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6 Reasons Your Car Won't Start

Nothing puts a damper on your plans quicker than when your car won't start. Understanding some common culprits that can cause your car not to start can help you get back on the road quickly. Whether your vehicle needs a new battery, starter repair, or alternator repair, your local Chevrolet dealership is here to help. Read on as we discuss 6 issues that can cause this frustrating situation. Needs a New Battery If you turn the key and hear a clicking sound or notice dim dashboard lights, your car battery likely needs attention. Jump-starting the battery or replacing it with a new one will likely solve the issue. Needs Starter Repair A grinding noise when turning the key may indicate a problem with the starter motor. The starter is responsible for cranking the engine. However, if there is an issue with the starter motor, it won't be able to draw the battery power required for the engine to start. If you suspect an issue with your starter, it's a good idea to consult the service department at your Chevy dealer. Fuel System Issues A clogged fuel filter, a faulty fuel pump, or an empty gas tank can all contribute to a vehicle not starting. Checking these components and making sure there is fuel in the tank can help identify and/or resolve the problem. While putting fuel in the gas tank can seem like a no-brainer, there could be an issue with your car's gas gauge indicating there is fuel in the tank when it is actually empty. Ignition Switch Issues Under normal circumstances, the ignition switch carries voltage from your battery to the spark plugs. When the switch is faulty, it cannot supply the spark plugs adequately, so the engine cannot get the power to start. Vehicle Needs Alternator Repair at a Chevrolet Dealership When your car runs smoothly, the alternator generates and charges the battery while the engine is running. If there is an issue with the alternator, it may not be able to produce enough power to start the engine. Several other common alternator problems can cause a vehicle not to start correctly, including a damaged alternator belt or a faulty voltage regulator. Engine Issues The reason your car won't start could lie within the engine itself. Faulty timing gear or a malfunctioning crankshaft position sensor can cause this. It can be very frustrating to be behind the wheel of a car that won't start. The solution may be a simple battery jump-start, while other issues will require a professional to diagnose and repair. If you are having trouble starting your vehicle, visit us at Olson Automotive in Redwood Falls, MN, and our expert mechanics will get you back on the highway. Image via Pixabay

The interior passenger and driver seats in a Chevrolet

2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV Maintenance at Your Chevy Dealer

The 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV is a powerful and stylish SUV that offers a thrilling driving experience with zero emissions. But like any car, it still needs regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly and safely. The good news is that electric car maintenance is generally much simpler and less expensive than gasoline-powered cars. Here's what you need to know about scheduling 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV maintenance at your Chevy dealer. One of the biggest benefits of owning an electric car is the reduced maintenance schedule. Unlike gasoline cars, electric vehicles don't have oil changes, spark plugs, or air filters to replace. This saves you time and money, and it also helps to reduce your environmental impact. Key Maintenance Tasks Battery Care The battery is the heart of your electric car, and it's important to treat it with care. Avoid extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, as this can damage the battery. Don't use fast chargers any time you don't need to, and don't fully charge or deplete the battery on a regular basis. Aim to keep it between 20% and 80% charged for optimal lifespan. Cooling System The cooling system helps to keep the battery and other electrical components from overheating. It's important to have the cooling system checked and serviced regularly, according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Check your owner's manual or come to talk to us to be sure you're getting the cooling system maintained at the right intervals. Brakes Even though electric cars have innovative motors, they still have traditional brakes for slowing, and they may even wear out their brakes slightly faster because EVs tend to be heavier than the equivalent gas car and thus take a little more to stop. Tire Care Just like any car, it's important to maintain proper tire pressure and alignment in your Blazer EV. This will help to improve efficiency, handling, and safety. Get your tires inspected at the same intervals you would for any vehicle. Software Updates Chevrolet will periodically release software updates for your Blazer EV. These updates can improve performance, fix bugs, and add new features. It's important to install these updates as soon as they become available. Additional Tips It's always a good idea to consult your owner's manual for the most up-to-date maintenance information specific to your car. Then, find a qualified service center. Not all service centers are familiar with electric cars, so you need a service center that has experience working on EVs, such as Olson Automotive. By following these tips, you can help ensure that your Chevrolet Blazer EV runs smoothly and safely for many years to come. When it does need maintenance, come see us at Olson Automotive in Redwood Falls, MN! Image via Chevrolet

A red Chevrolet Corvette

2024 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray: A Legacy Reimagined

When people make the claim that the 2024 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray is an American cultural icon, no one disputes it. This stunning sports car, first created in 1963, has only gotten better with time. Listed below are some of the reasons that you may want to head down to your Chevy dealer and take a look-see. Exotic, Breathtaking Design at Your Chevy Dealer The engineering prowess and precision styling that went into the design and architecture of this vehicle is unmatched. The car's low frame seems to hug the ground like a cougar ready to pounce. The carefully crafted styling of the grille and the large, sculpted air intakes located on both sides of the vehicle work together to make the car even more aerodynamic while also ensuring that the car's critical components like the engine and brakes remain cool. Insanely Luxurious Interiors The Stingray may be the base model of the 2024 Chevrolet Corvette, but there is absolutely nothing basic about it. It screams pure luxury wherever you look. Lowering yourself into the Stingray feels like you're entering a luxurious sanctuary. Everything inside the cabin has been built to revolve around you, the driver. Luxury features like premium adjustable leather seating and aluminum accents have been included to ensure your comfort, creating an atmosphere where the only thing you have to do is sit back, relax, and drive. The steering wheel comes with a unique flat-top and flat-bottom design equipped with audio controls and paddle shifters, giving you more control over the transmission and allowing you to access your phone or music without taking your hands off the steering wheel. Hi-Tech Cockpit The Stingray's cockpit makes you feel like you're in the captain's chair of a spaceship. Numerous technological features abound, all set off by the digital instrument cluster that provides you with all the information you need in a single space. Relaxing with your favorite music as you roar down the highway is a cinch, thanks to the infotainment system that comes with a high-resolution touch screen. Revolutionary Under-the Hood Features Chevrolet started using a mid-engine layout in the Corvette in 2020. With the engine now placed directly behind the driver's seat, the car has a lower center of gravity, making it easier for you to control and maneuver it. The 2024 Stingray comes with a 6.2 L V8 engine that has 490 available horsepower and 465 lb.-ft of torque. If you choose the Stingray with the Z51 performance package, the available horsepower goes up to 495. The 2024 model of the Stingray is carrying on the Corvette's legacy beautifully. Race over to Olson Automotive in Redwood Falls, MN so that you can test out this beauty for yourself. Image via Chevrolet

A car's speedometer next to it's dashboard

Indicator Lights: An Overview of Chevy Dashboard Lights From Your Chevy Dealer

Understanding the meaning of the indicator lights can assist you in caring for your Chevy. Below, your Chevy dealer tells you everything you need to know about these lights to avoid vehicle damage and ensure your car, SUV, or truck never leaves you stranded. The Check Engine Light Among the dashboard alerts in your car, the check engine light is one of the most important warning lights. Despite its depiction of an engine outline, this light deals with far more advanced technology under the hood. Always pay attention to the check engine light's "CHECK ENGINE" message. It could signal a malfunction in your Chevy's ignition, emissions, ignition, exhaust, or fuel or systems. When the check engine light is illuminated, scheduling an engine diagnostic as soon as possible is highly recommended to avoid severe engine damage. The Battery Warning Light You can easily spot the battery warning light: it looks like a car battery. If this light turns on while you're driving, it signals an issue with your Chevy's charging system and electrical components. It could be anything from wiring issues and alternator problems to a weak battery. It's important to take notice when this light goes on to prevent getting stuck with a dead battery. Have your Chevrolet mechanic check your vehicle's charging system and conduct a battery test to see if a replacement is necessary. Low Fuel Level Warning Light Every driver gets a sinking feeling when the gas pump symbol on the dashboard goes on. The distance you can drive after the low fuel level warning light activates depends on various factors, such as your model, engine, tank size, driving speed, and how fuel-efficient your Chevy is. So, there isn't a set distance you can travel before running out of fuel. Typically, the low fuel level warning light will activate when your gas tank is below 15%. If you drive a smaller car, you'll probably have about 30 miles before you run out of gas. You'll have around 50 miles to find a gas station if you drive a bigger vehicle. The Engine Temperature Warning Light The engine temperature warning light is represented by a thermometer with lines. When this light comes on, it means things are heating up under the hood, and your engine is overheating. Overheating could cause severe damage to your engine if not dealt with immediately. Pull over, turn off the engine, and wait around 15 minutes for the engine to cool down before opening the hood. Inspect the levels of the water and the coolant and top them up if needed. If your Chevy keeps overheating repeatedly, it could be an issue with the cooling system. If you notice the dashboard warning lights staying on after starting your Chevy, it indicates a malfunction that needs urgent attention. Call Olson Automotive in Redwood Falls, MN, right away to book an appointment, and our certified technicians will diagnose and fix the issue expertly. Image via Pixabay

A red Chevrolet Tahoe parked outside near some canyons

The 2024 Chevrolet Tahoe: Combining Luxury and Utility at Your Local Chevrolet Dealer

Power, capability, performance. These are just a few words that undoubtedly come to mind when you hear about the 2024 Chevrolet Tahoe. With six trims to choose from, you'll find the perfect fit for you and your family. This seven-passenger power machine stands out both on the roads and off the roads. See your Chevrolet dealer for a close look at your new SUV. 1. Let's Talk About Power First of all, you have plenty of choices when it comes to trims. These are the LS, the LT, the RST, the Z71, the Premier, and the High Country. Chevy gives you three engine choices as well, which are the Duramax 3.0L Turbo diesel engine, the 5.3L V8, and the 6.2L V8. Each trim has a 10-speed transmission, available four-wheel drive and four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, and an automatic start/stop disable button. In addition, you can opt for a horsepower of up to 420. Also available is a four-corner air ride adaptive suspension, which allows for more ground clearance, especially when venturing off-road. It also lets you lower the vehicle's height so you and your passengers can climb in and out with ease. 2. Intelligent Technology State-of-the-art technology makes driving and riding a breeze. A beautiful 10.2-inch diagonal multicolor infotainment screen gives you access to Bluetooth technology, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability, and more. Some trims even give you the option of the Bose 10-speaker surround with a CenterPoint audio system, so you can listen to your favorite tunes throughout the cabin. You'll also enjoy a 12-inch diagonal color driver information center. Plus, even more options include a three-month trial subscription to SiriusXM with 360L and three years of OnStar Remote Access. 3. Interior Comfort You'll appreciate a luxurious cabin with access to 10-way power driver and passenger front seats, lots of legroom and storage space for everyone in the cabin, a 40/20/40 split-bench front seat, all-weather cargo mats, carpeted floor mats, driver and front passenger visors with illuminated mirrors, interior lighting, USB ports for rear passengers, a 12-V power outlet, power-release second-row bucket seats, and much more. 4. Safety Enhanced The Chevy Safety Assist family features automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, front pedestrian braking, a following distance indicator, lane-keep assist and departure warning, and IntelliBeam. More features include an HD rear-vision camera, HD surround vision, seven airbags, hill start assist, LED daytime running lamps, rear child security door locks, a tire pressure monitoring system, warning tones, and a LATCH system, to name a few. Your new vehicle is just waiting to hit the open road! Stop by Olson Automotive in Redwood Falls, MN and take a test drive today. We are located at 1300 East Bridge St. Image via Chevrolet

A mechanic working on a car wheel

3 Signs You Need a Brake Repair at Your Chevy Dealer

Brakes are a vital part of your Chevy's safety equipment, as they allow you to control your speed and stop at any time. Over time, your brake components will become worn or damaged, and you'll need to visit your Chevy dealer for a brake repair. These are some signs that your brakes are in trouble. Pulling to One Side When you hit the brakes, pressurized brake fluid forces the calipers to close on either side of each wheel rotor. The calipers contain brake pads which generate friction against the smooth rotor surfaces, and this friction brings the wheels to a stop. To ensure safe and effective braking, all the calipers close on the rotors simultaneously. If your car pulls to one side, one of the calipers hasn't engaged, and that wheel continues to move until it's brought to a stop by the other three wheels. The two causes of this situation are a blockage in the brake hose connected to the affected caliper or a rusted or jammed caliper. Our technicians will need to examine your braking system to identify the source of the trouble and then repair it. Leaking Brake Fluid Brake fluid is maintained at high pressure in the braking system, and this pressure allows it to supply the hydraulic force that makes your brakes engage. The braking system generates heat due to the pressure inside it, and the combination of heat, pressure, and time can cause wear and tear on the brake hoses and lines. If the damage becomes severe enough, the braking system can develop leaks. Leaking brake fluid is very difficult to spot, as it's thin and looks like cooking oil. If your brakes are leaking, the first sign you'll experience is decreased resistance when you step on the brake pedal. The resistance is generated by the pressurized brake fluid. As the fluid level drops, your brake will become less responsive. We can fix this situation by tracing the leak and sealing it, then we'll refill the fluid. Burning Chemical Smell Brake fluid ages like any other fluid, and older fluid loses its heat-resistant properties. As we've seen, the brake fluid is pressurized, and if you have to ride your brakes, particularly on a hot day, the brake fluid can overheat. If the temperature rises high enough, the brake fluid can start to burn and release a foul, chemical smell. Burning won't consume the fluid, but it destroys the fluid's ability to provide hydraulic power. Without hydraulic power, your brakes won't work, and you could have an accident. If you smell a burning chemical smell, pull over ASAP and call us so our technicians can investigate and fix the problem. If your brakes don't work as well as they should, call us ASAP at Olsen Automotive in Redwood Falls, MN. Image via Pixabay

A picture of new brakes applied to a wheel in a certified Chevy service center.

Optimizing Your Chevrolet’s Performance with OEM Parts

Using OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts is the best way to optimize your car's performance and help it last as long as possible. From guaranteed fit and performance to ownership costs, fuel efficiency, and beyond, here are some of the benefits of choosing OEM parts from your Chevy dealer. Maintaining Quality Standards Genuine brand-name OEM parts match the technical specifications of the original components installed in your Chevrolet. They are manufactured according to the strict standards set by Chevy, meaning they are the same quality as the parts originally used in your vehicle. Ensuring Perfect Compatibility Parts made by the original equipment manufacturer are designed specifically for Chevrolet models, ensuring a perfect fit every time. These parts fit precisely without the need for modifications or adjustments. Aftermarket parts, on the other hand, may require adjustment to achieve a proper fit. This can lead to more problems, reducing the performance of your vehicle. Reliable Performance Brand-name parts are designed and tested by Chevrolet. This includes the use of high-quality materials and precise engineering. Aftermarket parts may not always adhere to these stringent specifications, which can damage the overall performance of your Chevy. Improved Safety Using genuine parts ensures that your car operates as intended. This is especially important when it comes to safety. Brand-name parts are designed to work seamlessly with the other components of your Chevy, maintaining the intended handling and safety features. Lower Long-Term Cost While aftermarket parts may initially seem more cost-effective, they can lead to increased spending in the long term. Compatibility issues, premature wear, and the need for more frequent replacements can all drive the true cost of off-brand parts up. Investing in genuine parts offers a better long-term value. These parts tend to last longer, require less frequent replacement, and help maintain the overall value of your car. Optimized Fuel Efficiency Genuine parts can contribute to maintaining your Chevrolet's fuel efficiency. Properly designed and fitted components ensure the engine and other systems operate efficiently, which can translate to better fuel economy. Enhanced Performance for Sports Models For sports models, genuine parts are particularly crucial. These vehicles require precise engineering to perform their best, and brand-name parts are specifically designed to meet their standards. Aftermarket parts may not be able to match the exact requirements of the original parts, impacting acceleration, handling, and the overall driving experience. Preserving Warranty Coverage Using parts made by the original manufacturer helps maintain your Chevy's warranty, which typically requires that brand-name parts be used for repairs and maintenance during the warranty period. Visit Your Chevy Dealer for OEM Parts Go to your local dealership for the best selection of genuine parts. We can help you choose and install the correct parts for your car. The use of genuine brand-name parts can significantly benefit your car's performance. The Service Center at Olson Automotive is staffed by expert, Chevy-certified professionals using the most advanced technology available. They know your car backwards and forwards, inside out and they will get you back on the road with the reliable performance you deserve. Contact Olson Automotive for all your repair and replacement needs.

A head-on picture of a dark blue metallic Chevy Camaro, looking powerful and aggressive.

Revving Up: 3 Impressive Features of the 2024 Chevrolet Camaro

Are you a fan of thrilling rides, pure power, and a design you won't want to look away from? Is the classic American muscle car exactly what you want? You should be intrigued by the new 2024 Chevrolet Camaro. with a wide range of impressive features and a design that will turn heads wherever you go. Let's take a look at some of what makes it such a stunning ride. 3 Powerful Features of the 2024 Chevy Camaro 1. The Ultra-Strong Powertrains With the 2024 Chevy Camaro, you have three powertrain choices, and none of them will disappoint. The standard 3.6-liter V6 can get to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds and 5.4 seconds depending on the car's configuration. Producing 335 hp and 284 lb-ft of torque, it's a really powerful standard engine. An available 6.2-liter LT1 V8, getting from 0 to 60 in 4.3 seconds or 4 seconds flat, is a great choice if you want something a little more powerful. Drivers seeking an ultra-thrilling experience should opt for the 650-hp 6.2-liter LT4 V8 engine. It can get from 0 to 60 the fastest out of all three powertrains, at 3.7 and 3.5 seconds. It also produces 650 lb-ft of torque, so you know that's going to provide an unforgettable ride. 2. The Unforgettable Design and Collector Edition In Chevy's own words, the Camaro is "aggressively elegant." It's stunning, with a smooth, contoured, aerodynamic body, sleek headlights, and a very bold grille. The Collector Edition has a particularly unique design, and it's available on all trims. The LT, LT1, and SS Collector Editions have a black metallic tintcoat and center stripe, while the ZL1's version has a matte black exterior with a black metallic center stripe. All trims with the Collector Edition have 20-inch wheels. The ZL1's are dark graphite, premium painted, and forged aluminum. The other three trims can be equipped with either black or polished 5-split-spoke forged aluminum wheels. There are many more bold design choices you'll love feasting your eyes on across the various trims. There are three design packages for those of you who love customization, and you'll also want to check out the Redline Edition. 3. The Safety Features You need to be extra safe while driving a car this powerful, and the range of available driver assistance features can help you out with that. A rear vision camera is standard, and there are numerous available safety features including forward collision alert and lane change alert. Whether you’re in it to turn heads on your daily drive or you intend to tear up the track with the powerhouse engines, you’ll have all the safety features you need to protect you. The latest model Chevy Camaro is a beast of a sedan with rumbling engines, an unforgettable design, and all the intelligent driver aids you need to take your muscle car experience to the next level. The Collector’s Edition is like a cherry on top. Are you ready for the most thrilling test drive of your life? Contact Olson Automotive to check out the Camaro in person today.

A head-on image of a silver 2024 Chevy Equinox on a night street after a rainfall.

The 2024 Chevrolet Equinox: Redefining the SUV Experience

If you're looking for a comfortable SUV with good city and highway MPG and optional all-wheel drive, the 2024 Chevrolet Equinox at your Chevy dealer is an excellent pick. Available in a selection of stunning colors to suit every taste and featuring tons of space for passengers and cargo, this vehicle is a go-to model for everything from outdoor adventure to a daily drive in 2024. Check out the ways that the new 2024 Equinox redefines the SUV Experience. 2024 Chevrolet Equinox: Setting the Standard for Small SUVs Intelligent Safety Features Thanks to Chevy Safety Assist, you'll always be able to rest easy so that your 2024 Chevy Equinox has your back, safety-wise. Features like Forward Collision Alert and Automatic Emergency Braking help you spot objects in your path and instantly apply the brakes as needed. Lane Keeping Assist keeps you centered in your lane on long highway drives, alerting you if you start to veer, and a Following Distance Indicator keeps a safe distance between you and the vehicles around you. You'll also love the Intellibeam Auto High Beams, which can cut through any visibility conditions and give you a clear line of sight to what is happening around you. Other top safety features include a rear camera for easy parking and Adaptive Cruise Control for easy driving on longer rides. Exceptional Technology Stay plugged in and always entertained with the Chevrolet Infotainment System, which is easily accessible from the driver's seat. It comes with an optional Alexa built-in, fast and robust Wi-Fi throughout the vehicle, and it can connect with your smartphone in a flash. You'll be able to tap into all of the data on your phone, including contacts, music, and podcasts, without having to take your attention off the road for even an instant. Robust and Reliable Performance This vehicle is ready to explore wherever you can imagine, thanks to its EPA-estimated 26 MPG city and 31 MPG highway, driven by a powerful 1.5L turbocharged engine that can help you navigate through everything. Plus, you have the option of utilizing all-wheel drive to give you enhanced traction and control in every condition. It's the ride that works with you, and you'll feel comfortable navigating the harshest terrain in this vehicle. Tons of Cargo Space No matter what you want to bring along for the ride, this vehicle can accommodate it with an available 63.9 cubic feet of cargo space. There's also under-floor storage, and you can configure the back seats in several ways to fit more people and pack in that extra bit of cargo for an outdoor adventure. Check out the 2024 Chevrolet Equinox if you're looking for an SUV that truly does it all. Once you take a spin, you'll understand why it's one of this year's favorite models. Contact Olson Automotive and schedule a test drive today.

Discover the Versatility of the 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV

The all-new 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV is the latest addition to the impressive Chevy lineup. The Blazer EV won the 2024 Motor Trend SUV of the Year award and sits at the top of the EV market. Learn more about the features of this fully electric SUV before you visit your local Chevy dealer. 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV Power, Performance, and Safety The powertrain for the Blazer EV is an 85 kWh Ultium propulsion battery, which has an AWD electric propulsion system that produces 288 horsepower and 333 lb-ft of torque. The EPA-estimated driving range for the LT and RS models is 279 miles, and the combined EPA-estimated fuel economy is 96 MPGe. The new Chevy Blazer EV has standard Chevy Safety Assist active safety features. Chevy Safety Assist consists of features such as forward collision alert, following distance indicating, front pedestrian braking, and automatic emergency braking. The LT also has LED reflective windshield collision alert, safety alert seat, rear park assist, rear cross-traffic braking, and blind zone steering assist. Trim Levels LT The LT is equipped with standard features like daytime running lights, IntelliBeam, an acoustic laminated windshield, body-colored mirror caps and door handles, and 19-inch machined-face aluminum wheels. Standard interior features include a rear window defogger, front bucket seats, single-zone automatic climate control, USB data ports, and a wrapped steering wheel with contrast stitching. RS The RS comes with standard features such as an AutoSense power liftgate, rainsense automatic wipers, exterior choreography LED lighting, and 21-inch machined-face aluminum wheels. Roof rails, an illuminated front light bar, LED headlamps, and Gloss Black mirror caps are also standard exterior features. The RS has interior standard features such as ventilated front seats, a six-speaker stereo system, remote start, a 60/40 fold-flat rear seat, ambient lighting, and an 11-inch color Driver Information Center display. This trim also has a 17.7-inch LCD color display with Google compatibility, navigation, connected apps, and voice recognition. SS The SS trim is scheduled for release in the spring of 2024. The highest trim level of the Blazer EV pushes the limits of EV performance with an extended electric driving range of 294 miles when equipped with Performance AWD. This performance-tuned trim will have 22-inch multi-finish wheels, an estimated acceleration speed of four seconds, and luxurious finishes. Color Options The LT and RS color options are Summit White, Black, Iridescent Pearl Tricoat, Sterling Gray Metallic, Red Hot, Radiant Red Metallic, Galaxy Gray Metallic, and Riptide Blue Metallic. The SS color options are two-tone variants of the LT and RS paint colors. If you want to blaze into the future with an eco-friendly vehicle, then the Blazer EV is an ideal SUV for you. You can take this fully electric SUV out for a spin when you visit Olson Automotive today.

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