Summer Heat & Your Vehicle: Why Hot Weather Causes More Breakdowns Than You Think

When shopping for a new Chevy truck or SUV, you'll often be asked to choose all-wheel drive (AWD) and 4-wheel driver (4WD), but what’s the difference? Understanding the difference between AWD and 4WD will help you make a smarter buying decision, whether you're navigating snowy Ohio winters or heading off the beaten path. Both systems improve traction, but they work differently and serve different purposes. Let's break it down in plain language so you can figure out which one makes the most sense for how you actually drive. What Is All-Wheel Drive on a Chevrolet? Chevrolet AWD is a system that automatically sends power to all 4 wheels when the vehicle detects a loss of traction. You don't have to do anything—the system manages it for you on the spot.  All-wheel drive is an option for several Chevy SUVs, including the family-friendly Equinox, the rugged Blazer, the Traverse with its Best-in-Class 98 cu. ft. of cargo space, and the full-size family haulers, the Tahoe and Suburban. It's designed for everyday driving in light snow, rain, and slippery road conditions. Because it operates continuously without driver input, it's a great fit for people who want added all-weather confidence without thinking about it. What Is 4-Wheel Drive on a Chevrolet? 4WD—sometimes referred to as 4x4—is a more robust system, typically found on Chevy trucks and truck-based SUVs like the Silverado, Colorado, and Tahoe. Unlike AWD, traditional 4WD systems require the driver to engage the system manually with a lever, button, or rotary dial. This gives off-road enthusiasts specifically more control on rocky and other challenging terrains.  Most current Chevy models use a system called Autotrac®, which allows drivers to select from modes like 2-High which is mostly rear-wheel drive, Auto for everyday use, 4-High which engages in slippery conditions, and 4-Low modes depending on conditions. The 4-Low setting is particularly useful for demanding off-road terrain, steep inclines, or heavy towing situations where you need maximum torque at low speeds. Key Differences Between AWD and 4WD The main distinction comes down to use case. Chevrolet AWD vs. 4WD isn't really a competition—they're built for different scenarios. AWD is ideal if you mostly drive on paved roads in all seasons and want seamless traction management. It adds minimal driver effort and pairs well with commuter-friendly SUVs. On the other hand, 4WD shines when you're towing heavy loads, driving on unpaved trails, or dealing with deep snow and mud where you need the driver to control how power is distributed. It's also worth noting that AWD typically doesn't have a low-range gear, which limits it in the most demanding off-road scenarios. If serious capability is a priority, 4WD gives you that extra layer of control. Which Chevy Models Offer AWD or 4WD? Chevy offers both systems across its lineup, so there's likely a vehicle that matches your needs. Models like the Equinox, Blazer, and Traverse offer available AWD for drivers who want everyday capability. The Tahoe and Suburban offer both AWD and 4WD options depending on the configuration. For truck buyers, the Silverado 1500, Silverado HD, and Colorado are available with 4WD and offer multiple drive modes suited for work and off-road use. If you're comparing Chevrolet AWD vs. 4WD specifically for towing or trail use, a Silverado or Colorado with 4WD is worth a closer look. Finding the Right Setup for Akron, OH Drivers For drivers in Akron, Ohio, seasonal weather plays a real role in choosing between these systems. Wet springs, icy winters, and occasional snowy roads make AWD a practical choice for most daily drivers. But if you use your vehicle for hauling, towing, or weekend adventures off-road, 4WD gives you the added muscle to handle tougher conditions. The good news is that Chevy's current lineup covers both needs well, with a range of SUVs and trucks that deliver dependable traction no matter what the season brings. Our team at VanDevere Chevrolet is equipped to show you through all your options for your daily life in Akron, Ohio, from your snowy commutes to your trailblazing explorations.

If you've ever wished you could check your vehicle from the comfort of your living room or wherever you are in Akron, Ohio, the MyChevrolet app could be exactly what you're looking for. Here are the Chevrolet connected services explained simply: this app turns your smartphone into a remote command center for your vehicle, giving you more control wherever you are. What Is the MyChevrolet App? The MyChevrolet app is a free app available for both iOS and Android devices. It connects directly to your eligible Chevrolet vehicle through OnStar technology, allowing you to monitor and manage your car from virtually anywhere. Remote Access and Vehicle Commands One of the most popular features of the MyChevrolet app is the ability to remotely lock or unlock your doors, start your engine, and even activate your horn and lights to find your vehicle in a crowded parking lot. You can warm up your car on a cold morning or cool it down before getting in on a hot afternoon. Vehicle Health and Diagnostics The app also gives you access to important vehicle health information, including diagnostic alerts, oil life status, and tire pressure readings. If your vehicle detects an issue, you'll receive a notification directly through the app, so you're never caught off guard by an unexpected warning light. This kind of visibility helps you stay on top of maintenance before small concerns become bigger problems. Navigation and Trip Planning The MyChevrolet app also supports in-vehicle navigation on compatible models. You can search for destinations on your phone and then send them directly to your vehicle's navigation system. This helps streamline your travel experience and keeps your focus on the road once you're driving. Additional MyChevrolet App Features Additionally, the app allows you to schedule Chevrolet Certified Service appointments, view your GM Rewards points balance, and access your vehicle's owner's manual digitally. Visit VanDevere Chevrolet to Learn More Chevrolet's connected services are best experienced firsthand. So, if you already own a Chevy or you're considering buying or leasing a new one, the team at VanDevere Chevrolet is here to help you get the most out of your vehicle's technology. Stop by to explore the current Chevrolet lineup and discover how connected services can work for you.

Handing over the keys to a new driver is a milestone moment - and a nerve-wracking one for most parents. If you're looking at vehicles with built-in safety features for your teen in Akron, Ohio, Chevy Teen Driver Technology is one of the best tools available on the market today. It gives parents oversight while helping young drivers build better habits behind the wheel. What Chevy Teen Driver Technology Does Chevy Teen Driver Technology is a system built directly into compatible Chevrolet vehicles that lets parents set parameters for how the vehicle is operated. Once activated through a PIN-protected menu, it can do things like mute the audio until front-seat occupants buckle up, limit the vehicle's top speed, and trigger audible alerts when certain thresholds are reached. Parents can also set a maximum volume level for the audio system to limit distractions. The In-Vehicle Report Card Feature The Report Card feature allows parents to review data that shows how the vehicle was operated, including if any safety alerts were triggered, if the driver went over the allowed top speed, and how far the vehicle traveled. It gives parents a clear picture of their teen's driving behavior without having to rely solely on conversation. This can be a starting point for honest conversations about safe driving. It keeps the focus on the data rather than assumptions, which tends to go over better with teenagers. Which Chevy Models Include This Feature Several current Chevrolet models are compatible with Chevy Teen Driver Technology, including popular options like the Equinox, Blazer, Traverse, Tahoe, Suburban, Silverado, and Colorado. That range means families have flexibility when it comes to size, budget, and style. Whether you're looking for a compact SUV or a full-size truck, there's likely a Chevy that fits both your family's needs and includes this helpful safety system. How It Helps New Drivers Build Better Habits Beyond the oversight it gives parents, Chevy Teen Driver Technology also works as a gentle coaching tool for the teen themselves. When the system sounds an alert - for speeding, for example - it creates an immediate feedback loop. Over time, that kind of consistent feedback can help reinforce good habits that stick. New drivers often don't realize how quickly small distractions or speed can add up to risky situations. Having the vehicle itself respond in real time makes the consequences more real than any lecture. Visit VanDevere Chevrolet to Learn More If you're a parent weighing your options for a safe first vehicle, you should check out ones equipped with Chevy Teen Driver Technology. It pairs parental oversight with features that encourage responsible driving - all without turning the car into a surveillance device. Stop by VanDevere Chevrolet to explore the Chevy lineup and find the right fit for your family.