Thinking about buying an electric vehicle (EV)? If you’re worried about the battery range not being long enough, you are not the only one. Based on AAA research, North Americans have 2 fears switching over to electric cars – not having enough car charging stations (58%) and running out of charge (57%).

Just by driving an electric vehicle, most people’s anxiety can be quelled. A new AAA study finds that 95% of EV drivers have never run out of charge. To alleviate more stress about owning and driving an EV, it may be useful to check your access to electric car charging stations before you buy an EV.

Have a look at this step-by-step guide to see how an EV will work for you:

1. What are your “At Home” charging options?

   • Do you own your home?

     • According to energy.gov, 80% of North Americans charge their EV’s at home. With home charging it’s like parking your car at a gas station and starting each day with a full tank.

   • Level 1 Charging

     • Most EV charging cables can be plugged into any standard wall outlet like you would to charge your phone. No special equipment is needed. From a standard electric plug, EV batteries recharge at a speed of 3 to 8 km/h of charging. Average N. American’s drive approximately 52 km per day. If this is you, charging an EV on a wall charger or “Level 1 Charger” for a night should be sufficient.

   • Level 2 Charging (240 volts)

     • If you have a need for more power or have the need for speed, a Level 2 charging station can get your battery charged at a rate of 16 to 32 km/h of charging. These types of charges can cost as little as $500 and are available at stores like Amazon and Walmart. With the help of a certified electrician, they can be installed in your home or garage. At minimum, these level 2 chargers should have a dedicated 40-amp circuit. Better yet, a 50 or 60 amp circuit would be best.

   • Utility Incentives

     • Some electric utilities offer rebates to their customers for installing electric car charging stations in your home along with special rates for EV customers. Check with your utility’s provider for more information.

   • Do you rent an apartment?

     • Is your parking spot near an electric plug in? Like one you would plug your block heater into? This could be used for your EV to charge. Your landlord could also be open to installing a faster level 2 charger. If you only have street parking, it’s still possible to find a charging station near you. See the next step.

2. Locate DC Fast Chargers near you

   • • You may hear these referred to as “Level 3” chargers, DC Fast Chargers or Superchargers (for Tesla). They are special high-powered equipment designed to charge a battery from empty to 80% capacity in 30 minutes or less. Since installation of these chargers is expensive, they are rarely installed in-home.
     • Because of their speed of charging, DC Fast Chargers are becoming increasingly available as public charging options. Even if you have at home charging options, you should know where your DC Fast Charger near home is in case of needing a rapid charge.
     • Many gas stations such as Petro Canada now have charging stations and list them on their websites: https://www.petro-canada.ca/en/personal/fuel/canadas-electric-highway. You can also locate DC Fast Charging stations across Canada with this website: https://www.electrify-canada.ca/locate-charger/.

3. Plug into free Workplace Charging

   • • Some employers will now offer free workplace charging. Electric car charging can be and in many cases is already cheaper than gas. Maybe your employer could pay for your fuel while at work. Workplace electric charging stations are becoming an increasingly popular perk. Most chargers are level 2 so your EV battery could be just about charged in an 8-hour workday.

4. Plan your big trips for EV charging stations

   • • Most EV’s now come with navigation systems designed to give you recommendations on where to find charging stations based on your route.
     • Using a site like https://www.plugshare.com/ allows you to plan your route with charging stations so you never have to worry about running out of battery.

5. Having roadside service can add peace of mind

   • • If you are still concerned about running out of electric charge, you can sign up for roadside service through companies such as AMA. If you get stranded without power, AMA can tow you to the nearest electric charging station. Some manufacturers such as Tesla offer this service for free.

6. Check out the savings you could have with an EV

   • • With the amount of charging options available, you can save thousands of dollars by owning and driving an EV!

Push that pedal to the floor and crank the volume up, because we’re arming you with the 20 best driving songs of all time. From the music of today to classics of the 70’s and 80’s, we’ve got all the tunes that are guaranteed to make your next road trip a thumb tapping, head banging, singing in your seat adventure.

20. “I Can’t Drive 55” by Sammy Hagar

You can drive 55, or a lot faster. You’ll want to with this catchy tune by Sammy Hagar blasting out of your speakers. *Please obey speed limits*

19. “No Particular Place to Go” by Chuck Berry

Whether you have a particular place to go, or not, this little ditty will accompany most adventures you might have on the open road.

18. “Little Red Corvette” by Prince

If you don’t have a Corvette of your own, don’t worry, we can help you get one. What we can’t do is help you get this tune out of your head.

17. “Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen

Sex, rebellion, desperation – this classic riff has it all, including that extra special ingredient essential to your road trip adventures – Freedom.

16. “Here I Go Again” by Whitesnake

This power ballad will have you make up your mind, and not wasting any time cranking up your speakers and hitting the open road.

15. “Welcome to the Jungle” by Guns N’ Roses

We know you’ll want to riff along with Slash during this one, but please, try to keep both hands firmly on the wheel. You can tap your thumbs if you want…

14. “Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd

Sweet Home Alabama reached #8 on the US chart in 1974. This song was written as a reply to :Southern Man” and “Alabama” by Neil Young, and will have you singing in your car all the way to the deep South.

13. “Take It Easy” by The Eagles

The sound of your own wheels  will definitely not drive you crazy with the harmonious sound of the Eagles emanating throughout your vehicle.

12. “Route 66” by Chuck Berry

Route 66 by Chuck Berry has inspired a dozen cover versions of this well known song, which brings to mind visions of roadside attractions as you cruise down an asphalt highway.

11. “Home” Remix by Phil Collins and Bone, Thugs & Harmony

While Phil Collins classic original is a hit, this remix features vacals by Bone, Thugs & Harmony. The fast pace of the song will really rev you up!

10. “Holiday Road” by Lindsey Buckingham

In 1983 this classic song was recorded by former Fleetwood Mac guitarist, Lindsey Buckingham for the hit film National Lampoon’s Vacation. It has since become one of Buckingham’s best known songs.

9. I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) by The Proclaimers

You’ll be bobbing to the beat of the Proclaimers from the edge of your driveway to the furthest reaches of your journey.

8. “On The Road Again” by Willie Nelson

This country song from the 80’s will keep you company on the road with Willie Nelson’s low timbre being perfect for driving past pastures and country low lands.

7. “Born to be Wild” by Steppenwolf

In 1969 this tune accompanied the opening scene to the iconic film “Easy Rider”, and since then it’s stayed prominent as the quintessential song to hit the open road with.

6. “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey

Get ready for one of the all-time classic sing along’s to welcome the open highway. Also popular in bars… but DON’T drink and drive.

5. “Danger Zone” by Kenny Loggins

This classic featured in the popular 80’s film “Top Gun” with have you lighting the afterburner on your next adventure.

4. “Life is a Highway” by Tom Cochrane

This song was re-popularized by Pixar’s movie, Cars. It’s really fun and you won’t be able to get enough.

3. “Go Your Own Way” by Fleetwood Mac

This is an epic breakup song, and nothing quite sooths a breakup like an awesome road trip.

2. Jack & Diane” by John Cougar Mellencamp

Longing for your teenage years? This lil diddy is all about savouring those teenage moments that turned you into the stud/studette you are today.

1. “No Sleep ‘Til Brooklyn” by Beastie Boys

This hip-hop wonder combines rap and hard rock to create a track that’ll make you want to sing along, substituting your destination du jour at the appropriate moment.

Most GM vehicles produced after 2011 require Dexos oil specification. However, we often get questions if Dexos is really necessary. This article answers that question and most others that you may have about the oil requirements of your GM vehicle.

What Is Dexos Oil?

Dexos oil is engine oil that meets a special set of requirements. Oils with Dexos specification meet the most stringent specifications that will help your vehicle meet the latest emissions standards and improve fuel efficiency.

However, even if you’re an evil Disney villain who turns his nose up to emissions standards and fuel efficiency doesn’t float your boat, you should use Dexos oil for any engine that calls for it. The reason for this is that the engine is configured in such a way that Dexos oil specifications help it work as it should. Dexos oil is also specially formulated for proper lubrication, sludge reduction, friction level moderation and controlling temperatures – the latter being especially important in vehicles with turbochargers or superchargers, as they create more heat. Coincidentally, due to the engine downsizing trend, the number of vehicles with forced induction (turbo or superchargers) has been increasing rapidly.

Dexos oil specification for GM vehicles also provides a global framework that enables GM vehicle owners anywhere in the world to know which oil is right for their vehicles, instead of making different blends for different regions as was often the case in the past.

But Dexos goes a step further.

Aside from meeting the current API (American Petroleum Institute) and ILSAC (International Lubricants Standardization and Approval Committee) requirements, Dexos oils were developed through additional testing that provides reduction in piston deposits of up to 28% and a slight improvement in fuel efficiency compared to the API and ILSAC requirements.

What Is the Difference between Dexos1 and Dexos2? Can I use either?

No! Even though many of the features are very similar, Dexos1 oils are designed for gasoline engines and Dexos2 for diesels. Due to the inherent differences in operations between gasoline and diesel engines, using the intended oil is of the highest importance.

Can Dexos Be Used in Vehicles Older than 2011?

Even though you do not have to use Dexos oils in vehicles that were made before Dexos became standard for GM, Dexos is compatible with older vehicles as well.

Dexos Oil and Warranty

Using non-Dexos oil for engines that are officially required to use Dexos voids your warranty, and if you have to use the vehicle manufacturer’s oil only.

Not using Dexos oil for engines that are officially required to use Dexos voids your warranty.

However, if the oil you use has the required specifications, or is even Dexos-licensed, your warranty will usually remain in good standing. Make sure you ask your mechanic about this if you intend to switch from the manufacturer’s oil.

Come into Shaw GMC Chevrolet Buick today to see all the amazing cars, trucks and SUVs we have in stock – all protected with Dexos. Want to get a new vehicle with protection meeting the highest standards? Visit our Calgary car dealership at 4620 Blackfoot Trail SE, give us a call at (403) 243-4200, or book a test drive online today.

Shaw GMC Chevrolet Buick is your number one answer when you are looking to shop with a dependable dealership with an astounding assortment of vehicles to pick from. If you are interested in cutting-edge Chevrolet technology, we encourage you to stop by to view our inventory in person. Our friendly team at our Calgary Chevrolet dealership can go over every detail with you and even set you up to take your favorite model for a test drive.

Chevrolet MyLink

We can’t wait to show you the latest Chevrolet cars that have the Chevrolet MyLink technology. This is connectivity at its finest and this technology allows you to easily access the information you need. Take calls, get messages, and take note of alerts all while having your device safely stored away so that you are not distracted. We can even show you how to pair your smartphone.

Stabilitrak® Electronic Stability Control

In order to stay as safe as possible when you are on the roads, you need to have a solid collision avoidance system on board. The Stabilitrak® Electronic Stability Control System helps your vehicle when you are experiencing road conditions with low traction. We are proud to say that this technology is standard on all new Chevrolet models, which we can go over when you come by for a test drive.

When it is time for you to invest in a new Chevrolet Equinox or a Chevrolet Silverado, you will find Shaw GMC Chevrolet Buick located at 4620 Blackfoot Trail SE in Calgary, AB. Should you have any questions when it comes to pricing, Chevrolet financing, and the latest Chevrolet technology, simply call our friendly sales team today at (403) 243-4200 and we will be happy to assist with your buying or leasing needs.

Whether you have a brand new Buick car or you have an older model, you need to keep proper maintenance on your mind. At Shaw GMC Buick, we are always available to address your vehicle maintenance needs, especially with the changing seasons. Now that spring is near, you can count on our staff to address whatever services you are thinking of to ensure proper function of your vehicle for all of your driving adventures.

Oil Change and Fluid Check

Spring time is a great time to have your oil changed, especially if the last time you had it done was before winter. We can also take a look at all of your other fluids, making sure things like your brakes, wipers, and transmission fluids are in good shape.

Tires

Your tires go through a lot during the winter months, especially with the rough roads. Have your Buick Enclave’s tires checked for proper inflation and make sure that the tire tread is thick enough. Should you need new tires for your vehicle, we will be happy to have them mounted and balanced for you.

Suspension and Alignment

There is nothing worse than having damage to your suspension or issues with your alignment after a tough winter. Our trained technicians can look at your Buick Envision to perform the necessary repairs and give you the added peace of mind that you need.

Regardless of your automotive needs, you can trust in our trained technicians at our state-of-the-art Buick service center at Shaw GMC Buick to get the job done. See us today at 4620 Blackfoot Trail in Calgary, AB for your spring service appointment or call us at (403) 207-1071 for more information.

If you have been wondering whether or not you need to get your tires rotated, the answer may be clearer than you think. The fact is that you could save yourself from having to get your tires replaced simply by making sure that you have them checked and rotated on a regular basis. Our friendly technicians at Shaw GMC Chevrolet Buick are able to get your vehicle in for a tire inspection and we can tell you what is best for your vehicle’s tires.

Tire Rotation

Many people tend to forget about their tires until an issue arises. To help avoid this, think about having your tires checked and rotated with every oil change, or at least every other. This will help you to make sure that your tires are wearing evenly and to detect any issues with loss of tread before you are left with a flat.

Tire Replacement

When it comes to a tire replacement, you need to be sure that you always have ample inflation and plenty of tire tread. If it seems as though you have a tire that keeps losing inflation, you may want to have it replaced sooner than later. The technicians at our professional GMC service center will also take a look at your tires to be sure you have at least a 4/32 of an inch tread depth. Anything that gets much lower than that is not safe.

Whether you are driving a GMC Sierra or a GMC Yukon, we can get you in for tire service and have you on your way as soon as possible. Call (403) 207-1071 to set up a service time or stop by to see our service technicians in person at your local Calgary, AB GMC dealership located at 4620 Blackfoot Trail in Calgary, AB. You can always trust in our level of expertise and skill.

Tough weather can be both dangerous and frightening when you are behind the wheel of a vehicle. When it comes to winter driving in and around the Calgary, AB area, knowing some of the top tips will help you to make sure you get from one destination to the next safe and sound.

At Shaw GMC Chevrolet Buick, we are not only able to offer you incredible pricing on great Chevrolet models suitable for winter driving, but we would also like to give you helpful winter driving tips.

• Always avoid driving whenever you are fatigued. Make sure that you get enough rest to reduce potential driving risks.
• Whenever you get ready to leave for a winter outing, never let your Chevrolet Malibu warm up in an enclosed area such as the garage. There needs to be plenty of ventilation.
• Ensure that your gas tank is always at least half-full to make sure that the gas lines are not in danger of freezing up.
• If you are going to be taking your Chevrolet Equinox on a long-distance winter trip, always bring along a cell phone, gloves, hats, water, snacks, and a blanket just in case you end up on the side of the road for a period of time.

Our Full-Service Chevrolet Dealership

Not only does Shaw GMC Chevrolet Buick carry a vast selection of new Chevrolet cars, but we also have a state of the art service center and a fully-stocked parts department. We are available to take care of all of your vehicle winterization needs, so call us today at (403) 207-1071 to set up a service appointment.

If you have questions regarding our current inventory and would like to visit us in person, you will find our Calgary Chevrolet dealership conveniently located at 4620 Blackfoot Trail in beautiful Calgary, AB. Call the sales team at (403) 243-4200 for buying information.

No matter what you are driving, the time is now to bring your vehicle in to our full-service maintenance department at Shaw GMC Chevrolet Buick to have it professionally winterized!

The temperatures have already started to drop, letting us know that winter is coming. You need to be sure that you do all you can to take care of your vehicle, which means taking the steps for proper winterization. Before you encounter the slick roads, icing on your windshield, and snow in your driveway, you can bring your vehicle in to see our professional maintenance staff at Shaw GMC Chevrolet Buick. These are some of the areas that we can cover for you:

Battery Check – You never want to get into your vehicle to find out that you have a dead battery. We can run a full battery test to ensure efficiency, check for any corrosion, and even set you up with a replacement if necessary.

Tire Inspection – Your tire tread and inflation will be another important factor for all of your winter driving excursions. If your tread is too thin you will not be able to grip the road effectively. Not only will we inspect for proper wear and tear, but we also check inflation levels, perform rotations, and have the ability to replace your tires for you.

Fluid Levels – Not only should you have fluid available for your windshield wipers, but other fluid levels like your oil and anti-freeze should be checked out and topped off. This is also a good time to think about getting your oil changed if the time is right.

Wiper Integrity – You need to have wiper that can cut through the slush, ice, and road grime that develops during the winter. We can check out the rubber and offer replacement blades if your current set is not up to par.

For the ultimate in winter road safety, you can count on the service team at Shaw GMC Chevrolet Buick. Call us in the service department today at (403) 207-1071 and we will be happy to set you up with a winterization appointment at your earliest convenience. You will find our dealership conveniently located on 4620 Blackfoot Trail in Calgary, AB. 

While you may have always been told that buying brand new is the better option, there are plenty of incredible used and certified pre-owned vehicles available at your local Calgary, AB GMC dealership. No matter what vehicle style you are interested in, we offer quality used and certified pre-owned GMC cars to meet any driving need or budget. All you have to do is make your way to see us at Shaw GMC Chevrolet Buick and we will be happy to match you with your best buying option.

Our Used Inventory

When you buy a used car, you are saving yourself money while also fighting against the depreciation that happens automatically with a driving a brand new GMC model off of the lot. We have excelled used cars to suit any tastes, all of which come with the latest features and safety technology. All you have to do is stop by to check out our quality used inventory and take a few options for a test drive.

Our Certified Pre-Owned Inventory

A major benefit of buying a certified pre-owned GMC vehicle is that you have a vehicle that has been through a rigorous inspection process to ensure the utmost quality. With GMC certified vehicles, you have the added peace of mind and warranties that you are looking for. This is as close to getting a new vehicle at a lower price as you can get, and our staff at your local Calgary, AB dealership is happy to show you all of your buying options.

Are you still unsure as to whether or not you are best off with a used GMC car or a certified pre-owned GMC model? You can count on our sales team to help, so give us a call today at (403) 243-4200 and we can go over our current inventory. To view our selection in person, you will find Shaw GMC Chevrolet Buick conveniently located at 4620 Blackfoot Trail in lovely Calgary, AB.

At Shaw GMC Chevrolet Buick, we know that our customers lead busy lives, which means you may find it difficult to keep track of when to schedule service appointments. We’re here to assist and guide you when it comes to important routine procedures like oil changes for your used GMC model or new Chevrolet vehicle. Here are some tips to guide you in maintaining this building block of engine and overall vehicle health.

Is it Time for an Oil Change?

If you see the oil change indicator on your dashboard, chances are it’s time for a service visit. Of course, it’s always helpful to have a grasp of your vehicle’s needs and to anticipate service needs like the next oil change before warning light grabs your attention.

The general rule of thumb for oil changes ranges from approximately every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. However, the best course of action depends largely on the driving conditions you face and the type of engine powering your vehicle. Here are a few considerations that may increase the frequency need for oil changes in your vehicle:

• Driving at slow speeds for long distances
• Encountering stop and go traffic
• Relying on your vehicle for heavy towing or hauling
• Weather conditions such as extreme heat
• Regularly driving over terrain like unpaved roads or sand

You can be proactive by consulting your owner’s manual, which will provide service interval recommendations. We are also happy to provide guidance at our service center. Our technicians can save you the time it would take to read your owner’s manual by helping you understand what your specific vehicle needs when it comes to oil changes and other services.

Schedule your next appointment at our Calgary car dealership by calling (403) 207-1071 or through our convenient online scheduling tool. We look forward to seeing you for your next oil change and helping you with all your service needs.

There are many people just like you looking to get a great deal on a used vehicle, but are you prepared to get the most out of the experience? Your local Calgary, AB Chevrolet dealership has the selection you need for quality used vehicles of all kinds to give you the ultimate investment. It is simply a matter of stopping by to see us at Shaw GMC Chevrolet Buick to find the right vehicle to meet your needs.

1. Determine what you can afford when shopping. This will help to give you some idea of your price range and the budget will allow you to check out any vehicles that fall in line with what you want.

2. Put together a target vehicle list. In our inventory, we have a range of used cars, trucks, SUVs and minivans to fulfill our customer’s needs. Determine some of the makes and models interest you most so you have an idea of what you would like to test drive.

3. Take a test drive. When you arrive at the dealership, we will be happy to set you up to test drive the various used vehicles that interest you. Feel free to ask plenty of questions and our professional sales team will go over all of the powertrain options, special features and safety technology with you.

4. Learn about used and certified pre-owned vehicles. We carry both used vehicles and certified pre-owned vehicles at our dealership. Each come with their own benefits and added peace of mind that you need to know you are getting the best.

Stop by to see us today at Shaw GMC Chevrolet Buick on 4620 Blackfoot Trail in Calgary, AB or give us a call at (403) 243-4200.

For many people, navigating their way through the city of Calgary can come with a unique set of challenges. In order to have the best possible experience, you need to have knowledge of simple city driving tips as well as the right Buick car to safely get you from one point to the next. Shaw GMC Chevrolet Buick wants you to have some handy safe city driving tips when you are behind the wheel.

Of course, you need to think about making sure that the vehicle you choose has an anti-lock braking system as well as other features to help with stop and go traffic. There will also be many pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles to watch out for when you are on the city streets. Luckily, there are vehicles in the Buick brand lineup that come outfitted with top safety technology for sensing other vehicles, automatic emergency braking, and even pedestrian detection for added peace of mind.

If you want to get behind the wheel of a fully capable and safe vehicle for navigating the streets of Calgary, the Buick Enclave is a smart option. Available in all-wheel drive and complete with three rows of luxurious seating, this is a vehicle that has the honor of receiving a five-star rating with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for safety.

Would you like to see if the Buick Enclave or another vehicle in the Buick brand lineup will be suited to your driving needs? We invite you to stop by to see our full selection today at Shaw GMC Chevrolet Buick, conveniently located on 4620 Blackfoot Trail in Calgary, AB. For information, please call us today at (403) 243-4200 and we will be happy to go over your options in a new vehicle and what we can do to help out with financing.

Here in Canada, where the winter weather is brutal and makes driving rather hazardous for Calgary GMC drivers because of way too much ice and snow, summer us supposed to be the reprieve we all prayed for in terms of day trips and longer vacations.

Despite the fact that driving actually is easier this time of year, there are a few automotive parts that need special attention in the summer, including:

Windshield Wipers – If you remember trying to knock ice off of your windshield wipers back in the frigidity of January, you understand how those wipers could be damaged by the time the summer rains pour down. The last thing drivers in Calgary, AB need is a lack of visibility during a rainstorm, especially when it’s such a quick and easy fix for our Shaw GMC Chevrolet Buick service department to handle for you.

Oil and Filter – Heat doesn’t do great things for your oil. Newer, cleaner oil does a better job keeping your engine lubricated, which keeps friction down and your engine temperature reasonable. Again, this is an easy fix that can be handled right here at your friendly neighborhood Chevy dealership.

Battery – Heat also drains your battery more quickly, especially if it’s an older battery. We can test yours to see how it’s doing and of course replace it if the need be.

As always, we are happy to help our customers however we can, and that includes taking care of some summer maintenance, which includes checking and/or replacing the aforementioned parts. Just give us a call or check out our website to set up your service appointment today!