An alternator is a mini generator that converts mechanical power from the turning crankshaft into electrical power. Thus electrical power is stored in your car’s battery and is also used to power your car’s electrical systems. As with any mechanical part, an alternator can wear out. When you need an alternator repair in Conway, AR, as your GMC dealer and Buick dealer, we can repair or replace it for you.
5 Signs You Need an Alternator Repair at Your GMC Dealer and Buick Dealer in Conway, AR
A Dead Battery
The click, click sound of a dead battery is a very disheartening sound. A battery lasts up to 5 years on average, and then it needs to be replaced. If your battery is relatively new and it suddenly dies, this can be a clue that you have a problem with your alternator. One of the alternator’s jobs is to charge the battery, but if your alternator isn’t working properly the battery won’t be recharged and will die.
Hot Metal Smell
A burning smell in your car is never a good sign. There are many possible causes for the smell, and one of these is a worn alternator. Your alternator will usually last for about 8 years, but as it degrades it loses some of its electrical generating capacity. The greater the electricity demand, the harder the alternator must work to generate it. An overworked alternator will produce a smell like burning metal.
Burning Wiring
Your alternator works perfectly, but the electricity it produces has to be supplied to the components that need it and this requires wiring. Wires run through your car to transmit power to the various components. The wiring is plastic-coated and designed to last, but it can wear and fray due to damage or environmental factors. Damaged wiring will not transmit power effectively, and will start to heat up. The smell of burning wire means we need to replace any damaged wiring ASAP.
Random Electrical Problems
Your car has a large number of components and devices that require electricity. A single electrical issue may be no cause for concern especially if it doesn’t reoccur. When the alternator starts to fail, however, it can’t generate all the electrical power your car needs, and this means that choices have to be made. Your alternator will allocate power to devices, and then need to readjust the supply to service another component. This shifting of power causes random electrical glitches.
Noisy Engine Sounds
Every driver is familiar with the sounds their car’s engine makes, and any odd sound is immediately noticeable. A damaged alternator can make grinding, whining, or humming sounds. These unnerving sounds may be caused by a damaged bearing, a misaligned belt, or a worn pulley, and they are signs you need to visit our service department.
If your alternator is failing, we may be able to repair it or we may need to replace it. Call us at Crain Buick GMC and our technicians will fix the problem for you.
Are you thinking about buying a new car? Getting financing can help you afford an even better car than you would be able to without it. Here’s how to make sure you’re getting good car financing from your GMC dealer or Buick dealer in Conway, AR.
4 Tips for Getting Good Car Financing from Your GMC Dealer or Buick Dealer in Conway, AR
1. Get Pre-Approved
One of the best things you can do when you’re looking into getting financing for your vehicle is to get pre-approved. When you get pre-approved for a loan, you’ll have a much better idea of what your budget looks like.
This is super important to figure out before you start shopping. You don’t want to get invested in a vehicle and then learn that you can’t afford it. You also don’t want to buy a cheap vehicle and realize later you could have spent more money on a better quality vehicle. Getting pre-approved helps you avoid these potential issues.
2. Consider Your Credit Score
Your credit score is going to play a big role in the type of financing and loan that you can get for your car. That’s why it’s a really good idea to sit down and review your credit score before you head to your local dealer
If you have a poor credit score, then it might be a good idea to find some ways to bring that score up before you look for a new car. Having a higher score will help you get the most out of your financing options.
3. Put Down as Large a Down Payment as Possible
When you get financing for your car, you’re going to need to put down a down payment when you’ve found a car that you like and want to buy. Some dealerships are fairly flexible about what that amount can be.
You should try to put down as much as you possibly can for your down payment. Ideally, you’ll be able to put down 20% or more. Remember, the larger your down payment, the lower your interest rates will be and therefore the lower your monthly payments will be too.
4. Make Your Payments on Time
When you’ve figured out your budget, found your car, and made your down payment, the final part of the financing process is making your monthly payments. You’ll continue making these payments until you’ve paid off the full cost plus interest of your vehicle.
It’s super important to make these payments on time. There are undoubtedly some things that can cause you to make payments late, but limit this from happening as much as possible. Late or missed payments will affect your credit score, so you’ll want to make sure that you’re paying your fees on time.
Getting a new car is exciting, and getting financing can help you afford a great-quality car. If you’re looking into financing, it’s important to bear all the above tips in mind to make sure you get the best options. Ready to find your new car? Head down to Crain Buick GMC today.
Is It Time to Replace Your Brake Pads?
A healthy braking system is necessary for the safety of both car and driver. It also helps to protect other drivers on the roads by helping to prevent accidents. Periodically replacing your brake pads is a major part of maintaining this vital vehicle safety system. But how do you know when it’s time to have the job done? Your Conway, AR area Buick dealer or GMC dealer can help you decide when it’s time for pad replacement.
Is It Time to Replace Your Brake Pads at Your Conway, AR Buick Dealer or GMC Dealer?
Normal Wear
Pad wear occurs as a result of the normal operation of your car and is to be expected over time. Worn pads can cause difficulty in stopping your car. In extreme situations, excessively-worn pads can become a factor in the safety of the driver as well as others on the road. Increased stopping time or distance can even lead to an accident. Periodically replacing this vital component of your braking system is an important part of vehicle maintenance.
Signs and Symptoms
You drive your vehicle and you know what is “normal”; so you are likely to be aware when something doesn’t feel or sound quite right. A shimmy or shudder in the steering wheel can be an indication of worn pads. Squeaking or squealing from the pads when you step on the brake pedal is another sign of wear.
If you notice that it seems to take longer to bring your car to a full stop or that stopping quickly is difficult, you may need new pads. A mushy or unusual feeling when stepping on the brake pedal can be another signal that it’s time to visit the repair shop.
Getting a Diagnosis
The recommended way to learn about the condition of your braking system, including the pads, is to see a brake specialist. The mechanics and technicians at your local dealership are highly trained in evaluating the entire system and determining what parts are needed to perform any necessary repairs. Using the latest in automotive technology, they can assess the extent of the problem and recommend OEM parts to make it right again.
Service and Repairs
If you suspect it’s time to replace your pads, your local dealership is an obvious choice for having the repair done. They will conduct a thorough examination and propose a repair plan specific to your vehicle and your repair needs. They will consult with you and keep you informed throughout the entire process. And you can rest easy knowing that experts are dedicated to returning your car to its normal, healthy condition.
Having the pads replaced is a normal part of owning and operating any vehicle. Ignoring the signs and symptoms of worn pads can lead to decreased safety, as well as more serious – and considerably more expensive – repairs in the future. When you’re ready to have the pads replaced on your car or truck, call Crain Team Conway to schedule your repair appointment with our experienced team of highly-trained brake specialists.
Your spark plugs are small, but they’re mighty! You’ll know it when you need a replacement from your GMC and Buick dealer. The signs outlined below will let you know when it’s time to get that replacement from your Conway, AR, Buick and GMC dealer, so be sure to be on high alert for them.
Signs You Need a Spark Plug Replacement From Your Conway, AR, GMC and Buick Dealer
1. Your Car Won’t Start
There are several reasons your car may be hard to start. Sometimes your battery or alternator will be having problems, so you can’t get the engine running. However, your plugs may also be the issue. They could be worn out or clogged, so they’re not producing enough spark to get your engine to turn over.
2. Your Engine Misfires
If your engine misfires, then you may have a faulty ignition coil, or perhaps you have low-quality fuel. However, a plug that’s too worn out to spark can also cause misfiring. Your engine might pop as it loses timing, then it later regains it. You might also notice your engine’s pace faltering, but it’ll catch back up shortly. This misfiring ends up damaging the catalytic converter, so come to the dealer ASAP.
3. Your Car Has Poor Fuel Economy
If your plugs are worn out, then your engine is trying extra hard to keep working to compensate. This means it’ll use up more fuel faster, lowering your fuel economy. If you notice you have to stop for gas more often than usual, then you may have an issue with your plugs.
4. Your Engine Is Noisy While Idle
If your engine is noisy while you’re idle, then you probably have a problem with your plugs. You’d better come to get them checked. The noises you can expect to hear when you need a checkup are rattling and knocking sounds that seem like they’re coming from your engine.
5. Your Car Won’t Accelerate
If you’re having trouble accelerating, then your plugs may not have enough strength to ignite the mixture of fuel and air inside your combustion chamber. This reduces your car’s ability to accelerate efficiently, and sometimes you won’t be able to accelerate much at all.
6. Your Engine Is Louder Than Usual
If one of your plugs starts malfunctioning, then your engine will start getting louder. This is because one or more of your engine’s cylinders are overworked, so it’s getting louder while it struggles to function. Get your engine inspected if it ever becomes noisier than usual.
Reasons to Visit Your Buick and GMC Dealer For Your Replacement
You deserve the best treatment when you need to replace something in your vehicle, and you’ll get that from us. We recommend coming to us for your replacement for three simple reasons:
- We’re fast: We have lots of technicians on standby to work on your vehicle
- We’re experienced: We know GMC and Buick vehicles inside and out
- We’re helpful: We want to answer any questions you have while you’re here
Come to Crain Buick GMC, as we can change your plugs with no problems. We’ll be happy to take care of all your maintenance needs, so just give us a call.
Everyone has been there: your car is running fine when suddenly, you notice the temperature gauge climb, and the engine starts to overheat. If ever you experience your vehicle overheating, you should immediately visit your GMC dealer in Conway, AR for a proper check-up. Here are some of the issues that may be causing your car to overheat:
Car Overheating? Signs to Visit Your GMC Dealer in Conway, AR
Failure of Cooling System
The cooling system removes the heat from the engine and pushes it to the outside. When something goes wrong with the cooling system, such as a leak, your vehicle’s engine may overheat. If you fail to observe proper maintenance of your cooling system, it can cause significant damage and even engine failure, putting an abrupt end to any journey.
Problem With the Radiator
If the radiator develops a build-up of dust and debris, your engine is likely to overheat. It’s important to replace the vehicle’s coolant at regular intervals. Doing so can help keep your engine from overheating and you from getting stranded on the side of the road. Before they get out of hand, a visual examination of hoses, belts, and the radiator may help detect cooling system concerns early on. If you’re unsure, you can always bring your car to your local dealer for a thorough check-up.
Damaged Belts or Hoses
Belts or hoses that aren’t operating effectively are often the sources of many overheated engines. Belts transmit power from the engine’s front to accessories that must be driven, such as the air conditioning and charging system. Coolant is carried from the engine, radiator, and heater core via the radiator and heater hoses. Having your local dealer perform regular checkups on these parts can help make sure your car is sufficiently cooled at all times.
Low Oil Levels
Motor oil helps maintain the temperature of your automobile’s engine by reducing friction. As a result, if your car is running low on oil owing to an oil leak, it may overheat. Internal engine components are lubricated by oil, which keeps them moving smoothly. Friction results from a lack of lubrication, which can cause the engine to overheat and possibly fail. If you suspect your car has oil issues, you must have a professional take a close look at it.
Damaged Thermostat
The thermostat, like any other component of your automobile, may go wrong. And if the thermostat fails, the engine’s cooling system can be compromised, potentially causing damage. Signs of a faulty thermostat include temperature fluctuations and/or coolant leaks beneath your car.
If you’re experiencing any signs of car overheating, we want to help! Visit Crain Buick GMC today and let them know. They can diagnose the problem for you and make sure that it won’t happen again in the future. You can rest assured knowing that our team is committed to taking care of all of your automotive needs with a smile on their face! So stop by today or contact us online if you have any questions about how we can be helpful!
One of the best things about choosing a new car from your local Buick or GMC dealer is the raft of new car safety features included or available. Whether it’s a suite of cameras to give you a bird’s eye view of your vehicle, or intelligent airbags to keep you safe in the event of a crash, you can be more confident than ever with these amazing features.
5 Great Car Safety Features You’ll Find on Modern Buick and GMC Cars
1. Front Pedestrian Braking
Front pedestrian braking is an intuitive system that constantly scans the road ahead for pedestrians. If someone on foot is detected ahead of you, and you haven’t already applied the brakes, the system will trigger a range of audio and visual alerts. If a collision is imminent, then the system will trigger the brakes for you, to ensure you always stop in time.
2. Forward Collison Alert
Similar to pedestrian detection, a Forward Collision Alert systems use a sophisticated suite of cameras to measure your distance to the vehicle ahead of you. If this vehicle brakes or slows down suddenly, the system will alert you to a potential crash. Not only this, but it also ensures you’re following at a safe distance by setting off an alert if you get too close.
3. Lane Change Assist
Monitoring your blind spots can be difficult, especially in heavy traffic. That’s why new Buick and GMC vehicles can now be equipped with lane change alert and side blind zone alert, which monitors your blind spot for moving vehicles. When you change lanes, the system will alert you to any vehicle that’s rapidly approaching your side blind zone when you maneuver, giving you time to take evasive action.
4. Lane Keeping Assist
The available lane-keeping assist system can give you a nudge in the right direction to keep you in the correct lane. It works by monitoring the lane lines around your car and provides gentle nudges to your steering wheel if it detects you drifting out of the lane. The system only activates if you’re not actively steering and your turn signal is not active. It can also warn you if you leave the lane.
5. Surround Vision
This available feature uses a range of high-definition cameras around your vehicle to monitor the area around your car. Not only this, but it also gives you a digital birds-eye view of your car to help with close maneuvering.
Your Buick and GMC Dealer Can Help!
Your local dealership will be able to talk you through all these features and more when you’re purchasing your new vehicle. Not all of these features are standard, so make sure you choose enough features to help you feel safe and confident while you drive.
If you want to check out these amazing features for yourself, then visit us at Crain Buick GMC today. The best way to get to know these features is to try them out for yourself, so why not schedule a test drive?
It’s not uncommon for a car owner to experience the odd radiator leak or two. Although these occurrences may seem like minor inconveniences at first, there are several things an owner should look out for that could indicate that their car needs radiator repair at either your Buick dealer or GMC dealership. Read on to find out what they are:
5 Signs You Need Radiator Repair at Your GMC Dealership or Buick Dealer
Coolant Levels Dropping
One of the most common signs that your GMC or Buick’s radiator needs repair is if you notice coolant levels steadily decreasing in your engine bay. Even though this might seem like nothing at first, it can be very costly and time-consuming if ignored and treated as such! This is because when coolant levels drop too low in your engine, it allows for the engine to overheat. This can be dangerous for your machine and costly in terms of repair costs, so this is something you should look out for.
Steam Under Your Hood
Another common sign that your radiator needs repair is when steam begins to emit from under the hood. While steam is normal for your vehicle to produce during certain circumstances, such as cold weather or when you first start up your car, it shouldn’t regularly come out of your car’s radiator. This is because steam can become an indicator that there are engine problems with the cooling system within your GMC or Buick.
Leaking Coolant
When your GMC or Buick has a radiator leak, it’s likely to have fluid dripping onto the ground underneath your engine. While this is one of the most common signs that your vehicle needs repair, you may not always be able to see any leaks; instead, you may notice wetness on your car’s floor mat or even in small puddles. If you notice leaks, be sure to get them repaired by the professionals as soon as possible!
Vehicle Is Overheating
If you find that your vehicle is frequently overheating whenever you’re driving, this can also be a significant sign that your car’s radiator needs repair. Although overheating is common in many different makes and models of vehicles, it shouldn’t last for more than 10 minutes without you worrying about it. If the problem persists and lasts for longer than this, then there might just be an issue with your vehicle’s radiator.
Sizzling or Bubbling Sound
Are you hearing a sizzling and bubbling sound coming from your car’s engine bay? Both of these sounds can be caused by leaks in the radiator, causing it to pump out hot water after it heats up in the engine. While this might not seem like a big deal, it can lead to more problems within your car’s cooling system and may cause your radiator to need repair.
Whether you drive a Buick, GMC, or any other vehicle for that matter, your car needs regular maintenance to keep it running in top condition. One of the most critical aspects is maintaining the radiator and cooling system fluids to ensure they are fully operational. Visit Crain Buick GMC today for an inspection by one of our service technicians. We offer quality repairs on all makes and models—including yours!
3 Amazing State Parks to Visit Near Conway, AR
Located in the central part of the state, just a few miles north of Little Rock, the city of Conway, AR is close to some of the largest and most beautiful state parks in the region. Whether you are planning a day trip or a camping adventure with your friends or family, these are some destinations where you can enjoy the beautiful nature that the area has to offer and get away from the routine of the city.
3 Amazing State Parks to Visit Near Conway, AR
1. Lake Ouachita State Park
Covering an area of a little over 350 acres on the western shores of Lake Ouachita, this state park is one of the most beautiful public recreation areas in the region, welcoming visitors with different amenities including numerous campsites, a marina, several miles of hiking trails, public boat ramps, and temporary exhibits. Located about 95 miles southwest of downtown Conway, Lake Ouachita State Park can be reached in about an hour and 40 minutes by car along route US-70.
Considered the largest manmade lake located entirely within the limits of the state of Arkansas, Lake Ouachita is a photographer’s paradise and a relaxing spot where you can enjoy a sunset you will hardly forget. Not far from here, following Mountain Pine Road for about a mile, you can check out the historic Three Sisters Springs Historical Site, a series of water sources that were once said to have healing and relaxing properties.
2. Mount Nebo State Park
Featuring stunning views of the surrounding mountains, as well as several miles of hiking trails, Mount Nebo State Park is another excellent destination for Conway locals looking for some places to check out the natural wonders that the region has to offer. Located on the western banks of the Arkansas River, this state park is the second oldest in the state of Arkansas and encompasses a surface area of more than 3,000 acres.
Mount Nebo State Park is located a little over 50 miles west of downtown Conway, making it possible to reach it in about an hour by car along route I-40 W. While this nature reserve can be easily visited as part of a day trip, it is also a well-known camping destination, offering primitive campsites, rustic cabins, and RV parking spots. Some popular activities here include hiking, mountain biking, wildlife watching, and photography.
3. Jenkins’ Ferry Battleground State Park
Located 75 miles south of downtown Conway, Jenkins’ Ferry Battleground State Park was established in 1961 and added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places in 1970. It was here that the Battle of Jenkins’ Ferry was fought during the American Civil War, concluding in the victory of the Union forces led by Major General Frederick Steele. Getting here takes about an hour and 15 minutes by car, driving along routes I-40 and US-167.
Are you ready to explore these fantastic destinations? Before you hit the road, stop by Crain Buick GMC and take a look at our lineup of new and pre-owned vehicles. We have a team of expert sales agents who are ready to help you find the best deal for your needs.
A First Look at the 2022 Buick Envision
The 2022 Buick Envision is a small luxury SUV that offers excellent value for an affordable and competitive price. Find out more about the 2022 Envision now.
A First Look at the 2022 Buick Envision
New for 2021
The 2022 Envision is available in three trims. The Sport Touring package on the Preferred and Essence model includes alloy pedals, headrests, and floormats with an ‘ST’ logo. The Essence Sport Touring package also includes red stitching on the seats. A new Sapphire Metallic paint color is also now available.
Fantastic Good Looks
Whatever model of the 2022 Envision you buy, you know you are getting a stunning-looking car. 18-inch rims are available on all but the base model. The Sport Touring package adds 20-inch rims and a darkened exterior trim.
Gas Powertrain
All 2022 Envisions come with a perky turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that turns out 228 horsepower. The powerful engine is paired with a smooth-shifting nine-speed automatic transmission that always finds the right gear when you need it.
FWD or AWD
All models of the 2022 Envision are front-wheel drive. Optional all-wheel-drive models are available across all trims. The all-wheel-drive system is perfect for those who live in areas where extra traction is required.
Driving Experience
The 2022 Envision has excellent suspension designed for a comfortable ride without sacrificing handling. The vehicle is perky around town and takes on the open road with ease.
Fuel Economy
A front-wheel-drive 2022 Envision with turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and nine-speed transmission earns drivers excellent mileage. The SUV delivers 24 mpg around town and 31 mpg on the highway. The all-wheel-drive only reduces the mileage by two mpg.
Interior Design and Space
The 2022 Envision seats five adults in comfort. The interior is built with quality materials that give the vehicle a premium feel. While the Premium and Essence trims offer plenty of luxury features, the Avenir trim comes with leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a massaging driver’s seat. With the rear seats folded flat, this compact SUV can carry 21 carry-on suitcases.
Driver Aids
All 2022 Renegades come with a host of standard driver-assistance technologies plus optional driver aids are also available. Key features include automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist.
Infotainment and Sound
The base infotainment system comes with an 8.0-inch touchscreen. The Essence and Avenir trims stock a larger 10.2-inch touchscreen. The system is easy to use and comes with Apple Carplay, Android Auto, and 4G LTE Wi-Fi connectivity. All models also receive a SiriusXM satellite radio. The standard audio system has six speakers but can be upgraded to a powerful nine-speaker Bose sound system.
Warranty and Maintenance
Your new 2022 Envision comes with excellent warranty coverage and complimentary scheduled maintenance on the first visit. The Limited Warranty covers the SUV for 50,000 miles or four years. The Powertrain Warranty covers the powertrain for six years or 70,000 miles.
There is a whole lot more to discover in your new 2022 Envision. Find out more and book yourself a test drive with Crain Buick GMC now.
The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500 does everything you want a heavy-duty pickup to do. It has a powerful engine, plenty of space in the bed for your cargo, and a range of trims to make sure you end up with a vehicle that does what you need it to do, all at a price that outperforms the competition. There are plenty of reasons to make the Sierra 2500 your next pickup, but here are just a few to get started!
4 Things to Know About the New 2022 GMC Sierra 2500
1. Powerful Performance
All configurations of the Sierra 2500 are fitted with either a 6.0L V.8 or a 6.6L V8 engine. The 6.0L pumps out 360 horsepower and the 6.6L bumps that up to 445hp. All trim levels can be either rear- or four-wheel drive, paired with a six-speed automatic gearbox. For the first time in a heavy-duty pickup of this class, you can also upgrade to a 10-speed gearbox, offering even more control when you’re towing or hauling a heavy load.
2. Mix and Match to Suit Your Needs
The Sierra 2500 isn’t a one-size-fits-all vehicle, because you have five options when it comes to the trim to make sure you end up with a pickup to suit your specifications. Not all five are available with every style of cab and bed, but each configuration has plenty of range. With the standard bed and crew cab, you can have the Pro, SLE or SLT trims, with AT4 and Denali available in other configurations.
The Pro trim is the simplest, with 17” wheels, a 7” touchscreen control panel, Bluetooth streaming, and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capabilities, as well as lane control and stability assistance system. The other trims have more, bigger features, stretching up to include 20” wheels, voice recognition technology, and an 8” touchscreen control panel.
3. Competitively Priced
As mentioned, there are five trims available for the 2500, and they range in price from the Pro, at $36,200, up to the Denali at $65,500. That puts it lower on the price list than the majority of similar vehicles in its class, cheaper at the low end but also saving you thousands on the most expensive configurations when compared to the competition.
4. Huge Hauling and Towing Capacity
The Sierra 2500 goes all-out on cargo and towing capacity. In the largest configurations, you can haul a payload of up to 7,442lbs, and the V8 engine enables 910lb-ft of torque, which lets you tow anywhere up to 35,500lbs behind the vehicle. The long bed option stretches out to 98.27 inches, available even if you pair it with the double-sized cab, so you don’t have to compromise on passenger space in order to get your materials on board.
So whether you’re already familiar with pickups and you’re looking for an upgrade, or you’ve never owned one and want to get a piece of the action, the Sierra 2500 is a perfect vehicle for you. Head on over to Crain Buick GMC today to book your test drive!
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