Baseball, Hot Dogs, Apple Pie and Chevrolet

Posted by admin on July 1, 2011

Since 1911, Chevrolet has been a part of the American tradition. If you’ve owned a Chevy, you know it’s more than just a car – it’s part of your family. You let it sleep in your garage; you gave it a name; you wash it by hand. There’s nothing more American than Chevrolet. WAIT! There is more to read… read on »

Road Trip Time? Not So Fast!

Posted by admin on June 10, 2011

Memorial Day has come and gone, officially marking the unofficial beginning of summer. So what will you be doing – taking a road trip with the family, having your very own staycation in town, or just going about business as usual? WAIT! There is more to read… read on »

Pain at the Pump? A Thing of the Past

Posted by admin on May 27, 2011

Just like the heat and humidity of St. Louis, the rise in gas prices is just another little reminder that, yes, summer is on its way. You might have planned a road trip to spend your vacation and these gas prices aren’t helping any. Whether it’s across the country to visit the grandparents or just across the state to see some friends, don’t let gas prices keep you indoors this summer. WAIT! There is more to read… read on »

It’s Time to Clean That Car

Posted by admin on May 20, 2011

We know you’re excited about your “Staycation” this summer in St. Louis – Forest Park, Grant’s Farm, and your favorite museums. But before you hit the road, there’s one thing you ought to do: clean that car! WAIT! There is more to read… read on »

April Showers: Johnny Londoff Chevrolet St. Louis Tips for Driving in the Rain

Posted by admin on March 11, 2011

As the seasons change, so do the driving conditions.

When the road is wet, a film of water on concrete can have a severe effect on your GM Certified vehicle tires, causing them to lose traction and potentially do harm to you and other drivers.  Of course, there are other factors that can influence driver’s perceptions – like visibility – when it comes to navigating wet road conditions.

So before becoming another traffic statistic, Johnny Londoff Chevrolet – home of St. Louis’ best Chevrolet service and selection of new vehicles – presents a few tips to help ensure that you get to your destination — safe and sound.

Eyes on the road. Be alert in severe weather conditions. Focus on other drivers in front of you and should there be one traveling immediately in front of you, drive through and follow them: it gives your vehicle a better chance to get traction in situations where the water has began to form a deep puddle.

Headlights…are on. In the state of Missouri—and several other states—it is required by law that if your wipers are on, your headlights must be on as well. Having the lights on not only helps improve your visibility but also offers visibility to other drivers on the roads. Do not, however, dial up your high beams – they can cause reflection and obscure viewing, especially during nighttime driving in rainy and fog-like conditions.

Hands-off Hydroplane. When roadways take on way too much storm water causing large puddles, hydroplaning may occur. Simply put, hydroplaning occurs when a layer of water builds between the tire and the road surface, leading to the loss of traction and preventing the vehicle from responding to steering, braking or accelerating. If it occurs along all four wheels, the vehicle becomes uncontrollable.  To lessen the possibility of serious harm, don’t suddenly jerk the wheel or slam the brakes: release the accelerator slowly and steer the vehicle straight until it regains traction. If braking is required, put your foot down.

So take a few precautions with your GM certified vehicle when heading out in heavy rains and use these wet-weather driving tips to keep you from waiting for motorist assistance or becoming a statistic.

To experience the Johnny Londoff Chevrolet difference for yourself, stop by our dealership on Interstate 270 at the Washington & Elizabeth exit in St. Louis or visit us online 24/7 at both Londoff.com and Facebook.

Summer Fuel Saving Tips

Posted by admin on July 23, 2010

Gas prices continue to fluctuate and we have put together a list of tips to help you be fuel efficient while keeping your vehicle running in the best condition.

1)    Regularly check the maintenance on your vehicle to keep it running at its top performance. We recommend every three months.  By having regular maintenance checks, you are able to keep your battery, spark plugs and air filters in the best running condition which will improve the gas mileage in the long run.

2)    Use the proper oil for your vehicle and make sure to use the manufacturer’s recommended grade of motor oil. Energy conserving oil is available which reduces friction.

3)    Use lower octane gasoline unless your vehicle requires specific gasoline.  By purchasing the lowest grade of gasoline appropriate for your car will save on costs.

4)    Do not top off when you’re pumping gas even though it’s always nice to pump your gas right on the dollar, but after the nozzle clicks, the extra gas you’re pumping in is useless. The tank will be too full and it’ll seep out. Gasoline will evaporate from the tank if you are missing a gas cap or it is not tightened properly.

5)    As much as possible, park your vehicle in the shade.  Direct sunlight also causes your gasoline to evaporate as well.

6)    Keep your tires inflated properly because under-inflated tires decrease a cars gas mileage and wear down quicker. Tires with low pressure have more resistance so the engine is going to work harder. Check your tire pressure once a month when your tires are cold and early in the morning.

Please share your fuel saving tips with us.

St. Louis Attractions – Summer Fun Around the City

Posted by admin on July 16, 2010

Looking for some fun things to do this summer close to home (if you call St. Louis home that is)? For those of you a bit further away, we hope you can visit soon to check out these great attractions that are in our backyard. We have the perfect list of various things to do that are just a hop, skip and a jump away.

• Take a scenic drive in your vehicle. From a joy ride on Route 66, to a stop at the Shaw National Reserve, to a peaceful drive along the river, enjoy the beauty around the area.
• Explore the 1,293 acres of Forest Park with its beautiful walking paths, historical monuments, as well as attractions such as the having lunch at the Boathouse or take a stroll through the hundreds of flowers that fill the Jewelbox.
• Looking for an adrenaline rush?? A trip to Six Flags St. Louis is just what you need. With over 10 thrill rides to excite you. This local favorite has something for everyone, from rides specifically for the kids, to the daily entertainment shows, to the state-of-the-art water park to cool down.
• Take a tour at Anheuser-Busch Brewery. Your tour guide will take you through the brewing heritage, technology and architecture in the historic building. Plus for those of age, sample several of ABs products.
• Spending the day at the St. Louis Zoo in the heart of Forest Park is a must. It’s free admission to interact with the various species and sections of the park. From the sub-Antarctic to tropical rain forests, see penguins, bears, apes, flamingos and reptiles.
• Need some more interaction with animals? Check out Purina Farms for one of their many events or dog show. Take a trip to the World Bird Sanctuary for a free, family friendly environmental program.  Plus there are many exciting animal encounters available at Grant’s Farm, take a tour, visit one of their interactive shows and you shouldn’t leave without petting and hand-feeding the goats.
• Have you ever seen St. Louis from 630 feet in the air? Ride to the top of the Gateway Arch. Experience the Museum of Westward Expansion, to the latest exhibits at the Historic Old Courthouse to a sightseeing cruise along the river. If you’re going to be visiting the Arch in the evening, take a carriage ride or throughout the summer stop by Celebrate St. Louis Summer Concerts located at Soldiers Memorial.
• Downtown St. Louis has no shortage of activities either. Enjoy the distinctive Citygarden which offers vibrant plantings and sculptures. Take a stroll around Kiener Plaza. If you are outside of the city, there are many different areas to explore like The Hill, Soulard, Clayton, The Loop, Lafayette Square, Dogtown among others.
• If sports are your passion, St. Louis has the best baseball town. Cheer on the St. Louis Cardinals to victory with an ice-cold beverage and some the best nachos. When it’s not baseball season, indulge in a Rams or Blues game with thousands of other fans.
• St. Louis has no shortage of museums or breathtaking experiences. Be sure to visit the Black World History Museum, Faust Historic Village, Art Museum and the Missouri History Museum, Museum of Transportation or Gateway International Raceway.
• If you’re feeling lucky, we have five casinos calling your name. The newest located in the heart of South County, River City Casino.  River City joins Lumière Place, Harrah’s, Ameristar and Casino Queen. Go for an hour or stay for a night, there are no limits.
• The Missouri Botanical Garden and Butterfly House both explore the research, conservation and restoration of nature. Relish in the magnificent beauty that both these attractions have to offer.
• Need to spend the day that has something for everyone? The Science Center, City Museum and Majic House are just the places to go. With hands-on experiences for children and adults like the OMNIMAX, funhouses and or create a three-dimensional image of yourself.

There are many activities and attractions throughout the St. Louis area. Hop in your car, set the radio on your favorite station and cruise to your favorite local destination.

Summer Road Trip Vehicle Checklist

Posted by admin on May 26, 2010

Traveling on a road trip with friends or family takes some time to plan and prepare for.  One of the last things that may be on your mind is, “is my vehicle ready?”  Ensure your vehicle is ready for the road ahead by checking these off your list.

• Under the hood maintenance – Ensure that fluids are all full, wiper blades are in good working condition, and that the filters, hoses, belts, cooling system, brakes and tires are all checked prior to your travels.
• It’s hot out, make sure you stay cool - With the summer heat approaching, you will want to make sure your air conditioning system is working properly.
• Battery Charged – Your vehicle’s battery should be checked at least once a year and especially before leaving on a road trip.  If your battery hasn’t been checked in several years or is old, have it replaced as necessary.
• Don’t Overload – Check your owner’s manual for the maximum load capacity. Overloading your vehicle can cause your vehicle systems to shut down.
• Lights and Signals – Test all your lights inside your vehicle to make sure they are working properly.  Turn on all signals including your hazards lights and make sure the front & rear signals are simultaneously illuminating and flashing properly.  Replace any lights that are becoming dim.
• Road side emergency kits – Prepare for the road ahead by packing a kit that includes various wrenches & screwdrivers, flashlights, jumper cable, spare set of keys, tire gauge and a spare tire is full of air as well as a first aid kit.

If you are unfamiliar with how to check that your vehicle is running properly check your vehicle manual, visit www.edmunds.com for various tips on maintaining your vehicle or schedule an appointment at your local dealership.

Make sure you are packed with plenty of entertainment depending on the length of your trip and have a fun, safe trip!