Blog

Located in the heart of San Joaquin Valley, in Tulare County, the city of Porterville, CA, is known as a gateway to some of the most beautiful nature reserves in the state, including Kings Canyon National Park, Sequoia National Forest, and Giant Sequoia National Monument. If you are visiting the city and are looking for the best places to stay, these are some excellent hotels you should consider. more 1. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Porterville Welcoming guests with free high-speed Wi-Fi, complimentary hot breakfast, and a fully equipped fitness center, the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Porterville hotel is one of the best accommodation options in the city. Located right off Highway 190 and less than two miles south of the downtown area, this place is a perfect spot for those planning to visit the national forests, hot springs, and parks that the region has to offer. Whether you are traveling alone, with a group of friends, or with your family, this Holiday Inn Express hotel is an excellent spot to unwind, relax, and recharge your batteries to explore the area. Each of the property's spacious guest rooms features a 32” flat-screen TV, as well as triple-sheeted beds and black-out shades. At the end of the day, make sure to check out the hotel's outdoor pool, which is open between 6 am and 10 pm. 2. Best Western Porterville Inn Located right beside the Holiday Inn Express & Suites, this Best Western property is another excellent place to stay while visiting Porterville and its beautiful surroundings. This hotel offers free wireless internet connection in all public areas, as well as a complimentary hot breakfast with fruits, eggs, juice, coffee, yogurt, and more. This property complies with Best Western's “Because We Care” program, an industry-leading initiative for best practices in cleaning and sanitizing. Getting from the Porterville downtown area to the Best Western Porterville Inn takes a little over five minutes by car, heading south along Jaye Street. Some additional facilities you and your family can enjoy in this property include a seasonal outdoor pool, a 24-hour front desk, a guest laundry, and free parking. The hotel also features large conference facilities and meeting rooms, as well as a fully-equipped fitness area. 3. Americas Best Value Inn Porterville Featuring a 24-hour reception, free Wi-Fi throughout the property, vending machines, and luggage storage, Americas Best Value Inn is a great and affordable option to stay in downtown Porterville. This hotel is located just half a mile from the main street, making it easy to reach the city center's attractions and restaurants on foot or by car. Additional facilities include flat-screen cable TVs in every room, work desks, as well as a guest laundry. Are you ready to visit Porterville and stay at one of these great properties? Before you hit the road, stop by Merle Stone Chevrolet. We have an extensive inventory of new and used vehicles for you to go on exciting road trips and explore the best destinations in California and beyond.

Your transmission is the hardest-wearing part of your engine. It takes the raw power of your engine and transfers it to your wheels in a controlled way. This control is regulated by your gears. If your engine's power wasn't regulated, it would tear itself apart. The transmission is a very hardy component, but it contains hundreds of parts. Any of these components can fail, and you will need a transmission repair. Our dealer in Porterville, CA can repair it for you. Noises in Neutral You can run a simple test if you suspect you may have a transmission problem. All you need to do is to switch on your engine and shift into neutral. A transmission that is working normally won't make any sound. If you hear bumping, grinding, or clunking noises you have a transmission problem. These odd noises may just mean that your transmission fluid needs to be topped up. They might also mean that there is a loose bearing or damage to the gear teeth. To be safe, call our service department and our technicians will examine your transmission. more Burning Transmission Fluid Transmission fluid fills your transmission and it acts to lubricate the components and reduce friction. Your transmission is filled with hundreds of fast-moving parts, and many of these parts depend on friction to work correctly. The fluid also provides the hydraulic power to allow your gears to shift easily. As the fluid flows through the transmission, it accumulates clutch debris and other detritus. This debris thickens and slows down the fluid, and it becomes more susceptible to overheating. As the fluid ages, it also gradually loses its viscosity and heat-reduction properties. Old transmission fluid can start to burn in the heat of the transmission, and once the fluid has burnt it loses its ability to provide hydraulic power for your gears. If you smell something similar to burning rubber, your transmission fluid is the most likely cause. Transmission fluid should be changed at regular intervals according to your car's service schedule. Leaking Fluid No one likes to find a pool of fluid under the car, especially if it's leaking from the transmission. New transmission fluid is bright red, but through working in the engine it will turn a darker red due to contaminants. If the fluid continues to leak, it will rapidly increase the temperature in your transmission. A lack of fluid will also make gear shifts noisier and rougher. If you have a fluid leak, you should call our service department right away. Our technicians can trace the leak and repair it. Repairing a leak doesn't have to be an expensive or complex job, but it should be undertaken ASAP to prevent further damage. Early diagnosis and repair of a transmission problem can save you a lot of time and money. If your transmission is showing signs of wear, call the experts right away at Merle Stone Chevrolet.

The Chevrolet Spark has had a fan following ever since its much-anticipated 2012 debut. This commuter car is a top choice among buyers for its exceptional affordability, small and agile body style, and impeccable fuel economy. Chevy has put the Spark within reach of every buyer with its extremely reasonable price tag, as well as its reliable and durable build and low-cost maintenance and parts. The 2021 Chevrolet Spark is a fantastic compact hatchback, pleasing a variety of consumers. 1. OnStar Communications System Comes Standard Every 2021 Spark trim level in this lineup comes standard with a top communications system. If drivers ever find themselves in trouble or on the side of the road, all they need to do is press the little blue button of the system to be automatically connected with a roadside assistant respondent. This system includes an automatic crash notification that will call for help if you find yourself involved in an accident. The OnStar Communications System can also be called upon to provide driving directions should you become lost or in need of help. more 2. Advanced Infotainment Features Every model of the 2021 Spark comes standard with Chevy's Infotainment 3 interface. An infotainment system this sophisticated is typically reserved as an upgraded feature or on higher-end trim levels, but Chevy makes it standard across the Spark lineup. Every model comes equipped with a 7.0-inch touchscreen display that automatically syncs with your compatible smartphone through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Drivers and their passengers will also enjoy the 4G Wi-Fi hotspot that comes standard in every 2021 Spark. This Wi-Fi feature is extremely useful, as no one in the vehicle will need to waste their own data in order to stay connected to their network. The hotspot is also a great feature for creating movie nights while camping or streaming your favorite music by the lake. The overall driving experience is elevated by the four-speaker stereo system that turns every song into a soundtrack for your journey. 3. Strong Manual Transmission Drivers can choose between a standard manual transmission, which delivers superbly strong acceleration, or the available automatic transmission which makes every drive effortless. The manual transmission comes standard and has become a favorite among drivers who enjoy swift transitions and a highly responsive gearbox. The Spark's 98-horsepower engine compliments the transmission, providing a great performance while gracefully achieving highway speeds. This hatchback earns an EPA estimated 29 miles per gallon in the city and 38 miles per gallon on the highway, regardless of the transmission it is equipped with. Budget-conscious buyers love the 2021 Spark, not just for its low purchase price but also for its money-saving fuel ratings and maintenance costs. Its extreme value doesn't mean it sacrifices important qualities, however; the 2021 Spark is still packed with many highly sought-after features like advanced technology, convenient amenities, and an overall youthful style. Call or come by Merle Stone Chevrolet today to take this compact car for a test drive and discover its incredible overall value.

Although you can find coffee shops in nearly every place in the world, they are always as unique as the locations they call home. In the Porterville, CA area, that rings true. Come on out and discover these nearby cafes that you won't find anywhere else! The Mud House This family-owned business is proud to serve our area and they love getting involved with the community. They often host up-and-coming local musicians, making their shop the perfect place to combine music and coffee. Their drinks look stunning and if you need a little extra sweetness you can get them piled high with whipped cream, drizzled with sweet sauces, or even decorated with sprinkles. more 2.0 Coffee Co. For people who love products that are natural, you won't be able to get enough of this spot. Their coffee is lab-tested so you never have to worry about what you're consuming. They serve all the classic coffee drinks, including cold brew and mocha lattes, as well as their special 2.0 butter coffee and 2.0 butter latte. They also bake goodies in-house for you to enjoy on the side, plus keto options. Stafford's Chocolates At first glance, this may seem like just a chocolate shop but it's actually much more than that! They serve specialty coffee and everyone knows there's no better combination than coffee and chocolate. Of course, while you're there you can't miss their gourmet treats, including brittle, truffles, and a million different kinds of chocolates. Every piece is dipped by hand and made in small batches for the best quality. Exeter Coffee Company At another family-owned shop, this coffee is extra special because it is grown locally! They offer a full menu of many coffee drinks, including their brewed private blend, espressos, lattes, mochas, and more. If you prefer a beverage other than coffee, they have tons of tea, smoothie, and hot cocoa options. While you're there, you can even stock up on their merch to show off your favorite shop. Wildflower Cafe The cozy and casual atmosphere of this cafe makes it a lovely spot to start your day. Their decor is inspired by the overhanging oak trees and the nearby Pinellas Trail, giving the place a whimsical and fairy-like atmosphere. Get your morning coffee and a delicious meal here or come by for their Sunday brunch. Make sure to visit the market section for grab-and-go items, giftware, and other surprises. Wild Oak Coffee House Over in Springville, this little shop has a winning combination of coffee, breakfast sandwiches, and baked goods. They feature lots of locally-made goodies and ingredients and their homemade ice cream is also very popular. Make sure to enjoy their outdoor seating and the great view of the hills nearby. It's like fitting a little vacation in the middle of your busy day as you soak in the tranquility. Now that you know what makes the cafes in our area special, pick one and grab your morning coffee. Then, come by Merle Stone Chevrolet and discover why we have been known for our amazing service for the past sixty years!

If you're thinking about buying a full-size SUV, then you're going to adore the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe. Complete with a range of high-quality features plus the good looks to match, it's easy to see why this is a favorite vehicle for both drivers and critics. The Tahoe's Basics Looking for an impressive SUV? The Chevrolet Tahoe is here to give you bold style, impeccable performance, and true comfort. This car's large size and versatility as well as its range of safety features make it a great option for families and solo drivers alike. If you're familiar with the Chevy Tahoe's previous iterations, then you'll notice a marked difference in the '21 Chevy Tahoe. Its new design provides it with an even more muscular look. You'll also appreciate the other new features which include an independent rear suspension for an even smoother, more comfortable drive. more Pricing Options There are six available trim levels for the '21 Chevy Tahoe, starting with the LS for about $49,000. The next trim is the LT, which you can purchase for about $54,300. If you're looking for even more great features, you'll want to check out the RST which starts at $57,100. Do you want even more luxury out of your driving experience? The Z71 trim is available starting at $59,200. You've also got the Premier available for the starting price of $62,600. The highest trim level is the High Country which you can expect to spend about $69,600 on. Performance No matter which of the six trim levels you opt for, you can expect incredible performance from the '21 Chevy Tahoe. There are three incredibly powerful engine options available. The first is a 5.3-liter V-8 engine that makes an impressive 355 horsepower. There is also an even more muscular 6.2-liter V-8 engine that will get you 420 horsepower. Do you prefer diesel over gasoline? The '21 Chevy Tahoe's third engine option will certainly be of interest to you. If you go with this one, you'll get a 3-liter diesel six-cylinder engine that gets 277 horsepower. Interior Style and Comfort The inside of the '21 Chevy Tahoe exudes style and versatility. Chevrolet only equips this SUV with high-quality materials that are both good-looking and soft to the touch. You'll also love how roomy this vehicle is. Even passengers in the third row will be able to stretch their legs out. You'll find a range of great features inside the new Chevy Tahoe. The car's infotainment system is intuitive, and the 10.2-inch touchscreen display is easy to see and use. Connect to the system with your phone using either Android Auto or Apple CarPlay and listen to your music using the available Bose audio system. If you've been looking for an SUV that's just as luxurious as it is functional and versatile, then the '21 Chevy Tahoe is the car for you. You'll quickly fall in love with its amazing features, impressive engine options, and fantastic comfort. Visit us today at Merle Stone Chevrolet to learn more. Image: Chevrolet.com

Want a hardworking truck that ticks every box and looks great doing it? Then look no further than the always-dependable 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500. With fantastic new features and incredible power options, you'll love what's available with this new model. New for This Year The latest model has seen a number of upgrades designed to give you more bang for your buck. With a new infotainment system, impressive trailer-towing technology, and more choice than ever before, you'll be thrilled with what's available in 2021. more Customization You can design this pickup to be whatever you need it to be. There are eight trim levels available, plus choose from three separate cab and bed sizes. The regular cab seats three, while the double or crew can seat up to five. Whether you're after a no-fuss ride that gets the job done, or you want something that feels more like a luxury vehicle, you can make this car your own. For the latter, enjoy upgrades like heated seats, a sunroof, and a 360-degree camera system. If you're after the cheapest option, go for the standard 1500, which will set you back about 30k. Even in its most basic form, there's ample legroom, bed capacity, and cargo space, plus plenty of muscle; it's a fantastic pickup no matter what your trim. Power The customization doesn't end there. Choose from five killer engines, including a turbocharged four-cylinder with 310-horsepower, a 420-horsepower V8, and a turbocharged 6-cylinder diesel. Towing capacity has gone up with this model, and it now has a maximum towing capacity of 13,300 pounds. It can haul up to 2,280 pounds depending on the trim. You can opt for the Advanced Trailering System, which gives you a host of helpful features to optimize how you look after your trailers such as trailer service reminders and a pre-departure checklist. Handling Given how muscular of a truck it is, you'll love how smooth this Chevy drives. It's responsive and easy to maneuver even in the most confined areas. Rear and four-wheel drive options have you covered no matter how off-road you want to get. Choose between 6, 8, and 10-speed automatic transmission. Interior High-tech features are available, including excellent safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Connecting your phone is simple thanks to the standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Blast your favorite tracks as your tear down the highway with an optional seven-speaker Bose audio system. The layout of the interior has remained faithful to past designs, staying simple and easy to use. Comfortable, spacious seating comes in either cloth or genuine leather upholstery, and power-adjustable front seats have a range of movement to fit pretty well any driver. In 2021, the Chevy Silverado 1500 has proven once again to be the kind of robust, reliable pickup that will help you get any and every job done. Ready to get your hands on one? Come on down to Merle Stone Chevrolet in Porterville, CA, today.

If you enjoy having a slice of pizza with family and friends, Porterville, CA has plenty to offer. With over 15 different pizzerias to choose from, you can choose selections ranging from the classics to gourmet pizza that is unlike anything you have ever tasted before. Our top places for the best pizza in town include those with a rich history as well as vegetarian options. Enjoy a slice at one of these locations in the San Joaquin Valley. more Poor Richard's Pizza At Poor Richard's Pizza, you will be submerged in history as you step into one of the historic buildings of old Main Street. The family-owned business has been around since the 1970s and is most famously known for frozen beer mugs and thin crust pizza. The intricate stained glass and stunning wooden bar are some of the main attractions of this nostalgic pizza parlor. Whether you are enjoying a family gathering or simply having a drink with friends, you will get a taste of why Poor Richard's pizza has been a hometown favorite for generations. Make sure you drink responsibly and with moderation, for alcohol is intended only for adults of legal drinking age; do not drink and drive. Round Table Pizza If you are looking for hand-rolled dough, gluten-free, and vegetarian-friendly options, Round Table Pizza has got you covered. The founder, Bill Larson, shared his passion for quality ingredients in pizza back in 1959, and today his visions are still being honored by using many of the original recipes. With a modern twist on the classic medieval flair of the 1959 restaurant, Round Table Pizza offers a new seating experience with a contemporary feel. Their pizza is available in sizes ranging from personal to extra-large, and some locations offer special deals. Tony's Pizza Tony's Pizza has been offering its twist on New York style pizza for 36 years. The children of Tony and Patricia have opened multiple locations around the Kern and Tulare County, including the Porterville location, which opened in 2015. The most requested pizza on their list is one of the specialty pizzas known as the Chile Verde Pizza that entices customers with its tender pork simmered in a green chili sauce and mozzarella cheese on their signature pizza dough. Pizza Guys By starting every day with fresh, handmade dough and shredded mozzarella, Pizza Guys are sure to please. The high-quality toppings and their signature sauce, made from tomatoes grown in Central California, are incorporated into each of their gourmet pizza selections. Whether you decide to create your own or choose one of their specialty pizzas, they offer special deals and discounts to meet each budget. Now that you have settled on a pizza place, you will need a reliable ride to get you there. Merle Stone Chevrolet makes shopping for new and pre-owned vehicles in Porterville a fun experience and keeps the stress to a minimum. Contact Merle Stone Chevrolet today to find the automotive service you have been looking for.

An alternator is a generator that provides power to keep your vehicle's battery charged. This is an important part of your vehicle, as it cannot run properly if the alternator fails. When you're driving, you'll want to stay alert for some of the warning signs that your vehicle's alternator may be faulty. Take a look at some of the warning signs below, so you can take care of the problem as soon as possible. 1. Abnormal Engine Sounds and Smells If you start your engine and it makes squealing or rattling noises, you may need to have your alternator looked at. Additionally, smelling burnt rubber could mean that the alternator belt is deteriorating. Make sure to inspect your alternator belt regularly so that you don't replace the alternator when a less expensive component is creating the issue. more 2. Structural Damage Your alternator goes through a lot during its lifetime. Obviously, using it will cause wear over time, and this eventually has an impact on the structural integrity of the part's casing. When inspecting your alternator, look for cracks or other damage, and replace it immediately if you notice any structural damage. If you have repeatedly replaced your alternator as a result of structural damage in an unreasonably short period of time, you may have more significant mechanical issues to deal with. This repeated issue can manifest if a pulley is off-center or the alternator's tensioner is too tight. 3. Battery Refuses To Stay Charged If your battery doesn't stay charged, you could have a couple of different problems. Your battery could be too old to operate correctly, or your alternator could be damaged or dead. If your battery isn't old, the latter is almost certainly the problem. An onboard computer keeps track of the voltage output of your alternator and the charge level of your battery. When either of them has issues, you should see a warning light turn on somewhere on the driver's instrument panel. 4. Starting Difficulty or Stalling If your vehicle stalls at stops or is particularly stubborn when you're trying to start it, you may have a faulty alternator. Make sure you get your vehicle checked out as soon as possible after the first stalling incident. Procrastination can lead to disaster because a vehicle that stalls at the wrong moment can cause a severe accident. 5. Other Systems Keep Failing A failing alternator will cause issues with every electrically powered system and feature in your vehicle. If your outlets and USB ports aren't charging when devices are plugged in, your alternator may need attention. On the same note, your air conditioning and heating systems are connected to the alternator as are the safety systems, so if you notice problems with any of these elements, you should definitely have your alternator checked out. As long as you stay vigilant in terms of vehicle maintenance, you should have no trouble discovering alternator issues before they cause serious problems. If you notice any of the issues listed above, bring your vehicle in to Merle Stone Chevrolet in Porterville, CA to have it inspected before it becomes a major or costly problem. Image by Johnny Gejdner from Pixabay