Blog / Merillville GMC Dealer

Blog

All Merillville GMC Dealer Merrillville Buick Dealer GMC Trucks Schepel Buick GMC Service Merrillville Buick Service Schepel Buick GMC Merrillville Used Cars Merrillville GMC Service 2024 GMC Sierra 3500 HD Things to do near Merillville, IN 2022 GMC Terrain 2024 Buick Encore GX 2024 Buick Envista 2025 Buick Encore GX 2025 GMC Sierra HD
GMC Auto Service in Merrillville

Expert GMC Auto Service in Merrillville, Indiana

Let’s be honest. Our vehicles don’t take care of themselves. You can drive a GMC Sierra, Yukon, or even a Hummer EV SUV, but at some point, it’s going to need attention. Not because something’s wrong, but because that’s how machines work. Ignore that, and things get expensive fast. At Schepel Buick GMC, our service department is about keeping your vehicle working the way it was built to. No shortcuts. No guesswork. Just the right work at the right time. Why Routine Service Actually Matters A lot of people wait until something feels off before scheduling service. By then, you’re already behind. Regular maintenance like oil changes, brake checks, and tire rotations keeps small issues from turning into big ones. It also keeps your vehicle running efficiently, which matters if you’re driving every day or putting your truck to work. If you’re not sure where to start, sticking to a consistent oil change schedule and routine multi-point inspections is a solid baseline. It’s simple, and it works. GMC Oil Changes Done Right Oil changes are one of those things people tend to overlook. They shouldn’t. Your engine depends on clean oil to reduce wear and manage heat. Skip it, and you’re asking for problems. At Schepel Buick GMC, every GMC oil change service uses the right oil and OEM-approved filters for your specific vehicle. While it’s in the bay, technicians also check for early signs of wear or leaks. It’s not just a quick in-and-out. It’s a chance to catch issues before they cost you more time and money. More Than Just Oil Changes Oil is just the starting point. A properly maintained GMC needs attention across the board. That includes brake service and inspections, tire rotation and alignment services, and battery testing, especially as seasons change in Indiana. These aren’t optional add-ons. They’re part of keeping your vehicle reliable. If you’re driving a newer model or something more advanced like a Sierra EV or Hummer EV SUV, specialized service matters even more. These vehicles require the right tools and training, which is exactly what a certified GMC service center provides. Work Done by People Who Know GMC There’s a difference between general service and brand-specific service. The technicians at Schepel Buick GMC are trained specifically for GMC vehicles. They know what to look for, what tends to wear first, and how to fix it correctly the first time. That saves you from repeat visits, unnecessary repairs, and a lot of frustration. Keep Your GMC Ready for the Long Haul At the end of the day, maintenance is about one thing. Keeping your vehicle dependable. If you’re commuting, towing, or just trying to avoid unexpected problems, staying ahead on service makes a difference. For north Indiana drivers, Schepel Buick GMC offers everything from routine GMC maintenance services to more involved repairs, all in one place. Schedule Your GMC Service in Merrillville If your vehicle is due for service, don’t wait for a warning light to remind you. Schedule a service appointment online or visit Schepel Buick GMC for professional-grade care that keeps your GMC running the way it should.

2026 GMC Yukon XL

Discover the New 2026 GMC Yukon XL

There is a moment when you realize a standard SUV just is not enough. Not enough space, not enough presence, not enough capability. That is exactly where the 2026 GMC Yukon XL steps in. It does not try to compete with smaller SUVs. It replaces them entirely. Space, and Then Some More Space Let’s start with the obvious. The Yukon XL is enormous. Not “spacious for its class,” not “roomy,” but properly, gloriously big. You get seating for up to 8, and not the sort where the third row feels like a polite afterthought. Everyone has space. Actual space. The kind where knees are not part of a negotiation. Cargo capacity reaches up to 144.5 cu. ft., which is less “trunk” and more “mobile storage facility.” Weekend trip? Fine. Family vacation? Easy. Entire hardware store run? Still fine. Technology That Feels Like It Belongs Front and center sits a 16.8-inch display with Google built-in. It is large, sharp, and refreshingly intuitive. No digging through menus like you are trying to crack a code. Rear-seat entertainment keeps passengers occupied, which, if you have ever driven with bored passengers, is arguably one of the most important features here. Safety tech is present and accounted for too. Lane Keep Assist and Automatic Emergency Braking operate in the background, stepping in when needed rather than constantly reminding you they exist. Power That Matches the Size Now, here is where it gets interesting. Because something this big cannot afford to feel slow. 5.3L V8: 355 hp and 383 lbs. ft. of torque 6.2L V8: 420 hp and 460 lbs. ft. of torque Duramax® 3.0L Turbo-Diesel: 305 hp and 495 lbs. ft. of torque Each engine has its place. The 5.3L is steady and capable. The 6.2L feels properly strong, especially when merging or towing. The diesel is the long-haul specialist, delivering torque exactly where you need it. Paired with a 10-speed automatic and available 4WD, the Yukon XL does something slightly absurd. It makes something this large feel composed. Not small, never small, but controlled. Why It Stands Out in Merrillville Most SUVs try to balance everything. The Yukon XL does not bother. It leans fully into size, capability, and presence, then refines the experience so it never feels clumsy. It is not for everyone. And that is precisely why it works. If you need space, real towing ability, and something that feels substantial every time you drive it, this is the answer. Not a compromise. Not a halfway solution. The full thing. See It for Yourself in Merrillville The GMC Yukon XL is one of those vehicles that makes more sense the moment you stand next to it. Then even more sense once you drive it. If you are around Schepel Buick GMC take the time to see it in person. Walk around it. Climb into it. Drive it. Because reading about something big only tells you so much.

2026 GMC Sierra 3500

2026 GMC Sierra 3500: The Truck That Shows Up Ready for Work

Some trucks are bought for weekend projects and hardware-store runs. Others get purchased because your job, your schedule, and sometimes your entire crew depend on them starting every morning without excuses. Around Merrillville, IN, where workdays can start before sunrise and end long after traffic dies down, this heavy-duty pickup feels like a perfect blend of luxury and serious towing muscle. Heavy-Duty Muscle That Handles Real-World Loads Without Drama Underneath the bold sheet metal sits the kind of capability contractors, haulers, and business owners need. Available gas and Duramax® Turbo-Diesel engines deliver strong pulling power for trailers, equipment, or jobsite materials. Properly equipped towing capacity can reach up to about 36,000 lbs., which means fewer second trips and less time worrying about whether your truck can handle the load. You can choose between single rear wheel or dual rear wheel configurations depending on how serious the daily workload gets. That flexibility matters when it’s part of how you earn a living. Technology That Helps You Stay Organized on Long Workdays Step inside and the Sierra 3500 feels built for people who spend real hours behind the wheel. An available 13.4-inch central touchscreen makes it easier to handle navigation, calls, and job scheduling through wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ connectivity. Available Super Cruise™ adds hands-free highway capability on compatible routes, which can take the edge off long drives between job sites or supplier runs. Safety tech also earns its keep here. Forward collision alert, lane departure warning, and available surround-view cameras make maneuvering a long truck and trailer combo feel far less stressful in tight construction areas. Utility Features That Actually Save Time on the Job The Sierra’s MultiPro™ tailgate isn’t just a gimmick. It gives you multiple ways to load tools, step into the bed, or secure materials quickly without improvising. Strong LED lighting helps during early starts and late finishes, while available storage solutions inside the cabin keep paperwork, gear, and everyday essentials within reach. Higher trims like Denali introduce heated and ventilated seats, premium materials, and a quieter cabin. That extra comfort can make a noticeable difference after a long day working for the weekend. See the 2026 GMC Sierra 3500 at Schepel Buick GMC If your truck is part of how you get things done — not just something you drive on weekends — the 2026 GMC Sierra 3500 is worth seeing up close. Drivers near Merrillville, IN can explore how this heavy-duty pickup blends serious capability with everyday usability, helping turn demanding workdays into something more manageable behind the wheel.

2025 GMC Hummer EV Pickup

Introducing the 2025 GMC HUMMER EV Pickup

A rugged truck with a bold personality, the 2025 GMC HUMMER EV Pickup is born for adventures. Whether you opt for the standard powertrain or the available three-motor option, this electric supertruck can take you to the highest peaks. Introducing the 2025 GMC HUMMER EV Pickup The 2025 HUMMER EV Pickup represents the essence of supertruck fun. It is available in two trim levels that share most features but come with different powertrains. The base model is the 2X, although there is nothing basic about it. This trim level uses a dual-motor four-wheel drive setup that, together with the standard 20-module battery pack, delivers 570 horsepower and 7,400 pound-feet of torque. The 3X trim level boasts a trimotor four-wheel drive setup, with one front and two rear motors. It comes standard with the same 20-module battery as the 2X trim, but it can be customized with GMC's most advanced 24-module Ultium battery to provide a staggering 1,000 horsepower and 11,500 pound-feet of torque. Depending on the battery, it provides 318 to 367 miles of range per charge. Adventure-Ready Features While the 2025 HUMMER EV Pickup behaves beautifully on asphalt, it is designed for the open road. Both trim levels come well-equipped for adventures with heavy-duty suspensions, underbody protection, and a minimum ground clearance of 11.9 inches. It can also go through 28 to 32 inches of water, depending on the selected drive mode, meaning you can easily overcome any challenging situation. With 4-Wheel Steer and CrabWalk, you can easily align or sync the truck's wheels to reduce the turning radius for easier maneuverability or move diagonally to traverse tight trails. For extreme adventures, you can optimize this truck with the available Extreme Off-Road Package and underbody cameras. First-Class Comfort and Convenience This truck's interior is designed to keep five riders comfortable through the most rugged adventures. The front and rear seats offer exceptional back and lateral support, and all essential controls are placed for easy reach from the driver's seat. Removable Sky Panels open up the top, allowing you to enjoy an open-air experience. GMC's latest infotainment system is also standard on this truck and comes with a range of Google apps for added convenience. Ready to discover everything the 2025 HUMMER EV Pickup offers? Visit us at Schepel Buick GMC in Merrillville, IN, to take it for a test drive. We will be here to help with anything you need.

2025 GMC Sierra EV

Introducing the 2025 GMC Sierra EV

If you're looking for a full-size truck with luxury comfort and eco-friendly performance, the 2025 GMC Sierra EV can be your match. More powerful than its gas counterpart, incredibly rugged off the road, and packed with innovative features, it is a favorite among trucking enthusiasts. After its debut in 2024, the Sierra EV is back for the new model year and is more powerful than ever. An Extended Range battery joins the party, delivering exceptional performance and great range at a more affordable price. The Max Range battery delivers more exhilarating driving dynamics and a longer range, features that make it a better choice for road trips and off-roading. The 2025 Sierra EV also comes with a host of tech upgrades compared to the previous model year, including standard 5G connectivity for improved reception in rugged areas. This truck also boasts an attention-grabbing design that can be personalized with a spectrum of bold colors, including the exclusive Moonlight Matte. Strength Meets Innovation Whether you opt for the Extended Range battery or the available Max Range, the 2025 Sierra EV delivers impressive power. The base configuration has an output of 645 horsepower and 785 pound-feet of torque, which is more than enough for most towing and hauling needs. It can pull up to 10,500 pounds and drive up to 390 miles per charge. Innovative performance features, such as GMC's 4-Wheel Steer with CrabWalk, enhance maneuverability, making it easy to handle challenging driving situations. The 760-hp Max Range battery setup pairs with the same innovative features and also brings a range of 460 miles per charge. First-Class Comfort and Utility Stepping inside the 2025 Sierra EV reveals a luxurious cabin built with comfort in mind. Open-pore wood trims and leather-alternative seating surfaces pair with a minimalist dash, giving the cabin an upscale, airy feel. Both rows provide ample legroom and lots of amenities, including plentiful in-cabin storage. The nearly six-foot bed offers plenty of room for bulky items, and with the standard midgate, it can expand into the cabin to accommodate longer items. A front trunk brings additional storage for tools, charging cables, and other essentials. Beyond on-the-road utility, the Sierra EV can also become a backup generator for your home in the event of a blackout. Powerful, luxurious, and packed with innovative features, the 2025 Sierra EV is a truck you must try on the road. Schedule your test drive today at Schepel Buick GMC in Merrillville, IN.

Side profile of a 2024 GMC Acadia parked outside of a home.

Discover the 2024 GMC Acadia: Family SUV

If you're looking for a next-level family SUV that's got state-of-the-art technology, great safety features, and an excellent build that's designed to turn heads, the 2024 GMC Acadia is sure to delight you. With a 2.5L turbo engine that can help you climb every mountain and an ultra-modern interior, you and your family will enjoy every moment of the ride, and rest assured that no roads are off-limits. more Discover the 2024 GMC Acadia: Family SUV A Comprehensive Suite of Safety Features You and your family will enjoy a full suite of safety features that will allow you to sit back and enjoy every mile of the drive. Intuitive features like Blind Zone Steering Assist and Rear Park Assist are excellent for helping you navigate more congested streets and keep an extra pair of eyes around you at all times. You'll also find Front Pedestrian and Bicyclist Braking and Forward Collision Alert, which lets you know if you need to be aware of obstacles ahead of you and allows you enough time to correct the course. The vehicle can also stop for you as needed. Plus, these vehicles are equipped with state-of-the-art airbags in the front and rear of the ride, which can protect you in the event of a worst-case scenario. Fantastic Interior With Everything You Could Want Up to seven people can ride in absolute comfort with convenience features like multiple USB ports for quick phone charging and heated front seats. It also comes with speedy Wi-Fi, so you'll never have to worry about losing connection on the road, even when you're exploring the back roads. Plus, drivers will enjoy a seat that can be customized in eight ways, giving you a full personalized experience. Exceptional Performance and Build This vehicle is a fantastic option for your next great family vacation thanks to excellent features like four-wheel antilock brakes and an eight-speed transmission that allows you to adjust your driving experience to the terrain. Plus, you'll always remain in control with features like StabiliTrak and precise suspension, making driving in challenging weather easy. If you want an incredible family vehicle, it's time to discover this new model from GMC. It features top-notch safety features, a roomy and well-appointed interior, and an impressive build that will help you drive confidently, no matter where you roam. Stop by Schepel Buick GMC in Merrillville, IN, and take one for a test spin today.

a 2024 GMC Yukon XL driving through the mountains.

Discover the 2024 GMC Yukon XL: Extra Space and Comfort

Spacious, luxurious, and ready to accommodate up to nine passengers, the 2024 GMC Yukon XL offers strong performance, available off-roading capabilities, and first-class comfort features that everyone will love on long-distance journeys. more Discover the 2024 GMC Yukon XL: Extra Space and Comfort Strong Engine Performance This edition of the Yukon XL has three engines available, depending on the trim level, with the smallest one being a turbocharged 277-horsepower 3.0-liter diesel I6. Also generating 460 pound-feet of torque, this engine provides reliable strength and acceleration, though more output can be found in the next largest engine, a 355-horsepower 5.3-liter with 383 pound-feet of torque. The third engine, a 6.2-liter V8, takes power to the next level with its 420 horses and 460 pound-feet of torque. Versatility When Off-Roading When venturing down off-road trails or over slippery surfaces, this SUV's available four-wheel-drive system provides all the traction needed to do so confidently, and it's paired with an Autotrac single-speed transfer case in lower trim levels and a two-speed one in upper trims. Select models also come with an electronic-limited slip differential and other off-roading extras. First-Class Luxury and Comfort Offering extra legroom and cargo space over regular Yukon models, the Yukon XL comes standard with tri-zone climate control, power windows, rear air conditioning, a rear window defogger, power-adjustable seats, and two 60/40 split-folding rear seats. Select upper trims come standard with heating and ventilation functions for the front-row seats and heating for the second row, and many plush seating fabrics are available. A Stylish and Convenient Design The vehicle's design is stylish and offers unique nature-inspired paint color options like Pearl Beige Metallic, Frosted Pine Metallic, and Volcanic Red Tintcoat. Tackling rough weather conditions is made simple with the standard Rainsense automatic wipers, fog lamps, and heated power side mirrors, while the available LED perimeter lighting, hands-free liftgate, and power-retractable assist steps provide plenty of convenience. There's also an available panoramic power sunroof, and to enhance the vehicle's aerodynamics, optional upper and lower active aero shutters. Premium Technology Throughout This SUV's technology is also praiseworthy, with standard features that include a Wi-Fi hotspot, multiple power outlets for personal devices, and the GMC Premium Infotainment System. There's also an available 15-inch head-up display and plenty of standard driver-assist highlights. Come test-drive the 2024 Yukon XL and experience a new level of luxury by contacting us today at Schepel Buick GMC in Merrillville, IN.

Side profile of a 2024 GMC Hummer EV SUV.

Exploring the 2024 GMC HUMMER EV SUV: Ultimate Electric Off-Roader

The 2024 GMC HUMMER EV SUV offers the best of all worlds; it's an ultra-powerful machine capable of helping you easily explore the back roads, and it's eco-friendly with excellent modern amenities. This vehicle comes with a 19.2 kW capable onboard charging module and DC fast charging so you can jump in and hit the road. Plus, it has exceptional performance features that take you from the paved streets to the uncertain terrain with ease. more Exploring the 2024 GMC HUMMER EV SUV: The Ultimate Electric Off-Roader Exceptional Off-Road Capacity and Performance This vehicle is ready to take you on that next great off-road adventure. Its suite of smart features, like an Electronic 4-wheel Steering with CrabWalk and Adaptive Air Ride suspension, keeps you completely in control at all times, even when you're working your way through bumpier paths. There's also the built-in Drive Mode Selector, so you can opt for the type that's best for your journey and switch as needed along the way, and Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking which can step in if you're unable to and stop the vehicle fully and safely. No matter what the road brings, you can rest assured that this model can absolutely take it on. Comfortable and Modern Interior No matter whether you're taking a spin around the neighborhood or heading out on the next great adventure, you'll be riding in complete style in this vehicle thanks to amenities like a heated driver's seat that you can adjust twelve different ways for precision and personalized support. An air conditioning and filtration system keeps you at the ideal temperature, and the air inside the cabin is fully clean, no matter how dusty the terrain outside. Multiple USB ports ensure that everyone will always have a space to charge their phones as needed. An Ultra-Tough Exterior Build This vehicle was built to transition from city roads to unexplored territory. It has several intelligent features, such as LED headlights and tail lights, heated mirrors for an unobscured view of everything happening behind you, and Rainsense automatic windshield wipers that can adjust to the conditions and always give you a perfect view of what's happening ahead. If you're looking for a vehicle that can keep up with you and is ready to go the distance in an eco-friendly way, this new GMC model will suit your needs. Stop by Schepel Buick GMC in Merrillville, IN, and take one for a test drive today.

Infotainment center of a GMC Sierra

8 Features of the 2024 GMC Sierra 3500 HD

The 2024 GMC Sierra 3500 HD is a heavy-duty pickup that's perfect for the toughest jobs. Our Merrillville is exploring eight features of the Sierra 3500 that set it apart from the competition. more 8 Features of the 2024 GMC Sierra 3500 HD 1. 6.6L V8 Gas Engine The Sierra 3500 is a powerful pickup truck thanks to its 6.6L V8 gas engine and Allison 10-speed automatic transmission. This is the standard powertrain combo, offering 401 HP at 5200 rpm and 464 lb.-ft. of torque at 4000 rpm. 2. 6.6L Duramax Turbo-Diesel V8 Engine Some drivers have extreme towing needs that require a more intense engine like the 6.6L Duramax Turbo-Diesel V8. This available engine yields 470 HP at 2800 rpm and 975 lb.-ft. of torque at 1600 rpm. With this engine, you can reach a maximum towing capacity of up to 36,000 pounds. 3. GMC MultiPro Tailgate Hauling, loading, and unloading cargo is easier than ever with the available MultiPro tailgate. The GMC MultiPro tailgate can be positioned in six different ways to meet a variety of cargo needs. This tailgate comes standard on the SLE and all higher trims. 4. Infotainment System The 2024 Sierra 3500 comes with a 7-inch color Infortinament system that provides various entertainment and vehicle information resources. This includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, Bluetooth audio streaming, and SiriusXM radio. 5. Hitch Guidance The Hitch Guidance feature is the perfect tool to streamline your towing process. Hitch Guidance gives you a digital guideline for attaching your trailer to your hitch quickly and correctly. This function uses a rear vision camera to give you a detailed view of your hitch at all times, even when driving! 6. Under-Seat Storage The Sierra 3500's front seat has built-in storage beneath the seat cushions, giving you a hidden space for extra cargo. Just lift up the 40/20/40 split bench to reveal a small cargo area perfect for tools, first aid kits, clothing, or other work and travel essentials. 7. Sierra HD Pro Safety All trucks in the 2024 Sierra lineup come with an exclusive safety package, Sierra HD Pro Safety. This package contains a variety of assistive driving functions that can reduce your risk of accidents. Some of the functions in the Sierra HD Pro Safety package include Lane Departure Warning, Following Distance Indicator, and Forward Collision Alert. Contact Schepel Buick GMC in Merrillville, IN, to find out more about the new Sierra lineup.

Two men speaking over a car deal.

Navigating Car Financing Options at Your GMC Dealership

Financing your new GMC enables you to get the vehicle you want now rather than waiting and saving the purchase price. When you decide to finance, you have several different options, including banks, credit unions, and your dealer. As your GMC dealer, we want to tell you about some of the reasons why choosing us for your car financing is the right choice to make. more Benefits of Car Financing Through Your GMC Dealer Easier Process Applying for a bank loan requires that you do all the work yourself, from calculating what you can afford to work out potential interest changes. They don't offer any assistance, and this can make your application more of a hassle than it should be. Our process is different. We have several helpful tools available on our website to help you. You can quickly and easily calculate your potential installments and interest payments. Pool of Lenders When you apply to a bank for finance, you gather your information, complete your application, submit it, and then you wait. If the bank refuses your loan, you must start the process again at another bank. This can become time-consuming and even disheartening, as banks can be less than transparent in their approval process. We work with a pool of lenders, offering you numerous potential loan options. Our lenders are all in Indiana, and they have expert knowledge of the local market and conditions. Once you complete our online application, the information will be reviewed by one of our finance team and forwarded to all our lenders. No wasted shoe leather traveling from provider to provider, and you can expect a response usually within the same day you apply. Options for Everyone Banks are very conservative and must follow specific policies and procedures to approve a​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ loan. Generally, you'll get a loan if you have perfect credit but are very unlikely to get a loan if you have average or low credit. We have a different view. If you can pay the installments, you should get approved for a loan. Our lenders understand that not everyone has perfect credit, and they can offer options for any level of credit, from excellent to credit that needs to be improved. In addition, getting a car loan will help to increase your credit score as you consistently meet your payments. These are just some of the ways we make financing your new car simpler and easier. Contact our finance department today at Schepel Buick GMC in Merrillville, IN.

A nice side profile of the passenger side front wheel and fender area.

Choosing the Right Tires for Your Buick at the Dealership

It can be easy to overlook the tires unless they're worn or flat, but tire damage comes in many forms. Damaged tires are responsible for numerous accidents in the US, as they increase stopping distance and reduce traction. As your Buick dealer, we want to tell you some signs that you need to visit us for new tires. more Signs You Need New Tires From Your Buick Dealer Cupped Tires Cupping is a strange wear pattern that looks like sections of the edges of the tire tread have been scooped out with an ice cream scoop. This damage is caused by an alignment or suspension issue. The alignment is the angle of the tires to the ground. Depending on your model, your tires could be perpendicular to the surface or angled inward or outward when viewed from straight ahead or from above. Alignment changes over time due to contact with the road surface, worn shocks or struts, or bumping the curb or any solid object. We can prevent this problem by connecting your wheels to our computerized alignment machine. We'll also check your tires and replace any that are severely worn. Over or Under-Inflated Tires The correct tire pressure for your tires is listed in your car manual and is also displayed on a plate or sticker on the inside door jamb of the front passenger side door. Underinflated tires sag, exposing more vulnerable sections of the sidewall to friction with the ground and increasing the chance of a puncture. Overinflated tires, in contrast, are more likely to suffer blowouts. When you're driving, the air inside your tires heats up due to surface friction. This increases internal tire pressure, which is already slightly weakened by stretching due to the excessive amount of air inside it. Our technicians can correct either issue in minutes, and we'll also check your tires to ensure they're still safe to drive on. Cracked Tires Your tires are made from high-quality rubber, and they're reinforced by steel and polymer bands in sections like the tread. Despite their superior construction, rubber will naturally lose elasticity over time, and reduced elasticity leads to cracks. When your tires heat up as you drive, the cracks will gradually widen and deepen. Cracks that extend far enough into the tire surface will compromise the tire, and it will leak or blow out. If you spot cracks in your tires, visit us so our experts can examine them and advise you. Driving on worn or damaged tires is dangerous. Visit us today at Schepel Buick GMC in Merrillville, IN.

A mechanic removing that car battery out of the vehicle.

Determining When Your GMC Needs a New Car Battery

The average lifespan of a car battery is three to five years, but this can be reduced due to extreme weather conditions or undiagnosed issues in the engine, like a failing alternator. As your GMC dealer, we'd like you to know some of the signs that your battery is in trouble and you need to visit us for a new car battery. more Signs You Need a New Car Battery From Your GMC Dealer Dim Headlights Dim headlights are often one of the first signs that your headlight bulbs need replacement. They could also indicate that your battery is weakening. When your engine is switched off, the battery uses its reserves to power your vehicle's systems. If the battery fails, it might not have enough stored power to supply all the systems sufficiently. You can perform a test to check your battery. Note the brightness of your headlights, then start your engine and check the brightness again. If the headlights don't look brighter, your bulbs probably need replacement. If the lights are much brighter, your battery is failing. We'll connect your battery to our battery tester to check it and replace the battery if it's wearing out. Rotten Egg Smell If you smell the stench of rotten eggs wafting into your cabin, your battery could be failing. This foul smell is due to hydrogen sulfide, a corrosive and toxic chemical that forms as a battery weakens. Chemical reactions inside the battery enable it to store electricity as chemical energy. One of these chemicals, sulfuric acid, gradually breaks down and releases hydrogen as part of the breakdown process. The hydrogen molecules will escape the battery and mix with sulfur in your engine to form hydrogen sulfide. This new chemical will start to corrode the battery terminals and other nearby metal components. Once a battery starts to release hydrogen, it's already in decline. The battery can't be repaired, but we'll install a new one to fix this problem. Battery Warning Light This warning light illuminates if sensors in your engine detect any issues in the electrical system. These sensors connect to each component in the electrical system and closely monitor their connected component for any problems. They're very sensitive, and can easily identify the smallest changes in a component and give you sufficient warning time to repair it before it fails. The battery can trigger this warning light as its electrical output drops. A healthy battery supplies approximately 13.5 volts. As it weakens, this output falls and the light will illuminate if the output drops to 12.5 volts or less. This is a sign that the battery can't supply all your vehicle's electricity demands. We'll test your battery to confirm this and will replace it for you. A battery will usually always provide some warning that it's failing. Visit us today at Schepel Buick GMC in Merrillville, IN.

Contact Us

Fill out this form below and we'll contact you shortly
*Required Fields