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“Sign, sign, everywhere a sign*”! Signs are helpful, they tell you how fast you can drive, when to stop, and where to eat. But some signs, namely car warning lights, can get your heart running faster than your motor! Nothing can complicate your day like something going wrong with your vehicle, but having a little bit of knowledge about the meaning of the warning lights can ease the tension and help you respond quickly. As vehicles have become higher-tech, and since fewer people work on their own cars these days, it’s easy to be concerned that you may not be doing the right thing when a warning light comes on. We suggest you review your vehicle’s owner manual and learn which lights you might see on your dashboard regularly (such as the low-temperature light that goes off as the car warms up), and those that can appear when something is wrong (such as the check engine warning light). Some vehicles are equipped with additional safety items, cruise control, or variable transmissions that have lights you may not have been familiar with in past vehicles. Here are the basic warning lights all vehicle operators should be aware of, as well as, the action to take when you see them (courtesy www.driverseducationusa.com): Temperature Warning Light: This indicates that your car's engine is overheated and may need more coolant. If this light turns on while you are driving, pull over as soon as possible and turn off your engine.  You may need to add coolant to your vehicle's coolant reservoir; however, never open your vehicle's coolant reservoir cap while the engine is still hot.  You may need to wait for a while until the engine is cool, then you can open your coolant reservoir cap and add coolant. Oil Pressure Warning Light: This indicates that your oil level may be too low. Check your oil dipstick and add oil if necessary. If your warning light is still lit after adding oil, visit a mechanic. Check Engine Warning Light: This indicates that there is a serious problem with the engine that requires your immediate attention. You may need to take your vehicle to a mechanic right away. If the engine light comes on in conjunction with other warning lights, such as the temperature warning light or oil pressure warning light, pull over and turn off the engine and follow the instructions above for the issues relating to temperature and oil pressure. Tire Pressure Warning Light: This indicates that one or more of your vehicle's tires have low pressure. On occasions, this happens when one or more of your tires are getting close to going flat due to possible damage, or because you may have driven over a nail or sharp object.  If this light comes on while you are driving on the highway at a higher speed, grab your steering wheel firmly, so you can control your car better in case of a tire blowout, start slowing down, and pull the vehicle over as soon as you can. Then take your vehicle to a tire center for an inspection. Brake System Warning Light: This indicates that there is a problem with the brake system. Also, you may have left your parking brake on, or you may have low brake fluid.If you do not have your parking brake on, your vehicle's brake fluid is okay, and your brake system Warning Light still comes on, you need to stop driving the vehicle and take it to a mechanic for repairing the brake system. ABS Warning Light: This indicates that your vehicle's anti-lock brake system (ABS) has been deactivated due to an issue with the ABS. However, the standard brake system is working. ABS is important for situations when you need to stop the vehicle suddenly, or you need to brake on a wet or slippery road.  Thus, it is recommended to fix the ABS issue as soon as possible.If both the Brake System Warning Light and ABS Warning Light come on while you're driving, pull over immediately – there is a possibility that your brake system is not working. Take your vehicle to a mechanic. Electronic Stability Control Light: This indicates that the vehicle's traction control is activated to prevent skidding; this is caused by slippery driving conditions. Transmission Temperature Warning Light: This indicates that the transmission's current temperature is higher than normal. Pullover and let the engine cool, and then check the coolant level and transmission fluid level; if both are at the correct level and your transmission temperature warning light is still on, take your vehicle to a mechanic. Battery Warning Light: This indicates that your vehicle's charging system is not working correctly, and the engine is not getting enough power. This problem may be caused by your battery's condition or its terminal connections, or your vehicle's alternator or alternator belt.  Don't turn off the engine because it may not turn on again and take the vehicle to the nearest part store or mechanic.  Part stores usually have a tester that can test the battery and alternator for you at no charge. Airbag Warning Light: This indicates that your vehicle's airbag system is not working properly. Take your vehicle to a mechanic or a dealer to fix this safety issue. Door Ajar Warning Light: This indicates that there is a door or the trunk door is open. Make sure that all of the doors and hood and trunk are closed before starting to drive your vehicle. Also, if you leave your door open and the vehicle's light is on, it can drain your battery. Fog Lamp: This indicates that the vehicle's front lamp is on. If you have encountered a warning light or a mechanical emergency that requires you immediately stop using the vehicle, follow these steps from AAA: 1) Note your vehicle’s location. If you encounter a problem while driving, make sure you are aware of your surroundings and general location. Know where you are in relation to a major exit or cross street. Look for well-lighted areas. Notice landmarks such as service stations, restaurants, shopping centers, and business complexes. If you are on an interstate highway, note the mile marker, last exit number, or nearest emergency call box or rest area. You may need this information when summoning assistance.   2) Assess your vehicle’s operating problem. While driving, be aware of and know how to respond to warning signs, such as steering problems or steam or smoke coming from under the hood. Also, listen for any unusual noises. If it’s a flat tire, the first rule is not to panic. Signal, slow down gradually, and carefully pull onto the shoulder of the road, avoiding any sudden maneuvers. If you run out of gas or your engine stops, switch on emergency/safety flashers, carefully steer your vehicle out of traffic, and let its momentum get you off the road to a safe place. Avoid applying the brakes until necessary.   3) Pull off the road. On most roads, you should exit onto the far right shoulder, as far off the road as possible while remaining on level ground. If you are driving on an interstate or multiple-lane highway with medians, you may consider the left shoulder, again pulling as far away from traffic as possible. If you get out of your vehicle, proceed carefully and watch for oncoming traffic, especially at night or in bad weather, when visibility is limited. Never stand behind or directly in front of your vehicle. Other roadway users may have trouble seeing you, and you could be struck by another vehicle. What if you CANNOT pull off the road? If your vehicle loses power and is inoperable, switch on safety/emergency flashers. Do not risk personal injury by attempting to push it to a safe location. If you cannot get your vehicle to a location away from traffic, or if you are uncertain about your safety and think your vehicle may get struck from behind, do not stay in your vehicle.   4) Alert other motorists. Make sure your vehicle is visible to other motorists. Remember they may be traveling at a high rate of speed and must be able to see your vehicle from a great distance to stop or move to another lane. Turn on the emergency flashers, especially at night or during inclement weather. Raise your vehicle’s hood. If you have a brightly colored handkerchief or scarf, tie it to the antenna or door handle, or hold it in place by closing it in a window. Place flares or warning triangles to direct oncoming traffic away from your vehicle. If you are experiencing a fuel leak or smell fuel fumes, do not ignite flares or use anything with a flame. Extinguish any lit cigarettes. As a rule of thumb, place the first flare or triangle 10 feet directly behind the side of the vehicle closest to the road. Place the second 100 feet directly behind the vehicle, lining it up with the middle of the bumper. Position the third device behind the vehicle’s right side — 100 feet if on an undivided highway, 300 feet if on a divided highway. When doing so, always watch for oncoming traffic.   5) Communicate your situation. Once you and any passengers are in a safe location, you can notify others of your vehicle break-down. Make note of surroundings and landmarks, buildings or road signs. If you have a cell phone, immediately use it to call for help. Make the call from inside your vehicle if you are safely out of traffic. Otherwise, do so at a safe distance from the vehicle and roadside.   6) Remain with your vehicle. Safety experts agree that under most circumstances if you are able to pull away from traffic, it is safest to remain in your vehicle until a law enforcement officer or road service provider arrives. Always be mindful of your surroundings. At night, carry a flashlight. In some circumstances, when there is no other alternative, you may need to rely on the help of a friendly motorist or passerby. Should this be your only alternative to get help, ask for identification including name, phone number, and address before accepting assistance. Write this information down and leave it with another person, or in the vehicle, explaining where you are going, when you expect to return, and what you hope to accomplish. If you choose to exit the vehicle, do so safely and well away from oncoming traffic and your vehicle. If possible, you and any passengers should exit through the side of the vehicle facing away from the road. In most cases, the passenger side of the vehicle allows for greater distance from oncoming traffic. If you determine help is within walking distance, think about whether it’s safe to leave your vehicle or passengers for a short period of time. Assess traffic conditions and ensure that your contemplated route is safe for pedestrians. If you choose to stay inside your vehicle, keep the windows almost closed and the doors locked. It’s very dangerous to lower your windows or open your vehicle doors to strangers.  If a stranger does stop to offer help, ask the person to call for emergency road service. If you are threatened or harassed while waiting in your car, honk the horn repeatedly and flash the lights to attract attention. Don’t leave the engine on for extended periods to heat or cool the vehicle. You could put yourself and any passengers at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Additional tips: Keep your phone with you and charged at all times. Your next step is calling for help. You may have AAA or towing coverage through your vehicle’s warranty. Keep these phone numbers handy, either in the glove compartment or programmed into your phone, but ideally both. Keep emergency supplies in your car. A blanket, flashlights, flares, first aid kit, bottled water, and non-perishable snacks will be helpful if the weather is challenging or you are in a remote location. Have someone to call if you need a ride. Keep phone numbers with you and programmed in your phone for friends/relatives and taxi companies who service your area. Uber, Lyft and other car-share companies have convenient apps to summon a ride. Call your mechanic or dealership to advise the vehicle is coming and explain the situation as best you can. If possible, take a photo of the dashboard showing the warning lights. This photo is something you can refer to in later conversations. Advanced safety brings new warning lights to know: One example of a vehicle with advanced technology is the 2019 Buick Enclave. The Owner’s Guide is full of information and within it you will find symbols, along with text describing the operation of information relating to a specific component, control, message, gauge, or indicator. Some warning lights are to advise of a potential mechanical issue, while others are there to highlight potential driving safety issues. As Buick and other manufacturers continue to work to provide you with increasingly safe vehicles, more warning lights will appear on your dashboard alerting you to lane changes, forward collision alert, pedestrians ahead, and rear-cross traffic alerts among others. Refer to your manual and local these symbols and be comfortable with their meanings. Forward Collision Alert Warning Light If available, the Forward Collision Alert detects that a front-end collision situation is imminent while following a detected vehicle. The system alerts you to a potential crash. It also alerts you if you’re following a detected vehicle much too closely. ( www.buick.com) Knowledge is key: If you don’t have a copy of your owner’s manual, there are several ways to get one. If you purchased a GMC truck or Buick from us, ask our service department to order one for you. You can also download a PDF version of your owner’s manual online from www.buick.com. If you have a vehicle from another manufacturer, visit their website for more information. At Liberty Buick-GMC Trucks, we sell a variety of new and used vehicles from many manufacturers and our sales staff is happy to review the features of your new (or new to you) vehicle. We know technology is always changing as more safety and convenience features are being added for your safety and comfort, and our sales staff and service department are here to help!

You’re rolling down Providence Road, heading toward South Park Mall and the perennial Charlottean problem strikes you: traffic. It’s as typical to Charlotte as all the Range Rovers, Mercedes, BMWs, and pricey sports cars. You’re pulling up behind a long line, some 6 deep already, of cars waiting to turn from Providence onto Fairview, and you get to thinking: Am I driving the safest car? What features of my car help to ward off the evils of driving in Charlotte? When I am facing the driving mess that is the morning and evening rush hours in the Queen City, am I certain I have the safest and most dependable ride there is? You pull up to be number two in line, in the turn lane, because the light switched from green back to red. You sit there listening to top 40 tunes and your eyes rove over the cars crossing through the intersection. You glance down at your odometer and see 96, 312 miles, and you think, “wow, it might be time to try something new!” So, what would you buy, what features would you want, and why would you choose what you would? And what about where you live, do the traffic patterns of your particular neighborhood matter to your day-to-day errands? If you’re a typical soccer mom or a football dad, then your driving will be mostly pick-ups and drop-offs, shopping, and running errands within a few miles’ radius of your house. What features will help you with that sort of driving load? But if you’re a working woman, or if you’re a corporate-ladder-climbing man on his hustle, then your commute might be more of a haul than a few short miles to the nearest Chick-fil-A. What do you need to make your commute as smooth and as pleasant as possible? Charlotte’s Most Dangerous Intersections Thinking about the challenges or difficulties of driving in a growing city, with its growing traffic problems, is a good place to start when deciding what you most want, and need, in a vehicle. Some of Charlotte’s worst intersections might surprise you, as well as give you pause to reconsider what’s more important when purchasing a car: the bells and whistles alone, or those plus some solid, significant safety features. For example, the Charlotte Observer, in a November 2018 article, lists East 12 th Street and North Davidson Street as its number 2 worst intersection. This means, running up to NoDa for some tunes and craft beer might be more dangerous than you first thought! Another is that six-lane intersection in the Oakdale North area (Lawning, Miranda, Oakdale, and Sunset) which stands as number 4 in their list (they’ve planned a roundabout, to reconfigure traffic flow there). What about up near the University area, where North Tryon, East Sugar Creek, and West Sugar Creek, all intersect? Did you know that 64,000 vehicles pass through each day, making it one of the busiest intersections on the Observer’s list? Are you prepared to face that mass of traffic each day? Do you have the safest vehicle for your driving needs and habits? What about squeezing into the daily lines at any Chick-fil-A, then doing battle with the line as it wraps around the building and you wrap around with it, in pursuit of that Spicy Chicken Sandwich you craved, how certain are you that your car could take a rear-end from a driving-while-texting or a driver lost in his blaring music? Does your vehicle come equipped with alert systems and rear cameras, which could notify you of the impending hit as you fumble for your money at the window, or a system that might record the incident for insurance reporting purposes? These are things to consider. Safety First Safety features are the most prevalent focus among car manufacturers who are industry leaders. Did you know, according to the Association for Safe International Road Travel, an organization that tracks data on wrecks, that 37,000 people die in road crashes in the US, and that an additional 2.35 million people are annually injured or disabled by a wreck? It’s also important to note that crashes cost $230.6 billion dollars each year, the share of each citizen being $820 per person. What safety features does your vehicle have to minimize your chances of being counted as one of those statistics? Some of the leading safety features in many new vehicles today include back-up cameras, helping drivers see curbs, pedestrians, and other vehicles in the space behind them, or anything else in their path. That’s a brilliant feature in preventing some very dangerous possibilities, such as running over scooters left in the driveway or hitting someone in NoDa on a rent-a-bike. And do you know about the latest in crash-avoidance systems, also called pre-crash systems, and what these systems can do to keep you safer? Such a system uses lasers, radar, and cameras strategically placed around the vehicle’s body, along with GPS sensors, to build a panoramic view around your vehicle as you drive it. It funnels all of that information into alerts and notifications, to warn the driver. And if you cannot avoid a wreck, the system steps in to affect the steering and braking, so that it works for you when you’re in split-second decision-making scenarios. And how about lane detection systems, which can “read” your positioning on the road and inform you when you begin to veer out of the lane, or are drifting. It can also warn you if a driver is in your blind spot when you attempt to change lanes on 485 to get around that slow-moving snail-of-a-driver, in the center lane. How does it convey its alerts or warning? The system will use visual, audio, or vibration (like the haptic on your Apple watch) to tell you that you may be in a dangerous position when it comes to staying in the lane. If you try to change lanes, because you ignored or missed the warning of something in your blind spot on 77 North, the system will work to keep you in the lane, as well as, keep you centered within your lane. That’s not just a great feature for your own vehicle, but it also keeps you safe from the cars around you when those cars are equipped with this feature. Senseless wrecks from poor lane changes are totally avoidable with the lane detection system. The complementary system to lane detection is blind-spot warning systems, which also use audio, visual, or vibration feedback to warn you if someone is in your blind spot as you cruise up North Tryon Street, heading for your craft beer in NoDa. And how about the virtues of Bluetooth technology, allowing for hands-free calling as well as being integral to many of the systems discussed above. It links to your dashboard or infotainment screen, so you can accept or place calls, or even be notified of a text message, which it can read to you, and then you can respond by audibly dictating a reply text, without ever moving your hands from the wheel or eyes off the road. Think about not just your safety, but your teen driver: such Bluetooth technology can be a great way to cut down on texting and driving wrecks, which are so unnecessary. (Also, did you know that Bluetooth, when paired with Google Maps or Apple Maps, can record your parking location for you? Forgetting where you parked, whether in on-street parking or parking lots scenarios, can be a thing of the past when you turn on this feature in your smartphone app.) And here’s another bonus to driving a vehicle with numerous safety features: lowered car insurance premiums. Many car insurance companies incentivize you to own the safest cars possible by building in credits to your premiums for every safety feature your vehicle possesses. Who doesn’t want to save on car insurance, as well as, have the safest driving experiences as they navigate the mess of Charlotte’s traffic? Safest Vehicles What sort of vehicles have most, if not all, of these features? The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) gives 4 of 5 stars to the 2018 GMC Yukon, noting its following safety features, which secured its 4 stars: Forward Collision Warning Lane Departure Warning Crash Imminent Braking Dynamic Brake Support. The GMC Yukon has had no recalls, which further cements its place as a leader among the safest vehicles in America. Consider the 2018 Buick Enclave SUV with FWD, which gained 5 out of 5 stars from NHTSA, in its overall safety rating: Forward Collision Warning Lane Departure Warning Crash Imminent Braking Dynamic Brake Support. Again, no recalls, which tells you how solid and dependable the reputation of Buick, like GMC is. It’s built with American families in mind. It’s built with safety in mind. It’s built for the Charlottean soccer mom and her 3 kids, or for the family vacation to the Carolina coastline, taken during dad’s two weeks off in summer when everyone else is also hitting the roads. US News and World Report, when assessing the safety of the 2019 GMC Terrain, looked to the NHTSA in its reporting. The Terrain gained an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with the specifics of Frontal Crash and Side Crash carrying 5 stars, and Rollover getting 4 stars. For a compact SUV, the 2019 GMC Terrain has a great standing in the ratings for its class. The SUV has numerous airbags, 4-wheel ABS brakes, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control, and Daytime Running Lights. These safety features help to rank it in the top third of its class of Compact SUVs, and its affordability puts safety within reach. It’s a great choice for parents looking to put their child behind the wheel of his or her first car. Similar in ratings and price point to the Terrain is the 2019 Buick Encore, also a Compact SUV, which adds Integrated Turn Signal Mirrors to its list of standard safety features. It, too, has an overall safety rating from the NHTSA of 5 out of 5 stars, making it another leading option in outfitting your daughter with a dependable and safe compact SUV for her commute from south Charlotte to UNC-Charlotte. Sure, that Fiat you saw on Woodlawn was cute, but isn’t a compact SUV like the Encore or the Terrain a better choice? And though the allure of a BMW is always going to be there, you cannot get your family, and all its gear where it needs to go, in it. You need a Yukon, with the same safety features and systems as that BMW, so that you can haul gear and kids and Chick-fil-A around on Saturdays, to matches and meets and practices. Liberty Buick GMC wants to put you in the safest, most reliable vehicles available today. We are unique in that we are large enough to have the inventory our customers need but small enough to get to know our customers personally. We believe in doing what is right for our team and our customers while aiming to be Charlotte’s best Buick/GMC dealership with our state-of-the-art, family-friendly facilities and incredible team of trained professionals.

Liberty Buick GMC is preparing for the New Year with a huge End-Of-Year sales event. The end of the year is quickly approaching and that means it is time to grab a new GMC Yukon. You have been dreaming about getting a new vehicle all year and it is final that time where all vehicles are discounted to unbelievable prices. The GMC Yukon is on sale for up to $12,000 off the MSRP price. Before the clock strikes 12, you need to finally get your dream vehicle. The GMC Yukon is the perfect professional grade SUV. This SUV is perfect for someone trying to make a statement in the corporate world or for someone who needs a large space to transport the kids. Whatever your needs are, the GMC Yukon can handle it in style. The GMC Yukon has a bold and attention-grabbing exterior look that stands out. With the signature front grille, advanced lights, and stunning wheel, you won’t be missed. The interior is quite remarkable with a comfortable and luxurious feel. The spacious interior and quiet cabin make even the most stressful rides a breeze. During a long commute or even just a trip around the block, you can stay connected and keep passengers entertained with built-in Wi-Fi, Apple Carplay, Bluetooth, and more. The GMC Yukon also has excellent towing capabilities, whether you are hauling a trailer or towing a camper. The GMC Yukon has the ability to tow up to 8,500 pounds. Take advantage of these awesome specials at Liberty Buick GMC. Through the end of 2017 you can purchase a 2017 or 2018 GMC Yukon for thousands of dollars off. You can also save with the best financing specials of the year. Qualifying customers can purchase a new Yukon with no money down. Swing by Liberty Buick GMC to test drive this family-friendly professional vehicle.

The weather is starting to get a little cooler and colder days are coming, Liberty Buick GMC wants to be sure you are prepared for frigid mornings and snow days. Getting ready for winter means getting your vehicle should be geared up for the cold. Everything from new tires to snow packages and heated seats. Whether you are looking for a brand new vehicle to help you make it through the cold or just looking to prep your current ride, Liberty Buick GMC is here to help. Here is your winter servicing checklist: Tire Prep Before winter rolls in, it is a good idea to get your tires checked. If anything needs to be fixed, repaired, or replaced this is the time of year to get everything checked out and ready for the winter weather. Liberty Buick GMC has the best Certified Service Technicians to handle all of your tire needs. You can also browse through the Tire Finder Tool online to start your tire search. Maintaining your tires to keep them in quality shape can be challenging with wheel alignment and balance, tire pressure, tire rotation, and wear and tear. Tires require a lot of work and care to keep them it top condition. Wheel Alignment and Balance To help prolong your tire’s lifespan it is essential to keep your wheels aligned. When wheels become unaligned it can cause uneven wear to your tire and even cause bearing, shock, and suspension problems. If your vehicle is pulling to one side or your tires are showing uneven wear, then it is a good idea to have your tires realigned. Tire Pressure Tire pressure is constantly changing as the weather changes. For every temperature change of 10 degrees Fahrenheit, tire pressure changes about 1 psi. In the summer the pressure is higher and in the winter pressure is lower. To ensure your tires are at the correct PSI, it is a good idea to check the pressure at least once a month. Tire Rotation To extend the life of your tires and improve performance it is always important to rotate your tires. Tire rotations are done to help make wear and tear even on all tires. Each tire works differently causing them to wear at a different pace. To help prevent uneven wear and increase the lifespan of your tires, tires should be rotated every 7,500 miles. Vehicle Inspection Car inspections are always a good idea to be sure you abide by the law, ensure your safety, and compile with registration regulations in North Carolina. For your safety, it is important that all the bolts and screws on your vehicle are secure. Liberty Buick GMC is a Certified Inspection Station and a great place to take your vehicle for Vehicle Safety Inspections and Emissions Inspections. We take the extra step when it comes to vehicle inspections to ensure your safety. A vehicle inspection at Liberty Buick GMC checks: Tires Foot and Parking Brakes Directional Lights Engine Lights Steering Suspension Components Wiper Blades Oil Change Before winter rolls in, it is important to check your oil. The first step is checking your oil to make sure the correct amount is in your vehicle for proper use. An oil leak or low oil can cause your vehicle to run differently and often causes issues in your car. It is also important to have your oil changed every so often, depending on your vehicle and the type of oil your vehicle requires. Most cars require an oil change every 7,500 to 10,000 miles to adapt to the normal service schedule but some older vehicles may need oil changes as often as every 3,000 miles. On the other hand, newer vehicles may allow you to go for 15,000 miles before needing an oil change. Liberty Buick GMC has Certified Technicians that preform oil changes. Buick’s newer vehicles have a special Oil Life System that senses your car’s speed, engine temperature, and monitors operating conditions to help determine the best time for an oil change. Check the Antifreeze Antifreeze is one of the top vehicle concerns during the winter months. To prepare for winter it is a good idea to check the antifreeze level in your vehicle. To properly keep your vehicle from freezing, your engine cooling system should be filled with 50/50 mixture of antifreeze and distilled water. To keep your vehicle operating properly and most effectively it is recommended that you follow the manufacturer’s guide for changing the antifreeze. Liberty Buick GMC has the best technicians around that are pros at changing and checking the pressure of your cooling system. Properly Functioning Windshield Wipers Windshield wipers are super important for your safety. Rain, hail, snow, any type of precipitation makes the visibility outside change. When you are driving down the highway it can be difficult to see clearly, so you want to have the best possible view of the road. Properly functioning windshield wipers can make driving in messy weather a little more manageable. Your windshield wiper blades need to be changed if they are: Streaking- the surface will be unclear and the wipers will leave long streaks behind. This often occurs when the blades are dry or dirty Skipping- you will hear a loud, dry skipping sound that indicates that the rubber of the blade is wrapped Worn down-the edge of the rubber will start to round and even peel Split- when the wiper blades are exposed to, too much sun the rubber of the blade will split or crack Bent- damage can cause your wiper blades to become bent. Thing like car washes and scraping ice off of your vehicle can cause damage Brake Check Finally, the brakes. Yep, that one is a no brainer. Brakes are an important part of your safety no matter the season. Winter time means slippery and ice roads so it is important that your brakes are prepared. So how do your breaks actually work? When your foot hits the brake, fluid signals the brakes of all four wheels to stop The force of your foot is multiplied The brake system exerts up to 1,000 pounds of hydraulic pressure to each brake When it comes to your brakes there are two parts the brake rotors and brake pads. When you schedule an appointment with one of our highly trained certified technicians they will inspect both parts of the brakes to ensure your safety. Inspection of the brake hoses for brittleness or cracking Inspection of brake lining and pads for wear or contamination by brake fluid or grease Inspection of wheel bearings and grease seals Adjust parking brake as needed Check brake fluid level at every oil change. Replace fluid according to the Owner’s Manual recommendations Calipers and wheel cylinders should be checked every brake inspection and serviced or replaced as required Inspect the brake lines for rust or punctures As you prepare for winter, don’t forget to schedule an appointment at Liberty Buick GMC to make sure your vehicle is ready to keep you safe during the cold season and through any messy weather.

Hunting without a truck is nothing short of sacrilege, especially here in the South where you can find some of the best hunting in the country. Not just any truck will do, either. You have to have one with the newest updates in technology, performance, and comfort. The avid hunter knows that the truck taken on the hunt often times serves as a bed, and a meal-stop. At Liberty Buick GMC we believe in working with nothing but the best, and this hunting season the best you can do is a new GMC truck. Before venturing out to your favorite spot to hunt, there are three things to consider: what you are going hunt, where you are going to hunt, and what you are going to drive to get the job done. Before we look into what’s in season and where the best places are to find them, let’s start with the transportation. You need something that can serve just as much as a resting place as a mode of transportation. Something that can quietly keep you warm and comfy, yet maintain that certain strength only found in top-of-the-line trucks, which have the capability to move through just about anything and you never have to worry about them letting you down. Maybe it’s these same reasons that the all-new, 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 is already a top-seller. It’s known as one of the best all-around trucks on the market, especially for those who like a bumpy trail over the smooth road. The 2017 GMC Sierra’s expert performance, rugged toughness, and abundance of comfort and space make it the perfect hunting vehicle. The 6.0-liter, V-8 engine with 360 horsepower is incredibly powerful (380 lb-ft of max torque is nothing to laugh at), and more than capable handling any terrain, even with a bed full of the day’s plunder. The interior is nice as well. All the materials and textures are of higher quality than ever before, and there is a surplus of storage space, cup holders, and room to move around. This means whether you are hunting with a bow or a gun, rifle or pistol, the Sierra has plenty of room. It also has five USB ports and a 300 watt inverter for 120 volt plug-ins, so if you need to charge your flashlight, phone, or anything else the Sierra operates as a power hub so that you can be ready for that world class buck, bear, or turkey. Now that you have the perfect truck for hunting, it’s time to decide on the what, where, and when. Here is a detailed list we have compiled of what is in season and where, based on recommendations from the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission: Eastern Deer Season: Archery is from September 9 through September 29, 2017. Blackpowder is from September 30 through October 13, 2017. Gun is from October 14, 2017 through January 1, 2018. Central Deer Season: Archery is from September 9 through October 27, 2017. Blackpowder is from October 28 through November 10, 2017. Gun is from November 11, 2017 through January 1, 2018. Northwestern Deer Season: Archery is from September 9 through November 3, 2017. Blackpowder is from November 4 through November 10, 2017. Gun is from November 18, 2017 through January 1, 2018. Western Deer Season: Archery is from September 9 through October 1, 2017; October 15 through November 19, 2017; December 10, 2017 through January 1, 2018 (this is only for antlered deer). Blackpowder is from October 2 through October 14, 2017. Gun is from November 20 through December 9, 2017. Gun Season for Either Sex: Introductory is open the last day of the applicable gun season. Conservative is the last six open days of the applicable gun season. Moderate is open every day of the applicable gun season. Wild Turkey Spring Season: This is for bearded or male turkey only and is open April 14 through May 12, 2018. Wild Turkey (Youth Only) Season: This is for bearded or male turkey only and is open April 7 through April 13, 2018. Urban Archery Season: Archery only is open January 13 through February 17, 2018. Youth Deer Hunting Day: With any legal weapon, this is open only on September 23, 2017. Now that you know what you can hunt and when, it’s time to decide where you and your new GMC Sierra 1500 should go for the fun. Luckily, North and South Carolina have plenty of spots to try, but here are what we think to be some of the best places in Charlotte, Matthews, and surrounding areas to hunt: Central Carolina Outdoor Club is a unique spot with plenty of land (over 4,000 acres) and fellow hunters to pall around with and learn from. There is hunting, fishing, and beautiful spots for camping and enjoying the outdoors. Central Carolina Outdoor Club owns land contained within three of the four deer and game zones in North Carolina, plus four out of five zones in South Carolina! Located within 100 miles of Charlotte, this spot is perfect when you get the urge to hop in your Sierra and head out for a hunt. This is a club, so membership is important, but honestly, what a convenience to have a plot this large and full of game to be hunted. Goldmine Hunting Preserve is a highly successful organization providing quality hunting, trapping, and fishing. Located in Midland, Goldmine Hunting Preserve is been operating for over 37 years and has proven to have prized hunting grounds and game. There are beautiful bodies of water, picturesque views, and a wide-open sky. This is a great spot for weekend trips with friends, or even one for a fun teaching experience with the young ones. Either way, you are sure to have something nice in that Sierra bed on the way home. Allen Brothers Hunting Preserve is a great place to practice the old English tradition of driven pheasant hunts, something you definitely will not find at most other hunting preserves. Driven pheasant hunts involve launching birds from a tower while hunters, poised and ready, take aim at the darting targets. It takes special skill, but is highly satisfactory come the end of the hunt. Allen Brothers also allow for other birds to be hunted on special occasion, but pheasants are the game of choice around these parts. Beaver Pond Sporting Club is perfectly set among the historic Piedmont hills in Snow Camp, North Carolina. Come and enjoy a simply beautiful setting of hills and trees and bodies of water for either a half-day or a full day of fun. Beaver Pond specializes in wing and clay target shooting. No matter what you end up hunting this season, and no matter where you go, be sure and keep safety as priority number one. The best hunters are cautious and smart. Liberty Buick GMC knows that those who plan well, do well and that’s why we suggest the 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 as your next truck. Hunting, fishing, pleasure-drives, these are all done better and more efficiently in a GMC. You will not find a better selection or price range anywhere else than here. Come see us today, and happy hunting!   -Andrae Bergeron

So you have finally decided to invest in a luxury compact SUV vehicle but don’t know which car to choose? And the online car marketing is so confusing! There dozens of cars in the compact and SUV market to choose from but once you narrow it down you will probably find that the Buick Encore and the Audi Q3 come to the top of the list.  They both have top-notch features including advanced technology, LED headlights, fold-flat second-row seats, moonroof, rearview backup cameras, and the list goes on with tons of luxury features. But starting with the price there are some major differences that you should take into consideration. Buick Encore Audi Q3 Starting at $22,990 Estimated MPG/Hwy 33 1.4 Liter Turbocharged Engine 18.8 ft Cargo Space, 48.4 ft with Seats Down Stabilitrak- quick brakes, traction control, reduced wheel spin 5-Star NHTSA Safety Rating Staring at $31,800 Estimated MPG/Hwy 28 2.0 Liter Turbocharged Engine 16.71 ft Cargo Space, 48.2 ft with Seats Down The Car Connection Reports – “ The 2016 Audi Q3 gives compact luxury SUVs a good name with cozy ride quality and accommodations—but it's not the most space- or fuel-efficient vehicle of its kind.” The Audi Q3 and the Buick Encore look very much alike and have similar features that draw attention. But the Buick Encore is priced at a more reasonable and affordable cost. The Buick Encore not only has a starting price that is over 8,000 dollars less than the Audi Q3, it also has the ability to save money over time with an outstanding gas mileage that wins over the Audi Q3.   We also felt that the safety standards for the Buick were set higher than Audi.  The Buick Encore has a 5-star safety rating from the NHTSA. This is outstanding and can give families a little peace of mind. Safety isn’t just for children, it’s for everyone. The Buick Engineers are proud to provide safety not only for the children that ride in the back seat but also for the adult that seat in the front. That’s why the Buick Encore is safe for everyone and a great vehicle for families, new drivers, and retirees. No matter who you are you can feel safe in a Buick! To take a test drive in this awesome Buick Encore go to Liberty Buick GMC in Matthews, North Carolina, serving Weddington, Ballantyne, and the greater Charlotte area. Call to schedule an appointment to get more information on the vehicle at (704)708-8000.

Your safety means a lot to us at Liberty Buick GMC. That’s why we believe you have more than luck on your side when you decide to drive a Buick. With celebrated, state-of-the-art safety features, the entire 2017 Buick lineup keeps you and your passengers the safest. Add Buick’s expert performance, its luxurious style and comfort, and you might just have the perfect automobile. Buick receives praise every year for its high safety ratings, but this year the venerable car company has gone above and beyond. And it’s already being noticed. U.S. News & World Report gave the 2017 Buick LaCrosse a 10 out of 10 safety score and ranked it as one of the top three safest in large cars on the road. (Photo of the 2017 Buick LaCrosse.) And that’s not all. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has given all six 2017 Buick models a 5-star overall rating in safety for the third year in a row. That’s right, every single 2017 Buick model comes with 5-star safety. How about that for peace of mind when purchasing a new vehicle! A Closer Look at Buick Sedans So, what is it that makes Buick sedans so safe? Turns out it’s a lot of things, actually. A lot of things working well. Take, for instance, the 2017 Buick Verano. (Photo of car.) It comes standard with ten airbags and OnStar Automatic Crash Response. And for extra safety, drivers can add rear cross traffic alerts, lane departure warnings, rear park assist, forward collision warnings, and blind-spot monitors. There’s also the always-classic Buick Regal. (Photo of car.) This year it comes standard with front and rear parking sensors and a rearview camera. Plus, you can add all sorts of other features to make your Regal even safer. And let’s not forget the 2017 Buick LaCrosse with its 10 out of 10 safety rating. (Photo of car.) Blind-spot monitors, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic park assist, ten airbags (including knee airbags in the front seats), these are just a few of the safety features for the LaCrosse. There is even a rearview camera that displays crystal clear images on the 8.0-inch display screen. SUVs If you need something a little bigger, a bit higher off the ground than the sedan, Buick offers the same high level of safety in its SUVs. The fashionable 2017 Buick Encore comes standard with a rearview camera. (Photo of SUV.) It also has Bluetooth connectivity, which connects you to GM’s OnStar telematics system. This intelligent technology provides Directions and Connections service so you can remote start your Encore, program destinations, and many other options to get you safely where you need to be. You can also add all-wheel drive, blind-spot monitors, rear park assist, lane-departure warnings, cross-traffic alerts, and forward collision warning. The 2017 Buick Envision is incredibly safe as well. (Photo of SUV.) It comes with what Buick calls the Driver Confidence Package, which includes adaptive cruise control and automatic braking. It includes air bags a plenty with knee airbags for the driver and front passenger, side-mounted airbags throughout, plus the standard dual front and rear bags. And, of course, you can add-on features such as lane departure warning (a system that actually keeps you on the road by guiding the Encore in place), blind-spot monitors, and forward collision alert system, which warns you with lights and sounds if it senses a possible collision. Driver Responsibility Rather than rely on basic safety features and luck to keep passengers safe, Buick relies on state-of-the-art technology and skillful driving. And it’s important to note that no matter how advanced the safety features included in the vehicle, there is no alternative for the driver’s responsibility to be attentive and alert at all times. These developed devices are merely to aid the driver by making things easier through the use of warnings and driving assistance. A comfortable and informed driver is a safe driver. And safety is the most important aspect of travel. That being said, what are some of the most helpful safety features included in Buick’s 2017 lineup? Let’s have a look: Blindside Alert. This smart system works by waiting for a vehicle to enter your blind spot and alerting you of its presence through lights or sounds. May not seem to be that big of a deal, but actually it is. This system keeps you from having to turn your head to try and see if anyone is in your blind spot before you change lanes. How many times have you gone to switch over on a highway only to realize there is a small sedan or motorcycle in your blind spot? Wouldn’t it be nice to never have to look behind you, to never accidentally merge into someone else’s lane again? Lane Departure Warning. This works from a camera mounted beside your rearview mirror that continuously watches the lines on the side of the road. Day or night, this camera can perfectly make outlines on either side of your vehicle. And once you cross one of those lines it sets off a warning. But that’s not all. Buick’s version of lane departure warning actually guides you back into place. The key word here is “guide.” It doesn’t take complete control over anything, it simply eases you back while you take control of the wheel and merge back in-between the lines. And it’s this little guidance that can save lives. It only takes seconds to accidentally veer into someone else’s lane, and this system reacts faster than the driver, giving you time to see what’s happening and continue to correct your vehicle’s position. Rear Cross Traffic Alert. You know that tense feeling you get when you begin to back out of a tight parking space? It’s difficult to see behind you. Cars whiz by as you slam on your brakes. What if you didn’t have to worry about anymore? Well, with rear cross traffic alert you don’t. What this system does is uses a set of sensors around the rear of the car that can detect if anything is approaching from the left or the right. If it detects someone coming, it lets you know before you have to slam on the brakes. Of course, you still have to pay close attention when backing out of a space, but RCTA keeps you from worry. Safety Alert Seat. One of the most advanced safety features on Buick vehicles is the safety alert seat. Created by GM, this seat vibrates at the seat’s bottom to warn the driver of a possible collision. This is a wonderful alternative to typical flashing lights and sounds as a warning system. With this system, all is quiet and calm. The vibration is activated by cameras in the front of the car, which are designed to measure distance and let you know when there is a crash risk ahead. There are plenty of other safety features that are equally as impressive and could be mentioned here. And all of Buick’s safety systems work well together to aid in a safe driving experience every time you travel. Where To Get the Safest Vehicles on the Highway No matter where you drive, you need assurance that you are as safe as you can possibly be. And Buick gives you that assurance. Right now at Liberty Buick GMC we have a big selection of our favorite Buicks. Come in today and test drive and brand-new 2017 Buick sedan or SUV and see just how safe these vehicles are for yourself. And prepare to be amazed. At Liberty Buick GMC your safety is most important to us. That’s why we only sell the safest cars on the road.   -Andrae Bergeron

The 2017 Buick Enclave is the leader in the clubhouse of all mid-size luxury SUVs, thanks in part to its cross-generational appeal.   We all know how difficult it is to get parents and children to agree on anything. Whether it’s music, movies, or politics, we’ve all been part of those conversations at the dinner table where an agreement just can’t be reached. (Mom and Dad’s lectures on the brilliance of “The Godfather” or Prince’s albums fall on deaf ears to today’s youth who can’t sit through a slow-paced, 3-hour epic and would rather pick and choose single songs from iTunes rather than listen to a full album.) But thanks to the 2017 Buick Enclave, there is something mother/father and child can fully appreciate in unison. The reviews are in, and the 2017 Buick Enclave is getting universal praise. The 2017 Buick Enclave is “comfortable and classy…and still looks regal” Aaron Cole The Car Connection’s Managing Editor “The 2017 Buick Enclave, an upscale yet still practical crossover that undercuts luxury-branded rivals on price” Edmunds “The Enclave delivers one of the most comfortable rides in this class,” Joe Tralongo Kelley Blue Book Contributing Editor Liberty Buick GMC is the Charlotte area’s dealership of choice for all of your Buick needs. Liberty Buick has over thirty 2017 Buick Enclaves on the lot waiting for that family to come adopt them. Liberty Buick GMC offers the three main trims for the 2017 Buick Enclave: Convenience, Leather, and Premium. Take a look below at all three impressive trims. 2017 Buick Enclave Convenience– Quicksilver Metallic 2017 Buick Enclave Leather FWD – Ebony Twilight Metallic 2017 Buick Enclave Premium FWD – White Frost Tricoat If you have read this far and stared at those three impressive Enclaves, you’re obviously interested and intrigued. Let’s now take a deep dive into why the 2017 Buick Enclave is a hit with both parents and kids. INTERIOR We’ve all been in that pickle where we need to load up our car or small SUV with members of the little league team or with suitcases for that family vacation but we can’t jam everyone and everything in. So we end up taking both family vehicles, wasting gas and contributing to the traffic nightmare of our local city. Like a superhero, the 2017 Buick Enclave has come to save the day. The 2017 Buick Enclave is a wide-open, crossover SUV that comfortably seats 7 passengers…that’s mom, dad, and the entire starting 5 of the little league basketball team! The second row riders will appreciate the elevated seating and generous legroom. These second-row captain’s chairs bend, fold, and flip like a gymnast, allowing for easy maneuverability. Even with the third-row bench, the 2017 Buick Enclave allows for 23 cubic ft. of cargo space, perfect for lugging groceries, equipment, and suitcases. This cargo space is vastly multiplied to 115 cubic ft. of storage room when the second and third rows are folded down. As much as the kiddos will love the extra space and wiggle-room, the adults will appreciate the interior beauty of the 2017 Buick Enclave. The upscale dash, the wood-trim, and the soft-touch materials make for a beautiful aesthetic. Other interior amenities that adults will appreciate include: The IntelliLink touch-screen display Brushed chrome accents Available leather-appointed seating Available heated and cooled front seats Available heated steering wheel Available 8-way power-adjustable front seats Whether it’s listening to music or enjoying a family conversation, Enclave families will appreciate QuietTuning™ technology which blocks and absorbs vibrations and noise thanks to acoustic laminated glass and triple door sealing. EXTERIOR Parents appreciate a bold, handsome vehicle, but so do kids. Young teenagers don’t want Mom or Dad picking them up from a friend’s house in some ten-year old, scratched up sedan. The 2017 Buick Enclave has the looks the entire family will be proud of. Robust at 202 inches in length, the 2017 Enclave is an impressive sculpture to behold, with its chrome accents, LED lighting accents, 19-inch alloy wheels, and automatic xenon headlights. Parents will be thankful for the rear power liftgate that lifts with the simple touch of a button. Second row riders will be in awe of the available power moonroof that gives them that awesome open-air breeze and view. Other drivers will be envious when they look in their rearview mirrors and see that iconic Buick waterfall grille. PERFORMANCE Like all Buick vehicles, the Enclave provides a stellar and impressive performance in: Steering Braking Handling And has a smooth and quiet ride, that all riders will appreciate, thanks to its dual-flow suspension and its StabiliTrak technology with traction control. The 2017 Buick Enclave is powered by a 288hp 3.6L V-6. It comes standard with a six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. (Gear up with the available all-wheel drive on Leather and Premium models.) For drivers with towing needs, the Enclave can be equipped to tow up to 4,500 pounds. SAFETY Families must consider a vehicle’s safety features when in the market for a crossover SUV. Parents need to trust that their SUV can withstand damaging impacts, as well as provide the latest technological safety features. Thankfully, the 2017 Buick Enclave is synonymous with safety and control. The Buick Enclave has earned the top score by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety tests in the following categories: moderate-overlap front impact test, head restraint, roof strength, side-impact. It also was awarded a top five-star rating by the government for overall crash protection. At over 200 inches long, weighing in at over 4,700 pounds, the 2017 Buick Enclave is equipped with the following safety features: Anti-lock brakes Airbags for all three rows The first-of-its-kind front-center airbag Rearview camera Stability and traction control OnStar System that includes on-demand roadside assistance and automatic crash notification You can enhance your 2017 Buick Enclave’s already stellar safety capability with the following available safety features (some of which are standard in the Leather and Premium Enclaves): Rear Cross-Traffic Alert Side Blind Zone Alert Lane Departure Warning Forward Collision Alert TECHNOLOGY Today's parents grew up in a time when technology was not part of our everyday driving/riding experience. We manually pushed buttons deep into the dashboard to get to our favorite radio stations; we engaged in the license-plate game on road trips; we gazed out into nature while riding in the back. Today’s children couldn’t and wouldn’t last three seconds in that “boring,” technology-free environment. Buick knows this and has equipped its 2017 Enclave with all the technological perks and gadgets that are now standard in today’s driving culture. The Buick IntelliLink system is the standard bearer of today’s automobile technology. Parents and children can demand the Enclave to play music or make calls thanks to voice recognition capabilities. Children will go bonkers for the available 4G Wi-Fi Hotspot that works for up to seven devices. Parents will go bonkers for the available Navigation feature that works with the IntelliLink system to provide voice-activated directions and real-time traffic info. For those lengthy vacation trips, the back two rows will be amazed by the available rear-seat entertainment system that includes an 8-inch flat screen, a DVD player, and surround sound. It only took a few thousand years, but finally there is one thing parents and children can agree on…the 2017 Buick Enclave is the only mid-size luxury SUV that should be parked in the driveway. Priced below many of its luxury SUV competitors, the 2017 Buick Enclave is the overwhelming choice for today’s families.