Car Maintenance You Should DIY

August 10, 2022 · 2 min read

Rick Weaver GMC often suggests visiting the dealership for GMC service. After all, cars are far more complex than they used to be, and we want to ensure that you and your vehicle get the best. However, there are some essential service tasks you can and should take care of at home between appointments.

At-Home Vehicle Service Tasks

While some service tasks are best left up to the professionals, there are a few simple maintenance tasks that you can DIY to save time and money, including some of the following.

Check Your Oil

Checking your oil can alert you when it’s time for a change (if it’s dark, come in for an oil change). If it’s chronically low, that can signal an oil leak or that your engine is burning oil.

Replace Wiper Blades and Fluid

Our windshield wipers keep us safe by maximizing visibility. When the blades no longer clear away rain or debris effectively, it may be time for a new set. Keep windshield washer fluid topped off, too, switching to a cold-weather formulation in the winter.

Keep It Clean

You’ll want to keep your vehicle clean for more than just cosmetic purposes. Over time, the road's dirt and debris can cause the paint and underlying metal to corrode. By washing your vehicle regularly, you can help to keep it in the best possible shape for as long as possible.

Fill Your Tires

Did you know that properly inflating your tires can boost fuel economy by more than 3%? It’s a good idea to check your tire pressure at least every 30 days or before taking a big trip, to ensure they’re correctly inflating and working right. Taking care of simple vehicle service tasks at home can help you save money and protect your vehicle long-term. And for those service tasks requiring little expertise, Rick Weaver GMC has you covered. Order GMC parts and schedule expert GMC service at our dealership today.

Oct 05, 2026

Top Performance Features of the 2027 GMC Acadia

The 2027 GMC Acadia is an SUV built for any situation, whether you’re working on your next project or heading out on the trail. Its sophisticated powertrain, versatile traction and handling features, and capable trailering performance give it the edge over other off-roading SUVs. Before you come in for your test drive at Rick Weaver GMC, see why this SUV holds top marks for performance-minded drivers. Engine Output Every 2027 GMC Acadia comes equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine that’s fit for the road ahead. This machine generates 328 horsepower and 326 lb-ft of torque, giving you all the power you need for both urban and off-road environments. All-wheel drive is available on all trims, transferring that engine power equally across the wheels for better stability. Durable Handling No matter the road conditions, the 2027 GMC Acadia gives you its all. The available Traction Select system lets you automatically switch between multiple distinct driving modes to improve traction and grip in select circumstances. The standard Normal mode can change to Sport, Snow/Ice, Off-Road, AWD (if installed), and Tow/Haul. The GMC Acadia AT4 adds a trim exclusive Terrain Mode to help you tackle rough roads. Strong Towing You can hook up small or medium-sized trailers to the 2027 GMC Acadia without worry. This model is rated for up to 5,000 lbs of towing potential when equipped with the standard Trailering Package. Combine that with the maximum interior cargo volume of 97.5 cubic feet, and you can fit just about everything you need for your next road trip. Test-Drive the 2027 GMC Acadia in Erie, PA Reading about the power of the 2027 GMC Acadia is one thing; it’s another to feel its performance firsthand. Contact Rick Weaver GMC today to schedule a test drive.

Sep 21, 2026

Should You Check Your GMC Battery Before Winter?

While our winters are certainly beautiful, they can be hard on your vehicle. We can help you prep your vehicle with GMC service. Rick Weaver GMC shares why you need to check your battery before the winter season starts. How Hard is Winter on Your Battery? Winter's cold temperatures are one of the biggest strains on your battery. Chemical reactions are slowed down, so batteries can’t always generate an electrical current. As a battery becomes discharged, the electrolyte becomes more water-like and its freezing point rises, increasing the risk of freeze damage during extremely cold temperatures. This can lead to swelling or even a cracked case. How Else is Your Car Affected? When the temperature drops, your engine oil thickens. Thick oil can’t move freely, so it can’t lubricate and protect your engine the way it needs to. Plus, it forces your engine to work harder, which diminishes your performance and fuel efficiency. That also puts an added strain on your battery and starter, so if your battery is already weak, your vehicle may not even start. Should I Check My Battery? Batteries already struggle so much during the winter, so you certainly don’t want to start with a weak battery. Since summer temps lead to fluid evaporation, it’s not uncommon to go into winter with a weak battery either. We recommend bringing your car to our GMC service center to have your battery tested. We can mimic the strains of winter, so we can determine if your battery is up to the challenge. We’ll also complete a visual inspection to check for corrosion, leaks, or other issues. Schedule GMC Service in Erie, PA Battery inspections are quick and convenient at our service center. We can easily see if your vehicle is prepared for winter. Visit Rick Weaver GMC to get started today!

Sep 16, 2026

The Best Fall Road Trips near Erie, PA

The fall season is quickly approaching. It’s one of the best times of the year to explore our area and take in all the fall colors and splendors. We’re sharing the best fall road trips near us at Rick Weaver GMC. Presque Isle State Park The fall foliage season in Pennsylvania is one of the longest in the world, sometimes even lasting six weeks or longer. One of the best places to visit during the season is Presque Isle State Park. It has a paved waterfront trail, as well as miles of forested hiking trails, so you can enjoy the beauty by foot or by bike. For the best views, we recommend going to the Presque Isle Lighthouse to take in the sights from the top of the tower. The Great Lakes Seaway Trail With views along the Lake Erie shoreline, you can appreciate the colors of the trees and their reflections on the Great Lakes Seaway Trail. As an added perk, it runs through Lake Erie Wine Country, so there are plenty of wineries to stop for a glass along the way. The sights, sounds, smells, and tastes provide a truly immersive fall experience. Asbury Woods Just south of Erie, PA, the Asbury Woods provides 234 acres of stunning forestry. There are plenty of accessible trails, including the Boardwalk Trail, which everyone can enjoy. If you want a little bit more of an adventure, try out the rugged Greenway Trail, which leads to Walnut Creek and Big Maple Run, as well as the beloved Grandmother Tree. Schedule GMC Service in Erie, PA Before you set out on your fall adventures, you want to make sure that your vehicle is prepared with GMC service. We can get your vehicle ready in no time. Visit Rick Weaver GMC for service today!