Blog / Alternator Repair in Athens, TX

Does Your Chevy Need a Radiator Repair?

If you're a proud Chevy owner, you know how important it is to take care of every component to ensure the smoothest ride and best performance. One component that often goes unnoticed until problems arise is the radiator. Knowing the signs of radiator troubles can prevent long-term damage and save you money in the long run, so look out for these indicators that it's time for radiator repair from your Chevy dealer.

Do You Need a Radiator Repair From Your Chevy Dealer?

Overheating Engine

This is the most obvious sign. If your temperature gauge frequently shows high readings or if you notice steam emerging from under the hood, your radiator might not be cooling the engine effectively.

Coolant Leaks 

If you notice pools of green, pink, or orange fluid under your car, it could mean there's a leak in the radiator. Leaks can occur due to cracks or holes in the radiator itself or because of faulty hoses and connections. If the coolant is leaking out, it can't do its job.

Rusty or Discolored Coolant

Fresh coolant is typically bright: either green, orange, or pink, depending on the type. If you notice that the coolant has turned rusty or has a murky appearance when you're checking the coolant reservoir, there might be corrosion inside the radiator, and the rust is contaminating your fluid and compromising its performance.

Low Coolant Levels

If you constantly need to top up the coolant, you've probably got a leak somewhere in the system, even if you're not seeing a puddle. Always ensure you use the recommended coolant for your Chevy, and if the first replacement gets used up too quickly, come see us right away to find out what's going on.

Sludge in the Radiator:

Over time, if the coolant isn't changed on schedule or if there's an internal gasket leak, oil can mix with the coolant, creating a sludgy substance. This sludge can prevent the radiator from cooling the engine efficiently.

Damaged or Blocked Fins

The external fins of your radiator dissipate all that engine heat. If they are bent, blocked, or damaged, it reduces the radiator's cooling efficiency. Regularly inspect the radiator for debris or damage.

Heater Problems

The car's heater is a good reflection of how well your radiator is working. If your heater isn't working efficiently during colder months or takes a long time to warm up, it could be related to radiator issues.

Don't wait until a small problem becomes a huge issue. If you're experiencing any of these signs, or you simply want a thorough check-up, bring your Chevy to Bacon Auto Ranch. Our experts will ensure that your ride stays as smooth and efficient as the day you got it.

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Used vs Certified Pre-Owned Cars: How to Choose

When shopping for your next vehicle, you'll encounter two popular options: used cars and certified pre-owned (CPO) cars. While both provide an opportunity to own a vehicle at a lower cost than buying new, they differ in terms of inspection standards, warranties, and overall peace of mind. If you're in Athens, TX, and considering a vehicle purchase, knowing these differences can help you make the best decision. What Are Used Cars? A used car is any pre-owned vehicle sold without the manufacturer-backed certification process. These cars can range widely in age, mileage, and condition. The main appeal of used cars is their affordability. At Bacon Auto Ranch, you’ll find a selection of reliable used vehicles that cater to various budgets and preferences. However, keep in mind that used cars are typically sold without warranties unless otherwise specified by the dealership. What Are Certified Pre-Owned Cars? Certified pre-owned cars are late-model, low-mileage vehicles that have undergone rigorous inspections and meet specific requirements set by the manufacturer. These cars often come with extended warranties, roadside assistance, and additional perks. For buyers in Athens, TX, looking for added assurance, CPO vehicles available at Bacon Auto Ranch offer a balance between cost savings and reliability. Key Differences Between Used vs Certified Pre-Owned Cars Inspection Standards One of the primary distinctions is the inspection process. Certified pre-owned cars undergo comprehensive multi-point inspections covering everything from engine performance to the quality of interior materials. This ensures that CPO vehicles meet high standards for safety and performance. Used cars, while still inspected by dealerships like Bacon Auto Ranch, may not go through such an extensive process. Warranty Coverage Certified pre-owned vehicles often include manufacturer-backed warranties, which can cover major components and offer peace of mind for buyers. On the other hand, most used cars are sold "as-is," meaning you'll be responsible for repairs unless you purchase an additional service plan. For Athens, TX drivers, this difference can be a deciding factor when choosing between the two options. Price Point Used cars are generally more affordable upfront compared to certified pre-owned vehicles. If your budget is tight, a used car might be the most practical choice. However, for those who value added benefits like warranties and thorough inspections, paying a bit more for a certified pre-owned car could be worthwhile. Learn More at Bacon Auto Ranch Now Choosing between used vs certified pre-owned cars comes down to your budget, needs, and peace of mind. If you’re in Athens, TX, Bacon Auto Ranch provides options for both, ensuring you find a vehicle that suits your lifestyle. Whether you prefer the cost-effectiveness of a used car or the added security of a certified pre-owned model, our knowledgeable staff is ready to assist you every step of the way. Stop by our dealership today to explore your options!

The 2025 Chevy Equinox vs. 2025 Chevy Traverse: Compact vs. Midsize SUVs Compared

The 2025 Chevy Equinox and 2025 Chevy Traverse are two reliable SUVs that offer drivers everything they need to travel around our modern world. The Equinox, being a compact SUV, is the ideal vehicle to travel around the city or explore the surrounding areas, while the three-row midsize Traverse makes a strong case as a family hauler. Let's compare these two SUVs side by side. Comparing the Compact 2025 Chevy Equinox vs. Midsize 2025 Chevy Traverse Performance The Equinox is powered by a 1.5L turbocharged inline-four engine that produces 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. The engine pairs with a continuously variable transmission. Front wheel-drive is standard, with all-wheel drive offered as an option. FWD variants are exceptionally thrifty, with EPA estimates of 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. The Traverse uses a bigger 3.6L V6 engine that delivers 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. Like the Equinox, FWD comes standard, but AWD is an available option. If you're looking to tow a trailer or boat, the Traverse is the SUV for you, as it offers a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds with either drivetrain configuration. Interior The Equinox seats five passengers, offering standard cloth upholstery and available leather upholstery in higher trims. The 60/40-split folding rear seats can fold flat, expanding cargo volume to 63.5 cubic feet, which more than doubles the 30 cubic feet offered with the seats upright. An 11-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto comes standard, which is bigger than the Traverse's standard 8-inch unit. The Traverse is designed to hold seven or eight passengers, depending on whether the second row has a bench seat or captain's chairs. The Traverse offers more luxurious amenities than the Equinox, such as ambient lighting, tri-zone automatic climate control, and power-folding rear seats. Cargo capacity totals 98 cubic feet with both rows folded flat. Exterior Aside from the obvious difference in size, the two SUVs share a lot of exterior features such as standard LED lights, an available panoramic sunroof, and a standard or available hands-free power liftgate. The Equinox offers 17 to 19-inch wheels, while the Traverse offers 18 to 20-inch wheels. The Traverse includes power-folding heated side mirrors with integrated turn signals, and roof rails come standard on most trims. While the Traverse's style leans toward bold and muscular, the Equinox has a more sporty aesthetic. Both the Equinox and Traverse are thoroughly competitive SUVs in their respective segments. The smaller, more efficient Equinox helps drivers save money at the pump, while the larger Traverse is suited for bigger families with greater comfort needs. Find your ideal Chevy at Bacon Auto Ranch in Athens, TX.

Trim Levels of the 2025 Chevy Equinox EV

If you're ready to go green in style, the 2025 Chevy Equinox EV is an ideal model. This fully electric small SUV has a competitive long-range thanks to its ultra-efficient electric motor, along with a selection of practical features to simplify your day. See which of the Equinox EV trims is ideal for your lifestyle before contacting your Chevy dealer. Trim Levels of the 2025 Chevy Equinox EV The Equinox EV has three trim levels to choose from. All models are equipped with a single-motor electric propulsion system with front-wheel drive that sends most engine power to the front drive axle to power acceleration. The single-motor electric drivetrain has an estimated driving range of 319 miles. LT 1 The base Equinox EV comes with convenience features like single-zone automatic climate control, which circulates your preferred air conditioning temperature throughout the rest of the cabin, and LED Reflective Windshield Collision Alert. The collision alert system projects a red warning light on the front windshield when collisions are detected to draw your attention to the road so you can perform evasive steering or braking maneuvers. One of the highlights of the Equinox EV is a 17.7-inch central infotainment unit, which can be found on all trim levels. This immersive infotainment system comes with Google Built-In features, so you can take advantage of points of interest via Google Maps, personalize your driver profile, and use natural voice recognition technology to change in-cabin settings hands-free. LT 2 The second-tier model is equipped with Hitch Guidance, a display system that activates when the EV is in Reverse to provide a centered guideline for easier hitching via the Rear Vision Camera. You can also use this system while you're on the road to check on your trailer hookup. Hitch View and a four-wire electrical harness are also standard for this EV model. The LT 2 comes with a standard Comfort Package, which adds weatherized in-cabin amenities like heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, along with two-way lumbar support for the eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat. An interior auto-dimming rearview mirror is also standard. RS The sporty RS model is equipped with 21-inch all-season tires with self-sealing rubber so you can drive short distances when the tire is punctured. This model has an AutoSense power liftgate that can sense when your key fob is near the rear bumper and will automatically open the cargo door for your convenience. The liftgate has programmable memory, so the cargo hatch can open as much or as little as you want. With over 300 miles of driving range and a practical assortment of standard features, the Equinox EV is a well-rounded compact model perfect for eco-conscious drivers. Schedule a test drive at Bacon Auto Ranch in Athens, TX.