5 Things a New Window Sticker will tell you

New car window stickers offer more information than a description and price of the vehicle.

They provide us some very useful information, as well as the standard option descriptions that are added to that particular
vehicle.










1. QR Code

If you have the smart phone technology.. a QR Code is printed next to the vehicles description. Scan that QR code into your phone and you now have all the information about that vehicle, right on your phone. Easier to keep the information stored on the phone rather than trying to remember if it had the Rain-Sensor wipers or not. 

2. Fuel Economy and Environmental Impact
Not just the MPG averages for city/hwy. It gives savings in fuel costs over a 5 year comparison to the average new vehicle. Average annual fuel cost, Greenhouse Gas Rating and Smog Rating as well.. Good information for overall expense of that vehicle.






3. Safety Ratings No need to go searching around government websites for the scores. The star ratings are listed on the window sticker. How many stars does your vehicle have?












4. Parts Content Information
What does that mean? Where was this vehicle built?
This section tells you where it was assembled. Where the engine and transmission were built and the percentages. Just so you know.







5. 4G LTE - WiFi Equipped 
These days, staying connected is important. Breaking down out in the middle of nowhere is not any ones idea of a good time. Not being able to contact a tow truck is even worse. Playing games, map reading, phone calls, social media, and more.That is WiFi connected.


So next time you are strolling the Dealership lot.. take a better look at that window sticker and see, what else is there to learn.. and don't forget, scan that QR Code.

Wiper Blades | Is it Time to Change

When rain, dirt, sleet or snow happen, it's important to have the right wiper blades for the job. Wiper blades have come a long way since they first became standard issue on vehicles, so we invite you to learn more about these devices and how to properly maintain them.

Mary Anderson, invented the wiper Blades in 1903 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MaryAnderson

Cadillac introduced vacuum-driven wipers in the 20s and other manufacturers soon followed suit.

Quick Tips:

§      Listen for slapping, screeching or vibrating.

§      Slapping means the rubber has torn from the arm.

§      Screeching indicates there is friction between the glass and the blade.

§      Vibrating means the blade is worn or not mounted on the arm correctly.

§      Look at the wipe pattern.

If you see a lace pattern that means the rubber has bent too far.

If you see a filmy haze after wiping, there most likely is oil or road debris on the rubber.

Cracked or hardened rubber will result in streaks when the blades attempt to remove water.

§      Examine the blades.

Look for splits or gouges in the rubber, discoloration or ragged edges.

§      Have you replaced your Wiper Blades with in the last 12 months?

Wiper Blade Maintenance

You may need to replace your wiper blades if:

§      Your current blades leave streaks or miss sections of your windshield

§      Your current blades leave a haze on the windshield

§      You haven’t replaced them in the past 12 months or don’t recall ever replacing them

Did you know?

Maintenance tips:

§      You should Inspect the windshield wiper blades every six months for wear and damage, and change at least once a year.

§      Do not wait to replace them. Eyestrain from poor visibility can lead to driver fatigue.  Remembering to inspect your wiper blades will help avoid potentially dangerous situations.

§      Give your wiper blade rubber elements a quick cleaning when filling up with gas. After the windshield has been cleaned using service center's washer solvent and squeegee, wipe down the rubber with a paper towel. Doing so removes any loose dirt and most road grime that can lead to streaking, smearing or hazing.

§      Use an ice scraper as much as possible when de-icing vehicles. Allow plenty of time to warm up the vehicle with the defroster on "high" to loosen as much ice and snow as possible. Do not use windshield wipers as ice scrapers; it causes a high rate of damage to the wiper blades

What causes windshield wiper wear?

§      Sun: ultraviolet light and ozone deterioration

§      Oil: car waxes and exhaust hold rubber-deteriorating oil

§      Airborne debris: sand, mud and dust carried in the wind

§      Moisture: Acid rain and salt water (in moist air both near the shore and inland)

§      Temperature: extreme cold and heat cause hardening and softening of the rubber element

This is NOT a good idea...

Indicators to look for:

§      Streaking: blurry vision caused by dry or dirty rubber blades

§      Chattering: skipping of the blade caused by a permanent set or curve in the rubber of old blades

§      Lift-off: over time the arm tension deteriorates causing the blades to lift

§      Squealing: worn blade edges cause excessive friction and ultimately noise

§      Windshield scratches: in extreme cases, the wiper can deteriorated enough to cause scratches on your windshield

Did you know?

§      Wiper blades that are worn can cause excessive load on the wiper motor and linkage and lead to premature failure

§      If the blade is worn to the point where the metal frame can come into contact with the windshield at any point of rotation, then scratching/grooving can occur. In some cases windshield replacement would be the only fix.

§      If the blades do not clean well, the tendency is to use your washer fluid repeatedly until the windshield is clean. This generally causes excessive washer system and washer fluid use and could end up costing you as much as replacement blades or even more

§      Driver and passenger wiper blades can be different sizes

§       

Types of wiper blades

There are many different types of wiper blades to fit any requirement and budget.  The better the blade, the better the performance and the longer the life.

Choose the ones that are right for you.

§      All-Season Wiper Blades

    Good replacement standard blades for occasional drivers who are value conscious

    Polymer wiper blade designed to resist rusting, chipping or bending.

    Coating on the rubber parts helps reduce streaking, friction and noise

    Aerodynamic design helps reduce wind lift

    Pre-installed universal adapter fits most wiper arms directly and makes installation easy

§      Performance Wiper Blades

    Better option for most drivers

    High strength steel blade with easy fit assembly for quick installation

    Has corrosion-resistant epoxy coatings designed to resist rusting, chipping or bending

    Made from natural rubber, which helps reduce streaking, friction and noise

    Fits virtually all wiper arms directly making installation easy

§      All-Season Plus Wiper Blades

    Great option for heavy highway drivers

    Includes all of the features of the All-Season blades plus the following:

    Extra-thick, rugged steel superstructure for better strength

    Pre-installed universal adapter fits most wiper arms directly

§      Winter Wiper Blades

This specialty blade includes the following characteristics:

  Rubber boot helps prevent snow and ice build-up

  Riveted steel superstructure for strength and durability

Brought to you by Biggs Cadillac Buick GMC Parts andService Department

http://www.gm.ca/gm/english/services/goodwrench/wipers/

Keep it between the lines,

Happy Motoring

Tips to avoid hitting Deer | 10 Tips | Oh Deer

It is peak season for Deer to be found crossing the roads and being hit by cars.

• The temperature is falling

• The fields are being picked and plowed

• The Hunters are out

• and the Deer are moving.

1. The high peak times for them to be crossing the roads are between 5 and 6 in the morning and between 6 and 10 at night.

2. Deer often move in groups, should you see one, chances are there are more around.

3. If you spot a Deer on the road and they freeze up - Deer in the headlights - turn off your headlights for a brief moment, then turn them back on. This may allow the Deer to move off the road and help you to avoid an accident.

4. It is said that October and November are the peak months, but that can be proven to be just the start of things, especially in Northeastern North Carolina.

5. If you have others in the car with you, have them look out for Deer as well. More eyes on the situation will help to spot them faster.

6. If you spot a Deer slow down, and look out, additional Deer or other animals may be around.

7. Break firmly when you notice a deer in your path. Many serious accidents can happen when
drivers swerve to avoid them.

8. Be careful to keep your wheel straight. Swerving can cause you to lose control of your car, and you could end up hitting on coming traffic or worse, rolling over or in a ditch.

9. After an accident with a Deer, call the local sheriff or 911 to report the accident, you will need it for your insurance claim.

10. Be careful, there are loved ones at home waiting for you, and for Bambi as well....:-)

We have had a large number of Deer incidents with our Collision Center customers already this year, and the season had just begun.

Keep it between the lines,

Happy motoring

Cadillac's Concept Elmiraj

                         Cadillac has shown their ability to level the playing field when it comes to the Luxury car market. For years the market has been dominated by manufacturers overseas. Cadillac is now upping their game, by introducing another higher end Luxury concept car, the Elmiraj. In 2011, it was the introduction of the Convertible Ciel, we all hope to see go into production soon. There has been talk, but nothing announced as of yet.

The design concept was inspired by the 1967 Eldorado two-door coupe, the Ciel, as well as the CTS-V coupe.

The recently unveiled concept car has 22 inch aluminum wheels, 4.5 liter twin turbo V8 engine with 500 HP, rear wheel drive, measuring in at 205 inches long, and it will be built with lightweight metals to boost fuel efficiency.

The interior is sexy. Back-lit titanium trim, custom designed high performance seats, and seating for four. Brazilian rosewood, camel leather upholstery, and 10 inch retractable touch screen infotainment system, and more.

This Sexy High End Luxury Cadillac Elmiraj is said to be going into production with in the next two years.

Cadillac is been combining Art and Science in their line of cars, and the
Elmiraj definitely is a true picture of that.

It even had Jay Leno's attention.

 What does this Elmiraj bring to the table?
Everything Cadillac stands for. The New Standard of the World. Let the Competition bring it.

Keep it between the lines,
Happy Motoring

2014 Cadillac ELR - As Jay Leno Reviews it.

Luxury doesn't have to be Big

Luxury doesn't have to be Big -

 Dictionary Definition: lux·u·ry
[luhk-shuh-ree] noun, plural lux·u·ries, adjective noun
1. a material object, service, etc., conducive to sumptuous living, usually a delicacy, elegance, or refinement of living rather than a necessity: Gold cufflinks were a luxury not allowed for in his budget.
2. free or habitual indulgence in or enjoyment of comforts and pleasures in addition to those necessary for a reasonable standard of well-being: a life of luxury on the French Riviera.
3. a means of ministering to such indulgence or enjoyment: This travel plan gives you the luxury of choosing which countries you can visit.
4. a pleasure out of the ordinary allowed to oneself:

          It's a refinement, an indulgence, an enjoyment or pleasure. All of which are in the New Buick Encore.  The Encore offers you all the luxuries of Buick in a smaller package with beautifully styled interior finishes. You are afforded room to carry bigger items with the versatility of the rear folding seats (48.4 cubic feet), better gas mileage (23/30 est.)

             You might not expect a 5-passenger crossover to be as finely crafted as a Swiss watch,
as tech-savvy as your dream entertainment center and agile enough to maneuver through any narrow city street.
But you will, when you drive an Encore.
The luxury crossover with premium materials, ingenious design, flexible storage and purposeful technology.
It’s like we knew exactly what you were missing in a crossover, and created the versatile Encore for you.

Encore offers all the Technology afforded in other Buick Models including:

• Remote Start
• Rainsense Wipers
• Rearview Camera system
• Memory Seats & Mirrors
• Front Park Assist
• Rear Park Assist
• Voice Activated Controls
• Buick Intellilink
• USB & Bluetooth Connectivity
• Safety afforded by OnStar

        Buick's Smaller Luxury Crossover Encore, has "Active On-Demand" all-wheel drive system similar to Enclave, makes its operation imperceptible to the driver.
It's designed to give Encore the fluid drive characteristics and sure-footed traction by using a magnetic charge to engage a clutch at the rear axle preemptively when the vehicle is at rest.

If you haven't given the Buick Encore a look, maybe now is the time. You like Luxury. Test Drive the New Buick Encore. You can afford this Luxury....

Keep it between the lines,
Happy Motoring

Save your Gas Money..

Okay.. So Gas Prices have gone down a Bit...for now.. we know that this is probably only a temporary thing.. 
It's not like we will see gas prices from the past 

2003: National Average $1.72 a gallon
1993: National Average $1.17 a gallon
We don't need to go back any further, do we? Those were the days my friend....
If you are not driving a Hybrid vehicle that gets an increase MPG, you are probably trying to figure out ways to decrease your driving time, and or increase your mpg. Anything, just as long as it doesn't include trips to the gas station to refill your tank. Sound familiar? We are all trying to get the most bang for our buck at the pump. I would rather be using that Gas Fund for other things... Dinner out, a Movie, New outfit, you know....
Here are a several ways to save you a few mpg. I am sure that you can incorporate some of these into your everyday driving habits. The old saying "A penny saved is a penny earned."can turn into dollars if you keep at it.
Learn some new habits, pick the ones that you can really do, and try them out for awhile. You could find that you Can get better mileage out of your vehicle.

Here we go:
 #1. Use your Cruise Control and/or your Overdrive. 
If your vehicle is equipped with it, use it. It will save you from the up and down changing of your speed. More gas is used when you are not regulating your speed. 
#2. Do the speed limit on the highways and byways.
 The national speed limit was reduced years ago in a effort to reduce the gas consumption. The faster you go the more gas is consumed. So even though going 70 mph will get you there faster, make sure you have money to burn, because that is exactly what you are doing. Burn baby Burn.
#3. Avoid Quick Starts/ Fast Stops. 
Taking off from the line (stop)in a hurry, burns a lot of fuel. Coming to a stop abruptly can cost you too. Take your foot off the accelerator and coast a bit before stopping for a traffic light or a stop sign.
#4.Take the Junk out of the Trunk. 
Added weight is added cost in fuel. By taking out the extra weight you increase your fuel efficiency. Get that extra bag of sand, mulch, or other items out of the bed of the truck, and that box of items you keep forgetting to donate.
#5. Keep your Tires Inflated properly. 
Checking the air pressure in your tires is so important! It could save your life, save the tread wear and it can save you money at the pump..up to 5% more fuel is required to roll a set of under-inflated(5 to 8 psi) tires.
#6. Do Not Top off the Gas. 
When you are pumping  gas, stop when the pump shuts off automatically.Extra room in the gas tank is needed for the gasoline to expand.  Topping off the tank can cause the extra gas to overflow into your vehicle’s vapor collection system. This can cause your engine to run less efficiently (waste of gas and money). If you end up spilling fuel when topping off- you have just wasted more money.
#7. Tighten your Gas Cap. 
Gas caps are play a large part when it comes to fuel efficiency . They keep fumes and gas evaporation from escaping the gas tank(your vehicle will use this evaporated gas). Gas caps also help protect the fuel system of the vehicle. They stop damaging water, dirt, and other contaminants from clogging up the fuel delivery system that is vital to your engines performance.
#8. Don't accelerate uphill.
Build up speed before an going up a steep incline instead of gunning it once you are going up hill, and then maintain it on the way up. Coast on the way down for additional fuel efficiency.
#9. Avoid Rooftop Carriers. 
Carriers are great for when you are going on Vacation, but just know, it will cost at the pump. Todays vehicles are designed to have minimal wind resistance when driving on the highway, so avoid carrying things on your roof. Find and use an aerodynamic carrier to help minimize drag.
#10.Check your Air Filter.
Replacing a badly clogged Air Filter in an older carbureted engine will improve your fuel economy up to 14%.
#11 Get a Tune Up. 
A properly tuned engine can improve your fuel efficiency by as much as 4%. If you have a faulty Oxygen Sensor, fixing it can boost your mileage up to 40%.
#12 Avoid Idling.
Try to avoid traveling during peak traffic hours when you are likely to get stuck in it, and avoid waiting in lines at a drive thru. It can cost you money as well. Idling can use a quarter to half a gallon per hour, depending on your engine and if you are running your A/C.

So there you go. 12 things you can do to save you Gas Money. There are other ways to cut your gas consumption, and raise your fuel efficiency, but these are some of the big ones. Hope that this helps you keep that money in your wallet. You deserve a nice night out or day at the beach.

Keep it between the lines.
Happy Motoring.
 
Biggs Cadillac Buick GMC Trucks

What is a QR Code?

“What is this odd looking thing that seems to be showing up everywhere? I’ve seen it on Billboards and in Ads and a whole bunch of other places. What is this?”  

“It’s a QR Code.” 

 “A what?… What does that mean…?”

Let me explain… Q is short for Quick, R is short for Response, Therefore QR Code.

           In today’s society, most people want information immediately, and a QR Code has turned out to be an easy way to achieve that. QR Codes were invented and Trademarked in Japan by Toyota in 1994 to track vehicles during the manufacturing process, and have been actively used for over 10 years.

               The reason that we ( John Q Public) had not seen much of them around until recently, is that a QR Code reader, when they were first developed, had a cost of about $4000.00 each. Therefore it was not economically feasible back then to use the QR Codes in the manner that they are used today. With the development of the ISO technology…and smart phones a whole new way of transferring information has opened up.

                 “Unlike the old bar code that was designed to be mechanically scanned by a narrow beam of light, the QR code is detected as a 2-dimensional digital image by a semiconductor image sensor and is then digitally analyzed by a programmed processor. The processor locates the three distinctive squares at the corners of the image, and normalizes image size, orientation, and angle of viewing, with the aid of a smaller square near the fourth corner. The small dots are then converted to binary numbers and validity checked with an error-correcting code.” http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/QR_code

                 QR Codes can take you to a website, a phone number, a video, and more. They can be add to any print advertising, flyers, posters, invites, TV ads, cookies, shirts, drink bottles, etc. containing:

• Product information
• Contact information
• A Special Offer 
• Event 
• A coupon
• Twitter, Facebook, MySpace IDs
• A link to a YouTube video
• Ingredient content

                 They are easily configured and easily read. If you have Internet access and a smart phone, you can do it. With Internet access you can search for a QR Code Generator, plug in the information you want and a code is generated. Different Generators offer variables like size of QR Code, Color, etc. With a smart phone you can download a QR Code Reader. There are several on the market for both  iPhone, and Android phones. If you are unsure of which one to use, just ask someone with a smart phone. QR Droid is what I use on my smart phone.

               
               

                   At Biggs Cadillac Buick GMC, we use QR codes to offer Coupons, You Tube Videos, allow easier access to web pages, service specials, and will soon be putting them on our vehicles to allow automotive shoppers and our sales staff quick access to a vehicles information, which can then be stored for future referencing or forwarded (sent) to someone who may be inquiring about said vehicle. 

                   What a great way to get all the information you need with just a simple click and touch of a phone screen!

                     I believe QR Codes will only gain in popularity in the near future, until the next Newer and Greater invention comes along. We are living in a digital world today and there is no escaping it.

Embrace the change? It could be easier than you think, informative, and enjoyable.

Keep it between the lines,

Happy Motoring.

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2012 Buick Regal eAssist

Buick is certainly keeping up by providing the latest in technology to improve fuel economy without giving up performance. The Buick Regal eAssist will be available in the fall of 2011. The eAssist will lend Buick the opportunity to appeal to a market that is looking to keep more money in their pockets when pulling up to the pumps, but still longing for a luxury sport sedan. Customers wanting Style and Fuel Economy will be able to get them in the Buick Regal eAssist. The eAssist system is a $2000.00 option on the Regal base model, mated to a 2.4L Ecotec engine.

     The Regal with eAssist uses advanced technologies and other enhancements to deliver an EPA rated 25 mpg city and 37 mpg highway. The highway mpg is unsurpassed by the higher priced Lexus Hybrid, Acura TSX and Lincoln MKZ Hybrid. This fuel saving technology improves fuel economy by 25 percent over the 2011 four-cylinder/six speed powertrain. With fuel prices closing in on $4.00 per gallon, the eAssist option should pay for itself in a little over 3 years.

     The 2.4L four-cylinder Ecotec engine paired with a state of the art lithium-ion battery system and electric motor generator that enables regenerative braking capability is the technology that makes it all happen. To understand watch the video, which explains how this system works. The eAssist system uses power stored in the battery to provide needed electrical boost in various driving scenarios, optimizing engine and transmission operation. 

Standard features include:

Driver selectable, fuel economy-optimizing mode for the a/c system, enabling more frequent and longer duration engine stop periods.

ECO gauge on the instrument panel that continuously responds to driving behavior, enabling the driver to drive with greater efficiency.

Powerflow readout in the color infotainment or driver information center that shows the flow of energy through the electric assist system, such as battery charging and electric power directed to the engine. 

      The eAssist will have a next generation six speed automatic powertrain combination (Hydra-Matic 6T40). Changes were made to improve performance. The added electric power by the eAssist allows for higher gearing to improve steady efficiency without impacting acceleration performance or durability. 

An auxiliary, electric driven transmission oil pump is added to the 6T40, to keep the transmission primed and fluid flowing when the engine shuts down at a stop. This keeps the transmission ready to perform when the driver accelerates.

Specification overview:

Four door, five passenger, FWD, midsize vehicle. Engine is 2.4L DOHC I-4 145 cu inches/2384 cc, cast aluminum, 4 valves per cylinder, 182 horsepower. Independent MacPherson strut type in front and four-link independent rear; hollow stabilizer bar, four wheel disc w/ABS (w/ESC). Wheel base-107.8 inches, overall length-190.2 inches, overall width-73.1 inches. Headroom-38.8 inches (front), Legroom-42.1 inches (front), Shoulder room-56.7 inches (front), Hip room-55.4 inches (front) and fuel tank capacity-18.5 gallons

This new eAssist option will also be available on the 2012 LaCrosse.

      Come see and test drive the newest addition to the Buick lineup at Biggs Cadillac Buick GMC. Visit us at www.biggscadillac.com or download our new Mobile App on the Android market, also available for your iPhone and iPad.  

http://www.flickr.com//photos/egmcartech/sets/72157625876965259/show/