Glen We have a need for speed and if you do too, you’ll want to make a stop at Watkins Glen. During the summer months, Watkins Glen hosts racing weekends that feature sports cars, endurance, and stock car events. If you’re up to a challenge, you’ll have the option to drive your own vehicle on the 3.4-mile Grand Prix Circuit! And, just a few minutes away from Seneca Lake, you can take advantage of all the things this area has to offer! So, relax it is summer after all and it is time to get you outdoors and enjoying all that Upstate has to offer! Did we miss any great road trip spots? Let us know! Road Trip In A New Jeep!

Summer is here and the kids will soon be begging to go on that road trip you’ve promised. And we want to make your life a little easier. So, after you visit us at Zappone in Granville to purchase your new chariot, oops, ride I mean, follow our essential road trip list of items to pack to ensure a fun-filled, stress-free adventure! Snacks to munch on - chips, veggies, fruits, popcorn are all great choices for kids Cooler with drinks/food (water and juice is a must, it’s important to stay hydrated) Reusable cup for every passenger - eliminate throw-away cups and garbage inside the vehicle Change for tolls - you’ll probably encounter a toll-booth along the way, bring dollar bills and change to make this a quick and easy process Roll of paper towels/ napkins/ tissues - messes can happen, be prepared Hand wipes/ shout wipes Car chargers to keep everyone’s phone juiced up Neck pillow & blanket - for nap time Pack a sweater for when chilly temps creep up on you Toothbrush & paste - long drives = fuzzy mouth Current registration/ insurance cards Flashlight with new batteries - and extra batteries just in case Towel/ blanket for pavement in case you have to change a tire Check that your spare is filled, not flat Jumper cables Tire pressure gauge Fill your tires to the proper psi before leaving AAA card/ number to roadside assistance, if you have these service And there you have it, our guide on packing the essential road trip items! Obviously, clothes - don’t forget to pack your clothes for the trip! If you are planning to take a road trip, schedule a service appointment with us to get your vehicle tuned-up before heading out on the open road. Get A New Road Trip Ride From Zappone