The new year brings with it resolutions to be more productive, eat healthy, lose weight, get in shape and more. But if you’re hopping into a messy car to drive to the gym, your resolve can be zapped before you even get your key in the ignition. A messy car interior can also lead to the need for Fort Lauderdale Collision Repair.

Cleaning your car out and keeping it organized can be a great new habit to start in 2019, and we’ve got some quick and easy car organization tips to get you going:

1. Declutter. Start with two bags, one for trash and one for things that you intend to keep. Lots of items get left behind in the car but don’t belong there. Put them in the non-trash bag and return them to their proper location once you’ve finished cleaning the car.

2. Clean. Now that you have all the clutter out, give your vehicle a good deep cleaning wiping down the dash, instruments, cup holders, windows, doors, and sweeping the upholstery and floor. You’ll be surprised just how quickly you can thoroughly clean your car.

3. Plan Ahead. Once your car is clean, make a plan to keep it that way. Add a small garbage can to your car. You can use a plastic cereal bin lined with a plastic bag for this. Now, you have a place for the trash that can accumulate in door panels and on the floor. When you fill your car up with gas, empty the trash can at the same time.

4. Organize. Keep your essential paper work organized in the glove box. You can get a cheap coupon organizer to hold registration, insurance papers or cards, emergency medical and contact information, warranties, and more.

5. Utilize. Many people have had a near death experience trying to pick up a dropped smart phone—especially while using a navigation app. It’s a great idea to invest in a smartphone car mount. There are a lot of choices from ones that clip to the vents and others that insert into the CD player so you can find one that works best for you.

6. Maximize. Did you find bills, receipts and other important items while you were cleaning up? Attaching an organizer to your visor can offer you a place to store important items such as sunglasses, pens, or receipts.

7. Upkeep. Now that you’ve done such a great job getting your car in tip top shape, keep it that way. Each time you exit the car, take a look around and see if there’s trash that needs to be disposed of or clothing, packages, etc. that need to be put away in your home. If you’re a parent, kids can be huge contributors to messy cars. Make sure that they bring all their belongings in with them and throw their trash away upon exiting the car.

Work hard to keep your car clean! It’s a reflection of you! And if you need some body work or a new coat of paint to bring your car back to life, give the Fort Lauderdale Collision Repair experts at Grieco Collision Center a call, at 888-451-0538

This has been an interesting year for the North American auto industry. Chevy revealed a newly designed Silverado and media reported a slump in new car sales despite a growing economy. And 2019 brings auto trends that will make everyone sit up and take notice, including Ford’s plan to focus 90% of their portfolio on crossovers, trucks and SUVs discontinuing production of all cars except the Mustang and Focus Active.

Other manufacturers seem to be following these trends and increasing the focus on auto safety, electrification, AI and even subscription plans that allow you to upgrade your vehicle just like you upgrade your smart phone. In fact, Lincoln, Porsche and Cadillac already rolled out such plans.

The biggest market for new car buyers remains SUVs and crossovers, and they will have plenty to choose from. Here are a few of the vehicles chosen as the best 2019 Car Models for Safety according to Kelley Blue Book:

Honda CR-V:

Top rated for safety and with room for 5 passengers, ample cargo bay, and an available turbo-charged engine, the 2019 CR-V will continue to stand out in 2019 as one of the nation’s best-selling compact crossovers. This is a solid, dependable vehicle but it doesn’t support heavy towing or off-roading and it doesn’t accelerate like a sports car. But it carries impressive amenities and safety features with a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) starting right around $25,345 for the base LX model

Chevy VS. Ford

In the full-size category, Chevy siblings Tahoe and Suburban have been the undisputed sales leaders. However, the 2019 Ford Expedition will give them a run for their money with state-of-the-art technology and design. In fact, the Expedition beats the Tahoe in a few categories including higher tow rating, superior ride and handling, a level cargo floor and comparatively decent fuel economy for a full-size SUV. And you can now add a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system. That’s the high-end brand by Harman associated with Audi and Aston Martin. MSRP for a 2019 Ford Expedition XLT starts around $50,000 and goes all the way to about  $77,350 for the Max.

2019 Acura MDX

In the luxury SUV category, the 2019 Acura MDX is competent and highly recommended. It comes standard with V6 power and impressive safety features. This 3-row luxury crossover SUV rivals its European counterparts such as the Audi Q7, BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE. With a reputation for reliability and excellent resale value, the 2019 MDX A-Spec model features standard all-wheel drive. The MSRP range is $45,295 – $61,045

For More information, contact us today!

This time of year many of us are thinking about giving from our overflowing cup and helping those in need. Whether you are looking for South Florida volunteer opportunities or where to donate goods, we’ve compiled a list of resources to help.

Broward Outreach Center encourages South Florida residents to consider donating used clothing and other items to help those in various outreach centers. Donated items are distributed or sold to raise money for their homeless programs. Whether you’re moving, spring cleaning, or simply looking for a few more tax deductions before the end of the year, Broward Outreach Center will pick up your items at no charge and provide a receipt for your taxes. Fill out the contact form on their website or call 1-800-817-HOPE for more information. 

Feeding South Florida, the leading domestic hunger-relief organization in South Florida serves 25% of Florida’s hungry in Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade, and Monroe counties. In addition to distributing more than 50 million pounds of food (42 million meals) per year, Feeding South Florida also leads hunger and poverty advocacy efforts through innovative programming and education. In order to help them with their mission, Feeding South Florida accepts donations of food and funds, and relies on volunteers 12 and older to sort and inspect food donations. They also provide community service hours. Volunteer hours are available: Tuesday through Saturday
8:30am to 11:30am & 1:30pm to 4:30pm. Click here for more information about volunteering and donating.

South Florida Donation Center offers great service and quick pickups throughout South Florida. Donations of gently used clothing and furniture help support a variety of Jewish foundations from Key Largo to Palm Beach, Miami to Boca Raton and throughout the tri-county area. Donations to: B’nai B’rith, Greater Miami Jewish Federation, Jewish Community Services, Jewishmiami.org, Miami Beach JCC, Miami Jewish Health Systems, and Soref JCC are all accepted through South Florida Donation Center. Schedule your quick pick up and get a receipt for your tax-deductible donation.

HandsOn Broward leverages the power of people and socially responsible businesses to affect positive change in Broward County. HandsOn Broward inspires, equips and mobilizes thousands of volunteers to transform communities through meaningful volunteer projects such as revitalizing schools, parks, and playgrounds and build sustainable gardens. Volunteer opportunities are available year-round for people of all ages to help in work that positively impacts the community, protects the environment and teaches financial literacy. For more information call: (954) 233-1300 or send an email to contactus@handsonbroward.org .

Florida Breast Cancer Foundation encourages South Florida residents to donate used clothing, furniture and household goods to Pickupsforbreastcancer.org to help them end breast cancer through advocacy, education and research. Donations provide valuable funding for all of the programs and events sponsored by the Florida Breast Cancer Foundation and are fully tax-deductible. The Florida Breast Cancer Foundation accepts donations in the South Florida Tri-County area. To schedule a pickup call toll free 1-888-492-4483 or click here for the online scheduling form.

For More Information Feel Free To Contact Us.

✓ Costumes picked out.
✓ Bulk candy bags purchased.
✓ Ghoulish & creepy decor laid out.

It must be Halloween! While this time of year is full of tricks & treats, it’s also one of the most dangerous times to be a pedestrian.

Halloween Driving Tips

According to the US Department of Transportation, pedestrian fatalities are at the highest they’ve been in decades. Do your part this year and follow these easy Halloween driving tips:

Halloween Driving Tips for Drivers

• Avoid using handheld electronic devices.
• If you see a drunk driver or impaired pedestrian on the road, contact local law enforcement.
• Be especially alert for all road users, including pedestrians, at night.
• If traveling for parties or trick-or-treating, try to park in well-lit areas. Keep windows tinted to avoid theft and park away from other vehicles to avoid accidental dings.
• Slow down in areas where pedestrians are likely to be or where sight distances are limited.
• Keep your windshield & headlights clean.

Halloween Driving Tips for Pedestrians

• Walk on a sidewalk if one is available. If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic, as far to the side as safely possible.
• Follow the rules of the road at driveways and intersections.
• Make yourself as visible to motorists as possible. Carry a flashlight, wear a small flashing strobe light, and wearing reflective clothing. Bright colored clothing is not enough!

If your car is in need of repair before your Halloween excursions, contact us today at 888-451-0538.

SOURCE: https://www.nhtsa.gov/halloween-safety-tips

“This stand-still traffic is just what I needed!”…said no one. Ever.

You might be horrified to realize that the average American spends about 40 hours per year stuck in traffic. This seems like a really gigantic waste of our precious time. It’s such a waste of time that some experts have done studies on how we can reduce the time spent in our cars. The solution is as simple as carpooling.

Carpooling to Reduce Traffic

By carpooling once per week, American traffic could be cut by up to 20%. Up ridesharing to twice per week and we would spare 1,600 pounds of greenhouse gasses per year. In addition to clearing up roads and cleaning up the environment, carpooling can help people save the one thing everyone seems to want more of: Money.

How Carpooling Saves You Money

1. Less Car Maintenance: Reducing how much you drive your vehicle means less wear and tear. Less wear and tear equates to fewer oil changes and tire rotations, and an overall reduction in routine car maintenance. Estimates show that the average carpooler can save up to $600 per month. Additionally, driving your vehicle less means it will depreciate at a slower rate amounting to a higher resale or trade-in value if you eventually decide to upgrade your car.
2. Lower Insurance Premiums: Insurance companies calculate your premiums based on several factors including age, type of vehicle, and the amount you drive. Obviously the more you drive, the greater the risk of an accident. Carpooling cuts back on your mileage and may help you qualify for additional discounts. Ask your insurance provider if they offer discounts for low mileage and/or carpooling.
3. Plunging Pump Prices: In 2015, the average household spent almost $2,000 on gas. Additionally, it takes about 13 million barrels of oil to fuel the nearly 300 million cars driving on US roads. Participating in a carpool saves you money on gas as well as helping the environment by cutting back on pollution and unnecessary oil drilling.

Carpooling Etiquette

If you decide carpooling is the right choice for you, tips to keep your carpool buddies on friend-terms:

Carpooling DOs

• Keep your vehicle clean and clutter-free
• Drive safely obeying speed limits and respecting other traffic laws
• Respect other people’s vehicles: Don’t eat, drink, or smoke in anyone’s car unless this is something that’s been agreed upon beforehand.
• Set guidelines for what is okay and not okay in yours and other carpool members’ cars
• Be courteous and communicate. Let your fellow carpoolers know if you are running late or if you can’t carpool on a certain day.

Carpooling DON’Ts

• Bring up controversial topics such as religion or politics unless you know in advance that you and your fellow carpoolers enjoy discussing/debating such topics.
• Ask drivers to stop along the way for you to take care of personal business.
• Make a habit of being late.
• Talk on the phone at length or monopolize conversations while in the carpool.

Need help making sure your car is ready for the carpool lane? Contact Grieco Collision today at 888-451-0538 or schedule an appointment!

We get it. You’re busy. Summer is over, the kids are back to school, and you’re managing your hectic schedule—possibly alongside other people’s schedules. In between home, the office, the grocery store, the bank, swim practice, and whatever else life throws your way, your car isn’t just a vehicle. Your car is the key to managing all of this!

Can Your Car’s Tires Handle Your Life?

You’re managing enough. Don’t let your car’s tires create more work for you! Make sure your car’s tires can keep on rolling with the punches with this handy guide:

Check Tire Pressure

Underinflated tires not only cost you money via less fuel-efficiency, they also increase your risk of accidents. Don’t rely on your car’s tire-pressure monitoring system and always check your tire pressure when tires are cold (about 3 hours after parked).

Check Tire Tread

You already know we’re big fans on the penny test. That’s because it’s so simple, a third grader could do it.

To determine if your tires have excessive wear by placing a penny between two raised sections on the surface of your tire. If Lincoln’s head is visible, it’s probably time for replacement tires.

Check Tire Sidewalls

Inspect your tires for cuts, bulges, or any other abnormalities. These issues lead to much greater risks of blowouts or accidents.

If your tires just don’t cut it, contact Grieco Collision Center! We’re offering 10% off new tires or tire repair! We’ll make sure your tires don’t derail you or your schedule.

It seems like only yesterday that the final school bell of the year rang. And despite kids still playing outside and enjoying their summer vacations, the new school year is looming ever nearer. Make sure your car is ready for the carpool with our handy Back-to-School Car Care Checklist.

Back-to-School Car Care Checklist

Whether you’re returning to classes yourself, preparing your daughter or son to move to their college dorm, or will be toting your children to and from grade school, you want to make sure your vehicle is kid-safe and road ready. Follow these 5 tips to SAVE your care from back-to-school season!

#1: Car Safety Checklist

• Brake inspection: Schedule a professional brake inspection to go over your car’s braking system. The inspection will cover the brake pads, rotors, drums, and make sure your technician checks the brake fluids, too. If your dashboard brake light is on or you hear noises when braking, you may need to have your brakes services.
• Check tire tread & pressure: Check your car’s tire pressure and refill any underinflated tires, including the spare. Use the penny test to determine your if your tires have excessive wear by placing a penny between two raised sections on the surface of your tire. If Lincoln’s head is visible, it may be time to replace the tire because your tread is no longer deep enough.
• Seat belts & car seats: Make sure your seat belts are lock properly by sharply pulling forward. Also make sure car seats are up-to-date for your child’s size and are properly installed. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has simple tips on seat belt fit & car seat installation.
• Roadside Emergency Kit: It’s a good idea to keep a small kit of tools & first aid materials in case of emergencies. Your kit should include:
  • Jumper cables
  • Tire jack
  • Adjustable wrench
  • Flares
  • Bandages
  • Antibiotic ointment
  • Ice packs
  • Flashflight
  • Batteries
  • Blanket

#2: Car Air Conditioning & Heating Checklist

• Have your car’s A/C checked and serviced. Make sure your technician checks fluid levels, drains & pans, electrical connections, and tubing. If needed, replace the air filter and repair any leaks or problems.

#3: Car Visibility Checklist

• Check external lights: Make sure dirt & debris aren’t dimming your head or tail lights. Check all lights, including brake lights, reverse lights, and turn signals. Realign any misaimed headlights to avoid blinding other drivers on the road.
• Check/replace windshield wipers: If your windshield wipers are scraping the windshield, making noises, or leaving patches, replace them before school carpool season. Make sure you have the correct fit for your vehicle and that it’s properly installed.
• Check for windshield cracks: Small debris from trucks and highways can crack from your windshield. Repair any cracks immediately by contacting your collision center.

#4: Car Engine Checklist

• Fluid levels: Check all engine fluid levels, including oil, coolant, transmissions, and power steering fluid. Refer to your owner’s manual for the locations of fluids and proper maintenance levels. Check hoses and, if needed, fix any leaks.
• Battery: Test your car’s battery to ward off unwanted surprises. If your engine is showing signs of decreased performance, such as flow engine turnover, odd smells, or a swollen battery case, replace your battery.
• Dashboard lights: If your dashboard is displaying any warning lights, have them addressed immediately yourself or your mechanic.

And make sure your car is looking its best for back-to-school, too! Bring your vehicle to Grieco Collision to get rid of any dents or scratches, or for a fresh detail. Don’t fret going back to school, your next summer vacation is coming sooner than you think!

Florida Hurricane Season 2018

Last year was one of the most devastating hurricane seasons on record, and weather experts are already warning Floridians that conditions are ripe for an above average number of hurricanes in 2018.

A typical hurricane season sees 12 named storms. For 2018, Colorado State University researchers are predicting 14 named storms. Since Florida has suffered direct hits two years in a row, this seems like a great time to go over some safety tips for driving in rainy, windy, and otherwise adverse weather conditions.

Driving During Hurricane Season

Obviously, the best advice is to stay OFF the roads. Especially during conditions with strong wind or rain. If driving is unavoidable, here are some precautions you can take to make sure you stay safe during Florida hurricane season:

Before You Get on the Road

• Keep your vehicle properly maintained and make sure your tires have enough tread for wet roads. To check tire tread, place a penny between two raised sections on the surface of your tire. If Lincoln’s head is visible, it may be time to replace the tire because your tread is no longer deep enough.
• Don’t assume that your Jeep or SUV is weather proof. Often the height of these vehicles works against them in inclement weather because they are more prone to rollovers in high winds and on wet roads. SUV drivers must be especially careful crossing bridges and making turns.

Once on the Road

• Limit distractions: Turn off your phone and turn down the radio so that you can focus your attention on the road.
• When driving in heavy wind, anticipate gusts in areas such as overpasses, tunnels and any area that can act as a funnel for wind.
• Be aware of larger vehicles that can be thrown around by high winds. They may have trouble staying in their lanes. Give these and other vehicles extra space.
• Keep a firm grip on the wheel.
• Slow down to protect against hydroplaning. Hydroplaning occurs when a vehicle is traveling fast in heavy rain conditions causing the vehicle’s tires to lose their grip on the road’s surface. This can make steering and braking difficult and can cause drivers to lose control.  If you do hydroplane, take your foot off the accelerator and avoid swerving.
• Keep your headlights on. Unless there is damage to your car that prevents you from driving with the flow of traffic, DO NOT turn your hazard lights on.
• Avoid any roadways that are covered with water. You have no idea how deep it is or what is in/under the water. If you must drive through standing water, proceed slowly. If your car stalls, call a tow truck rather than attempting to restart. Dirt, oil or other debris in the water could get into the engine and damage components.
• Do not use cruise control. Cruise control increases your vehicle’s chances of hydroplaning as you are unable to lift your foot off the accelerator with cruise control engaged.
• If you come to an intersection where the traffic light is out, treat the intersection as you would a four-way stop.

Your friends at Grieco Collision Center care about your safety and will do our best to make sure your domestic, foreign, or luxury car, or heavy-duty truck is in optimum condition to keep you and your family safe during Florida hurricane season and always. Are you concerned about your vehicle’s condition? Call us at 888-451-0538 or get in touch via our contact form today!

For those South Floridians who take great pride in their vehicles, few things are more annoying than a senseless dent. Whether caused by a careless person who slammed their car door or shopping cart into your car, hail, or even your own oversight, every time you see that dent, your anger renews.

Many people just live with these annoying reminders because they think that dent repair is too costly. Not anymore. Especially because this month when Grieco Collision Fort Lauderdale will give you 10% off your paintless dent repair service.

But first, you are probably wondering…

What the heck is Paintless Dent Repair?

Paintless Dent Repair or Paintless Dent Removal (PDR) is a fast-growing less-intrusive method for vehicle dent repair. Grieco’s expert technicians use state-of-the-art technology and specialized tools to slowly push and massage minor—and sometimes major—dents back into place. They approach the dent from the back of the panel using precision and patience. No need for paint. No damage to the vehicle’s factory finish.

What kind of damage can be repaired with PDR?

All sorts of damage can be repaired with PDR—many of them are prevalent right here in Fort Lauderdale. Commonly used for hail damage, door dings, creases and body line damage, PDR is equally effective on both aluminum and steel panels. As long as paint and metal are not stretched—as with some very sharp dents or creases—larger dents can also be repaired using this method. But in general the shallower the dent, the more likely PDR will be a suitable method of repair.

What are the benefits of PDR?

• Cost-effective – no need to purchase paint or replacement parts; you’re basically paying for labor.
• Boosts resale value—and your mood – New paint over a vehicle’s factory finish significantly reduces resale value. And you don’t have to look at that dent every day!
• Quick – Unlike traditional dent repair which requires a series of complex steps, PDR uses only one specialized process.
• Environmentally friendly – no need for bondo, primers, paint, sealers and other toxic materials.

This ingenious method invented in New York City at the International Motor Sports Show in February of 1960. Oskar Flaig, a technician for Mercedes, was responsible for fixing scratches and dents and any other damage the show cars incurred in the evening so the cars would look perfect the next day. Using a hammer handle to push out a small dent—so he could apply less filler before painting—Flaig found that the result looked perfect with no need for further work. So it began.

Ready to try Paintless Dent Repair?

Do you have a dent that’s driving you crazy? Thought it would be too expensive to fix? Contact Grieco Collision Center today at 888-451-0538 to receive 10% off your dent repair service.

Redemption: Please present offer at the time of write-up. Coupon cannot be combined with any other offer. Limit one per customer. See dealer for details.