Grieco Auto Group cares about our men in blue. That’s why, to honor their hard work in our community, the Grieco Collision Center pitched in to restore the Johnston Police Department Response Van. Now our police department’s detectives are fighting crime in style with a refurbished utility van that’s as good as new.

Grieco Collision Center donated approximately $10,000 in resources to strip down the van’s exterior, along with some of its interior, and provide a complete repaint of the vehicle in a matte black finish. With the restoration complete, the department has already put the van to use. Find out more about this project to support the Johnston Police Department here.

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!

Do the upcoming holidays have you feeling an increased desire to volunteer and help people in need? Often we find counting our blessings—as many do this time of year—increases the spirit of generosity and giving. If you are looking for New England volunteer opportunities or wondering where to donate clothing, food, time, or money, we’ve compiled some resources to help give back in your New England community.

Zoo New England The Zoo New England team relies strongly on the help of volunteers to support many efforts including: events, animal care assistance, and maintenance of exhibits. If this piques your interest, you can submit an online application, and the volunteer department will contact you for an interview. There are two different seasons that offer volunteer opportunities:

Summer (April through September) Deadline for Applications: February 15

Winter (September through February) Deadline for Applications: July 15

Volunteer applicants should have a positive attitude and adhere to Zoo New England policies. Additionally applicants must attend and complete orientation and an Education Interpretation class.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rhode Island Looking to donate gently used clothing and/or household goods? It’s easy to schedule a free pickup, and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rhode Island uses your tax-deductible donations to generate funding for local mentorship programs and other services to support their mission. They resell donations to the thrift store Savers and the proceeds help youth in your community reach their fullest potential. Prefer to drop your donations off? You can find where to donate in locations near you.

Acceptable items: Clothing, accessories, housewares, small appliances, toys, media

Unacceptable items: Weapons, large appliances, construction materials, mattresses and box springs, sofas, automotive parts

Planet Aid Rhode Island Donation Center accepts clothing, accessories, shoes, baby items, curtains, draperies, household items, glassware, and bedding. Located at One Mile Corner, 533 Broadway, Newport, RI 02840, you can contact them at 888-893-0648 or email to schedule a convenient pickup from your home or business: curbside@planetaid.org

The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts Eliminating hunger in New England is the goal of The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts, and volunteer work is a crucial component to achieving that mission. The Food Bank relies on volunteers in many areas including warehouse positions, program and office support, and special events. Learn more about the numerous volunteer opportunities today and help the Food Bank work to ensure that everyone has access to nutritious food.

Donation Town Perhaps the most helpful resource for donating clothing and other household goods, Donation Town is an online directory of charities that offer donation pick up service. Clean out your clutter while supporting charitable causes, getting a tax break, and helping the environment by keeping your items out of landfills. Let Donation Town help you find the best home for your non-cash donations.  

For more information please feel free to contact us.

“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 855-570-2601 or schedule an appointment!

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!

Get the Most from Your Summer RV Road Trip

As the days grow longer and the kids get bored and antsy, many New Englanders dream of hopping in an RV and taking a road trip across the country. Whether your family wants to visit the Grand Canyon or Mickey Mouse, a summer RV trip will definitely provide lifelong memories.

But before you hit the open road with or without kiddos in tow, here are a few suggestions to make sure your summer trip is filled with the stuff of your dreams and not nightmares.

1. Plan Your Route: How do you want to get where you’re going? Do you want to get there the quickest way possible? Do you want to stop and see all the sites along the way? Do you want to take the scenic route and avoid tolls or hit the expressway and set the cruise control. Your answers will help you decide the best route for your specific summer road trip.
2. Budget: What’s your vacation budget? While traveling via RV can save you from costly hotel rooms, you need to plan for the costs of campgrounds or RV parks and make reservations if necessary. Additionally, filling the gas tank on an RV costs significantly more than a car.
3. Food: Do you plan to stop at restaurants along the way or eat most of your meals in the RV? It can save you a tremendous amount of money to grocery shop before your trip begins and pack the vehicle with plenty of food, drinks, and snacks. Then you can splurge on meals in your favorite destinations.
4. Create a timeline: How far do you plan to drive every day? What roadside attractions (if any) do you want to stop and see? How long do you plan to spend at these attractions? And if there are none, where can you stop to stretch your legs? Remember, summer travel means highways are more congested and you could find yourself sitting for long periods of time.
5. RV Insurance: Especially on a long trip, when you’ll be traveling with lots of your belongings, you’ll want to be sure that everything is protected just in case. Check with your current auto insurance provider to see if they can add an RV to your policy. Or, if you’re renting, the rental agency can certainly help.
6. Know Power Usage: While at home your appliances can run all at once, an RV doesn’t work the same. Know how many amps each appliance uses to keep your RV running and your family safe.
7. Manage RV Weight: Find out the legal weight of your RV and once packed, weigh your RV at a commercial truck weigh station. If it doesn’t meet the limit, unload unnecessary things or pare down until you meet the limit. One way to lighten the load is planning to get water and fuel at each stop rather than storing it.
8. Make sure your RV is well maintained. Check tire tread 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. Check engine fluid levels, lighting, and mirrors to ensure everything is or can perform optimally.
9. Secure Your Belongings: If your kitchen items are loose, a bump or turn could make for a big mess. Use bungee cords, cabinet locks or even rubber bands to secure cabinets.
10. Before you set out, check weather conditions for the days and places you plan to travel. Make any revisions you need to in order to keep your family safe!

Your friends at Grieco Collision Center hope you have an amazing summer vacation and are available for all your automotive and RV service needs. Call us at 855-570-2601 or get in touch via our contact form to meet all of your RV maintenance needs.

Snow and ice can make transportation treacherous during winter in Rhode Island. Pay attention, slow down, keep an eye on the weather and winterize your car before heading out in quickly changing conditions.

1. Install Winter Tires. Before extreme weather arrives, install snow tires. The rubber compounds in non-winter tires can harden and inhibit the tire’s ability to grip the road. Winter tires are engineered using special compounds to resist this hardening and provide better traction. Come in now for 10% off your winter tires.

2. Wipers. Check your wiper condition—and consider installing special winterized wiper blades. Make sure your windshield washer fluid is full. You don’t want to make bad conditions worse with limited visibility. Keep a few extra containers of washer fluid in your trunk. It goes fast when cars are spraying salty slush all over.

3. Fill ‘er Up. Keeping your gas tank above half full will prevent fuel line freeze ups. Additionally, if you’re stuck or stranded, your engine is your only hope to stay warm until you can back on the road.

4. Safety First. Pack a winter emergency kit to keep in your vehicle should you ever find yourself stranded. Some ideas include: flares, phone charger, blanket, jumper cables, first aid kit, matches, blankets, gloves, flashlight, batteries, non-perishable food and water.

5. Preventative Maintenance. One of the most important measures to winterizing your car is just a regular service check-up. Have your service professional check battery and charging system, belts, hoses, spark plugs, anti-freeze, heating and cooling system, and fluids.

6. Tire Pressure. Temperature changes can cause gain or loss of PSI. Make sure that your tires are filled to appropriate pressure for adequate performance and traction.

7. Prevent Salt Damage: Wash your vehicle every 10 days or less or when the temperature reaches 40 degrees or more.
– After washing, open and close doors and trunk several times to prevent locks from freezing.
– Wash cars during the day to allow it to completely dry before temperatures drop at night.
– Avoid driving through deep snow that can get packed into the undercarriage causing drivability problems and contributing to corrosion.
– Wash the underside of your car thoroughly and often during winter months Avoid driving through puddles of standing water where road salt collects
– Wax your vehicle before winter and at least once every six months to maintain a strong protective coating.

8. Use Common Sense. This is the most important step to keep yourself and your vehicle safe in winter driving conditions. Clean all windows and mirrors of snow and ice. Slow down. Allow extra time. Don’t follow too closely. And if the road conditions appear dangerous, reschedule your appointments and stay home. Your life isn’t worth the risk.

If you should find yourself in a slippery situation, don’t panic! Take your time, and if conditions dictate, get off the road. Check your local weather report often. And if your car should suffer any damage, the professional body work team here at Grieco Collision RI is ready to assist you and get you back on the road as quickly as possible. We’re experienced in all facets of auto body work, body damage repair, collision repair, paint job, corrective paint jobs, paintless dent repair and more. Give us a call today at 401-231-1118