A Message From Our Service Department
At Thelen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, we strive to make your service experience the best we can.
So, our Thelen service and parts teams want to be completely transparent with our customers about the struggles the vehicle repair industry is facing with the ongoing vehicle parts supply chain shortages and the how it is affecting us and our customers. During this time, we completely understand your frustrations and we thank you for your patience and understanding. We will do everything we can to get your vehicle serviced and/or repaired as quickly as possible.
Why is there a parts supply chain shortage?
Part manufacturers have a shortage of raw materials they need to make the parts that are in demand. Plus, there are labor shortages at the factories making the parts. Together these are causing a massive vehicle parts supply chain disruption and shortage.
What does this mean for the vehicle repair/service industry?
This is affecting wait times on repairs drastically. Repairs that would have been done within a day or two, are now taking weeks, some even months, because dealerships can’t keep the parts in stock or get them fast enough.
Can’t the parts just be bought online and not from the manufacturer?
Yes and no. Yes, parts can be bought online. However, if a part isn’t made by your vehicle’s part manufacturer it most likely won’t be covered under your warranty in the future. If the part breaks later on, that could be more costly in the long run. Also, many car repair shops are now buying this way and there are only so many parts to go around.
What does this mean for me if I need my vehicle repaired?
Patience and understanding are appreciated when parts are ordered for your vehicle repair. As soon as the parts arrive for your vehicle we will contact you right away and get your vehicle in as soon as our schedule allows.
Why are service appointments being scheduled weeks out?
Before the parts supply shortage, parts were normally on hand or one to two days away, when a vehicle needed repaired. This resulted in only one appointment needed to get the vehicle fixed. Now, since most parts aren’t in-stock, two appointments are needed. The first appointment, to access the issue to find what needs repaired and what parts are needed and the second after the parts arrive to make the needed repairs. This is causing a bottleneck with many repair shops. Thus, many repair shops are scheduling appointments weeks out. Some other dealers in the area have even stopped taking new customer altogether.
Here at Thelen Auto Group we will always make sure to get you in at the earliest appointment and as soon as we are able to have adequate time needed to make the repairs your vehicle needs.
Why am I not updated about my parts and when they are expected to arrive?
Simply put, the ETA we receive from the manufacturer is only an Estimated Time of Arrival, which in today’s atmosphere is incorrect. The shipping times are sporadically changing on a day-to-day basis. So, that same part ordered today stating that it will be here next week, could change tomorrow stating 2-3 weeks out or more. We contact the customer upon the part arrival at the dealership, because that is the only date we can be 100% accurate on at this time.
As soon as parts arrive at Thelen we contact the customer to let them know and to get them scheduled in for repairs at the earliest appointment time. Thank you for your patience!
Keep Your Pet Happy & Healthy on Your Next Family Trip
When you are planning for your next trip, you might not want to leave the furry members of your family home where they won’t be able to join in the fun. Thelen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Bay City, MI, wants to help you make your pets’ time with you in the vehicle as safe and enjoyable as possible. We know it can be stressful for your furry family member to spend a long time in a vehicle, especially if they aren’t used to doing so. Thankfully with several great tips, everyone in the vehicle can have a satisfying time on the road, including your pets!
How Can You Keep Your Pets Happy & Safe While on the Road?
Ease Them In – A couple of weeks before your planned trip, start taking your pets for short drives in the vehicle you plan on taking. This way, they can get used to the sensation of a moving vehicle and not being in their familiar surroundings. If you have a local park nearby your home, this can be a great initial trip to take as it shows your pet there is a good reason to take the trip. As the time gets closer, increase the time your pet spends in the vehicle, so they get comfortable with long periods of time on the road.
Plan Stops – Planning set stops along the route for fuel or for a break can be helpful not only for your pets but for the rest of the family as well! This also helps you designate approximately how long you’ll plan on spending in the vehicle at any time. A good plan is to spend no longer than two hours at a time if possible. This way, your pet doesn’t have to wait a long time before getting to run around and get fresh air.
Bring Important Items – If your pet has a special diet or has a favorite treat, make sure you pack plenty of those items to last the entire trip. As you can’t guarantee that you will find those items while on the road, having extra is better than not enough. This also holds true for important medicine that your pet needs. It is also a good idea to bring items such as a leash, waste bags, and toys along so that you can be prepared to care for your pet at any point during the trip.
Jeep Recognized for 20th Consecutive Year as the Most Patriotic Brand in a Recent Survey
Own a Vehicle That Exemplifies the Patriotic Spirit with a Jeep
When you think about a Jeep vehicle, you might think about the American spirit that the brand projects. Following its military-inspired designs and attention to reliable performance, Jeep has maintained its hold as a national brand icon. According to a survey conducted by Brand Key, Jeep has earned the designation of “America’s Most Patriotic Brand” for the 20th consecutive year! If you want to own a vehicle from a company that exudes the American way of life in mid-Michigan, visit Thelen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Bay City, MI today! We will be happy to get you behind the wheel of a sensational Jeep vehicle.
The American Spirit of a Jeep Model
Military Inspiration – Since 1941, Jeep has been drawing inspiration from the military. This all started with the reliable 4×4 platform for vehicles that the Army needed. This carried over to its mass production models as a method to make everyday driving in all weather conditions a confident experience. You can see the more militaristic visage through vehicles like the Wrangler and the Gladiator. Speaking of those two models, there will be a special Freedom package available for the 2023 model year versions of both vehicles. This will be a direct tribute to the U.S. military in its design elements.
American Appearance – As a long-standing brand in the United States, any Jeep model has become synonymous with America itself. Just one glimpse at a new Jeep like the Grand Cherokee or the Compass inspires a feeling of patriotism that no other brand can deliver. This immediate response is a leading reason why so many Brand Key survey takers said the Jeep is the most patriotic brand in the United States for the past 20 years!
Dependability – The American spirit is one that relies on being dependable. Throughout the years, Jeep vehicles have proven that they can provide trusted performance over many years thanks to their impeccable construction. When you purchase a new Jeep model from Thelen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, you can be confident that your vehicle purchase will last for many years to come. When you need routine maintenance to keep your vehicle up to date, you can trust our Service Center to provide the quality work your premium vehicle requires.
(photo credit: Jeep)
Get Behind the Wheel of a Quality Pre-Owned Dodge in Mid-Michigan
Are you searching for a vehicle that can comfortably seat your entire family while keeping up with your modern needs? At Thelen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Bay City, MI, we are happy to provide you with a quality pre-owned minivan like the 2019 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT. Spacious and catered to appeal to today’s family, this vehicle is a fantastic choice for everyday mid-Michigan cruising. The Grand Caravan has always been a trusted option in the minivan market with its reliable performance and modern interior amenities. Treat yourself and your family to a top ride with the pre-owned 2019 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT today!
Reasons to Choose the 2019 Dodge Grand Caravan
Dependability – You need your family cruiser to get around town with plenty of performance so that you can confidently haul the family around to their favorite destinations or transport large items such as furniture with ease. The 2019 Dodge Grand Caravan comes equipped with a 3.6L V6 engine that generates the reliable power you need to do your daily tasks with satisfying performance. Combined with the six-speed automatic transmission, the minivan makes sure everyone in the vehicle is treated to a smooth ride as well.
Cavernous Interior – Boasting an incredible 156.1 total cubic feet of passenger space, all seven occupants of the 2019 Grand Caravan will have plenty of room to comfortably stretch out in. If you and your family appreciate having personal space while on long trips, this is the vehicle for you! The Grand Caravan is also a very capable cargo hauler. With up to 143.8 cubic feet of cargo space when all rear rows are folded down, you can make short work of demanding hauling needs.
Ride Accentuating Features – To go along with the spaciousness of the cabin, the seating in the 2019 Dodge Grand Caravan is well-supported to keep everyone comfortable on even the longest trips across the state. The Uconnect multimedia system has access to a variety of convenient and media-related applications as well. This includes Bluetooth for hands-free smartphone use and Streaming Audio. Everyone will enjoy their favorite songs through the six-speaker sound system.
Prepare for a Long Road Trip in Your Chrysler Vehicle
Many mid-Michigan families are going on the summer vacations that they have been waiting all year for. If you are getting ready to set off on a road trip across Michigan or even outside the state, getting your Chrysler ready for heavy travel is a top priority. The last thing you would want to happen is an emergency stop for servicing or a breakdown on the side of the highway. At Thelen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Bay City, MI, we would like to share with you the importance of getting your vehicle prepared for the trip you are about to go on. A well-functioning vehicle is one that will maximize the enjoyment that everyone on the trip will experience. Our Service Department will be happy to provide any of the services required to get your Chrysler travel ready!
Important Services for Optimal Road Trip Enjoyment
Air Conditioning – No matter where you go in the United States, you can count on the weather to likely be hot this summer. Spending a long time in a vehicle without properly working air conditioning can be a less than ideal experience for everyone in the vehicle. Having air filters changed and refrigerant levels checked before you go on your vacation will ensure that everyone in the vehicle has the cool air for an enjoyable ride.
Battery – In addition to the increased air conditioning demand, your battery has to power a plethora of vital vehicle functions while on the road. When going on extended periods of travel, this can be especially taxing on the battery if it is not working properly. You can have your vehicle’s battery checked with our technicians to see if it will be capable of handling the long journey you plan on going on. If not, we will be happy to provide you with a solution that works best with your vehicle!
Oil & Coolant – Undertaking the most strain during long travel periods in hot weather, your engine needs the fluids that keep it functioning properly. Without adequate levels of oil and coolant, you run the risk of your engine overheating or failing altogether. Scheduling an appointment with our Service Center to have your oil changed and coolant levels filled up is a great way to ease the stress of the journey!
(Photo Credit: iStock)
An Important Designation Earned by the 2022 Jeep Compass
When mid-Michigan customers are looking for a modern, yet adventurous SUV to fit their family’s needs, the Jeep Compass has been a trusted choice. Not only does the Compass provide thrills for the driver and other passengers, but it also delivers a reliable and secure vehicle for everyday driving situations. This dedication to ensuring a safe ride for families is why the 2022 Jeep Compass has earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick designation when equipped with LED projector or reflector headlights and High Beam Assist. Thelen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Bay City, MI, is excited to offer you the opportunity to own this proven SUV and give your family the comprehensive ride that they deserve.
Earning the IIHS Top Safety Pick Honor for the 2022 Jeep Compass
The 2022 Jeep Compass excelled in the testing done by the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS). In the six crashworthiness tests done by the IIHS, the Compass earned the highest possible marks for safety. The organization also noted that the Automatic Emergency Braking System in the 2022 Compass was evaluated as “Superior”. The supplementary Pedestrian Detection technology received “Advanced” ratings from the IIHS testing. Add on either the LED reflector or projector headlights and available High Beam Assist, and you get an SUV that caters to a wide array of safety needs.
Shop for the 2022 Jeep Compass with Thelen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram
If you are ready to have peace of mind on every adventure you take with your family, Thelen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Bay City, Michigan would like for you to consider the 2022 Jeep Compass. Excelling in many of the key metrics that establish it as a reliable option, the Compass is a fantastic all-around SUV choice. When it comes to shopping for a new 2022 Jeep model, mid-Michigan drivers trust us over other local competition because we make the entire experience as hassle-free and informative as possible!
(Photo Credit: Jeep)
Come See Why Mid-Michigan Jeep Drivers Trust the Service They Get at Thelen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram
Keep Your Jeep Well-Maintained in the Mid-Michigan Region
Everyday driving in mid-Michigan can take a lot out of your Jeep with the ever-changing weather conditions and various driving surfaces we regularly encounter. Therefore, keeping on top of your vehicle’s maintenance with quality service over the course of the year is paramount to achieving a reliable, long-lasting driving experience in your favorite Jeep. Thelen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Bay City, MI, is pleased to be a trusted destination for local residents who want dedicated technicians working on their vehicles with all the appropriate knowledge and resources.
Why Do Jeep Drivers Trust Thelen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram?
Your family’s Jeep takes on every adventure it faces with the rugged dependability and performance that you expect it to. However, you should also remember to treat it with the care that it deserves in return. While you could bring your vehicle to a conventional mechanic, you can’t guarantee that they will be using recommended tools and resources on your Jeep. When you bring it into the Thelen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Service Center in Bay City, you can be confident that the personnel working on your vehicle have been specially trained to work on that particular model. They also have access to the wide array of recommended tools, parts, and fluids thanks to our well-stocked Parts Department so that your vehicle is getting the best treatment in mid-Michigan.
Contact Thelen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Bay City, MI Today
If you need to get your Jeep in for a routine maintenance appointment to get it ready for summer, call the Thelen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Service Center today at (989) 439-9714 to speak with one of our technicians directly. They will help you find a convenient time to bring your vehicle in for an appointment as soon as possible for the quality care it deserves. Do you prefer to schedule your appointment while already searching the Internet? Our website features a convenient Appointment Scheduling form so that you can just as quickly book a time for premier mid-Michigan Jeep servicing.
(Photo Credit: iStock)
Updates to Our Pre-Owned Vehicle Warranty in Bay City, MI
Thelen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram and the rest of the Thelen Auto Group in Bay City, MI, are announcing that we are updating our warranty for pre-owned cars/trucks/vans/SUVs. Now when you purchase any one of the qualifying vehicles from our pre-owned inventory, you get a three-month/3,000 warranty to go along with your new-to-you vehicle. Our commitment to making sure your time with us is as stress-free as possible in the mid-Michigan region extends to the warranty that will offer you for peace of mind after your purchase.
New Pre-Owned Vehicle Warranty Details
Which vehicles in the Thelen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram pre-owned inventory qualify for the updated three-month/3,000-mile warranty? Any vehicle that is seven model years old or newer while also having 100,000 or fewer miles on the odometer is able to have the warranty included with their purchase. Right now, we have plenty of qualifying vehicles in our inventory ready to have you drive them off our lot! How about a recent model year 2020 Jeep Compass, or a 2019 Dodge Grand Caravan? Both of these quality vehicles and more are able to come with the newly updated pre-owned warranty!
Visit or Contact Thelen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram for More Information
Thelen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Bay City, MI, is pleased to be a leading destination for drivers ready to purchase new or pre-owned vehicles in the mid-Michigan area. Not only do we provide you with a top customer shopping experience, but we also make sure you are catered to every step of the way. This includes making sure you have peace of mind with your new or new-to-you vehicle purchases after your time with us. Take advantage of our updated three-month/3,000-mile pre-owned vehicle warranty on qualifying models and get behind the wheel of a car/truck/van/SUV that will make everyone in your family feel satisfied during every adventure!
A New Option to Get Your Ideal Chrysler Vehicle in Mid-Michigan
Thelen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Bay City, MI, always tries to keep a diverse array of vehicles available in our new inventory. Despite this, we know that you have a distinct idea of what features and body style you want from your new vehicle purchase. As such, we have introduced a new option on our website to help you get behind the wheel of the perfect vehicle for you. You can now custom order your ideal make and model to get the personalized touches you want most, straight from the factory.
Benefits of Custom Ordering a New Chrysler Today
If you are currently interested in purchasing a new Chrysler, like the Pacifica or the 300, and can’t find what you’re looking for, custom ordering is a fantastic solution. You still get to work with our friendly and knowledgeable sales staff during the process so that you are getting the best shopping experience in mid-Michigan. Custom ordering a new Chrysler also means that you don’t have to compromise anywhere in terms of personalized touches and added features. Want a blue Pacifica Hybrid with all the deluxe interior amenities included? With our application at Thelen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, you can get that exact vehicle! When it comes to purchasing the new addition to your family, all financing and other sales-related elements are agreed upon when you conclude your order so you can be confident you are getting a vehicle that perfectly fits your budget!
Choose Thelen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram for Your Custom Order Needs
We know there are many places you can choose in mid-Michigan to purchase or custom order a new vehicle. However, Thelen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Bay City has established itself as a leading destination for new vehicle sales in the region because we are staffed by a reputable bunch of associates. This same attention to detail is brought to our online shopping experience as well. Visit our website where you can custom order your new Chrysler and get the perfect vehicle for you and your family!
(Photo Credit: Chrysler)
Maximizing Your Jeep’s Fuel Economy in Mid-Michigan
Gas prices in mid-Michigan are constantly fluctuating, making it difficult to predict how much it will cost to fill up your tank when it comes time to fuel up. To help offset this uncertainty, you can take steps to improve your overall gas mileage so that you can wait longer between your fill-ups. Thelen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Bay City, MI, would like to share with you some useful tips to keep your vehicle’s fuel efficiency at its peak. Not only does this mean keeping your vehicle well-maintained, but it also means incorporating various changes to your driving style to keep speed control as smooth as possible.
Top Tips for Maximizing Fuel Economy
Cleaning/Decluttering Your Vehicle’s Interior – Your vehicle has to work harder to accelerate the heavier it gets, thereby reducing overall fuel efficiency. If you have unnecessary items in your vehicle, it might be a good idea to remove them if they are not necessary to your daily travel plans. Every bit of weight you can remove could positively impact your fuel economy!
Keeping Your Vehicle Well-Maintained – A healthy vehicle is a well-functioning one! Keeping your engine’s air filter clean as well as properly changed oil is essential to maximizing the functionality of your Jeep. Ensuring your vehicle’s tires are at their appropriate air pressure also helps improve fuel economy as underinflated tires can cause unwanted drag. If you need assistance with any of the elements of vehicle care, our Service Center at Thelen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Bay City is happy to help!
Slow Down on the Highway – The AAA has reported that your vehicle’s fuel efficiency hits its peak at 50 MPH. The faster you go above 50 MPH, the more your fuel economy decreases. As such, it can actually be beneficial to reduce your average highway speed by anywhere from 5 to 10 MPH depending on various factors.
Let Thelen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Help You with Fuel Efficiency Measures
When it comes to getting the best fuel economy possible, Thelen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Bay City, MI, is happy to help with any service-related elements. You can call our Service Center directly at 989-402-9926 or you can access the form on our website for convenient appointment scheduling. We can replace your engine’s air filter, as well as give it recommended oil to maximize both its efficiency and performance. Help offset the uncertainty of gas prices by making your Jeep as efficient as possible!
(Photo Credit: Pexels)
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