Blog

Powering Up: Where to Charge Your GMC EV in Northern New Jersey

Here at Frank’s GMC in Lyndhurst, we’ve been family-owned and serving our community for over 90 years. We’ve seen a lot of changes in the automotive industry, but nothing is quite as exciting as the electric revolution! With the arrival of powerhouse vehicles like the GMC HUMMER EV and the first-ever Sierra EV, we know many drivers in Bergen County and across Northern New Jersey are making the switch to electric.

One of the most common questions our team gets on the showroom floor is: "Where am I going to charge this thing?" The good news? Northern New Jersey is one of the most EV-friendly regions in the country. Range anxiety is a thing of the past. Here is your local guide to keeping your GMC EV charged and ready for the road.

Understanding Your Charging Options

Before hitting the local chargers, it helps to understand the three levels of EV charging:

  • Level 1 (120-Volt): This uses a standard household outlet. It's slow (about 3–5 miles of range per hour) but works in a pinch or for overnight trickle charging.
  • Level 2 (240-Volt): The gold standard for daily charging. You can have a licensed electrician install a Level 2 charger at your home, or you can find them at local offices, hotels, and parking garages. They provide roughly 15–50 miles of range per hour.
  • DC Fast Charging: When you are on the go and need a quick boost, DC Fast Chargers are your best friend. These public stations can get your battery from 20% to 80% in roughly 20 to 60 minutes, depending on the station's output and your vehicle's capability.

Top Charging Hubs in Northern NJ

Whether you are running errands, commuting, or taking a weekend road trip out of state, there are plenty of reliable public charging stations right in our backyard.

1. Retail & Entertainment Hubs

Why wait in the car when you can shop or grab a bite? Northern NJ malls are heavily equipped with Level 2 and DC Fast Chargers (primarily through networks like Electrify America and EVgo).

  • Westfield Garden State Plaza (Paramus): A massive hub with fast-charging options. Plug in, grab some food, and by the time you're done, your HUMMER EV or Sierra EV will be ready to roll.
  • The Mall at Short Hills (Short Hills): Premium shopping paired with premium charging stations located right in the parking decks.
  • Willowbrook Mall (Wayne): Conveniently located right off Routes 46, 80, and 23 with easily accessible EV charging spots.

2. The NJ Turnpike and Garden State Parkway

Taking a road trip or commuting? The rest stops along New Jersey’s major highways are highly equipped for DC Fast Charging.

  • Vince Lombardi Service Area (NJ Turnpike): Just a short drive from our Lyndhurst dealership, this service area offers high-speed charging, making it a great stop if you're heading toward the city or upstate New York.
  • Thomas Edison Service Area (NJ Turnpike): Heading south? Stop here for an ultra-fast charge and a coffee break.
  • Brookdale South Service Area (Garden State Parkway): A convenient fast-charging oasis right in Essex County.

3. Local Municipal Lots & Supermarkets

Many towns around Lyndhurst, Rutherford, and Nutley have begun installing Level 2 ChargePoint stations in their municipal parking lots. Additionally, keep an eye out at local grocery stores—chains like Whole Foods and select ShopRite locations frequently feature EVgo or EV Connect fast chargers right in the lot.

Your Best Tool: The myGMC App

You don't need to memorize charger locations to stay powered up. The myGMC mobile app is seamlessly integrated with your vehicle and takes the guesswork out of charging.

  • Route Planning: The app will calculate your route and automatically suggest the best charging stops along the way based on your current battery level.
  • Ultium Charge 360: GM’s charging network integrates with major public charging providers (like EVgo, Electrify America, and ChargePoint). You can locate chargers, check if they are currently available, and even pay for your session directly through the myGMC app.

Ready to Go Electric?

At Frank’s GMC, we pride ourselves on giving you a transparent, family-friendly buying experience without the typical high-pressure sales tactics. If you have been on the fence about going electric because you were worried about charging, rest assured that Northern New Jersey has the infrastructure to keep you moving.

Come visit us at 325 Orient Way in Lyndhurst, NJ to learn more about the incredible capabilities of the GMC EV lineup. Let's get you behind the wheel!

Recommended Posts

Upfit Your GMC: The Ultimate Guide to Aftermarket Accessories

You chose a GMC because you expect "Professional Grade" performance, reliability, and style. But driving a truck or SUV straight off the lot is just the beginning of the journey. Upfitting your vehicle with aftermarket accessories transforms a great piece of machinery into a personalized tool built specifically for your lifestyle, whether you are tackling rugged job sites, heading off-road for the weekend, or hauling the family cross-country. At Frank's GMC, we know that true capability means having a vehicle tailored to your exact needs. Here is how you can take your Sierra, Canyon, Yukon, or Acadia to the next level with the right aftermarket upgrades. Maximize Your Cargo and Utility The bed of your GMC truck or the cargo hold of your SUV is prime real estate. Protecting that space and maximizing its efficiency should be your first priority when exploring aftermarket additions. Tonneau Covers: From soft roll-ups to hard-folding and retractable covers, a tonneau cover secures your gear from the elements and opportunistic thieves while improving your truck’s aerodynamic profile. Bed Protection: A premium spray-in bedliner or a custom-fit drop-in mat defends against deep scratches, chemical spills, and rust. Toolboxes and Cargo Management: Heavy-duty aluminum crossover boxes keep your tools organized and secure, while sliding bed trays make retrieving heavy gear effortless without having to climb into the truck. Roof Racks and Carriers: For SUV owners, aftermarket crossbars and roof baskets unlock massive storage potential for kayaks, skis, and camping equipment. Upgrade Your Protection and Visibility When you push your vehicle to its limits, you need to ensure it is protected from the environment and clearly visible in all conditions. Running Boards and Nerf Bars: Make getting in and out of your  GMC a breeze while protecting your rocker panels from kicked-up debris. Power-retractable steps offer a sleek look by hiding away when the doors are closed. Auxiliary Lighting: Factory headlights are great for the highway, but dark trails and remote job sites demand more. Add A-pillar ditch lights, a grille-mounted LED light bar, or upgraded fog lights to turn night into day. Custom Floor Liners: Don't forget the interior. Laser-measured thermoplastic floor liners catch mud, snow, and coffee spills, keeping your interior looking factory-fresh. Why Upfit at Frank's GMC? The aftermarket accessory world is massive, and figuring out which parts fit your specific trim level and engine configuration can be a headache. Worse, improper installation of electrical components or suspension parts can lead to unsafe driving conditions and potentially void your factory warranty. When you source and install your upfits through Frank's GMC, you are partnering with certified experts who know these vehicles inside and out. We help you select premium aftermarket brands that meet our rigorous quality standards, and our factory-trained technicians ensure every running board, light bar, and bed cover is installed flawlessly. Stop by the Accessories department at Frank's GMC today to tell us exactly how you want to use your vehicle, and let's start building the custom truck or SUV you have always wanted.

Routine Maintenance Guide

A Guide to Routine Maintenance at Frank's GMC Keeping track of your vehicle’s maintenance schedule can feel like a guessing game, but staying proactive is the absolute best way to save money and keep your vehicle safe. Here at Frank's GMC in Lyndhurst, NJ, we believe in straightforward, transparent service. Whether you use your Sierra for heavy towing or rely on your Acadia for family road trips, here is a practical guide on when to bring your vehicle into the shop. 1. Oil Changes: The Lifeblood of Your Engine Oil lubricates the moving parts in your engine, prevents overheating, and sweeps away dirt. If you wait too long between changes, the oil breaks down into a thick sludge that causes extreme friction and eventual engine failure. Modern Synthetic Oil: Most newer GMC vehicles run on synthetic oil and feature an in-dash Oil Life Monitoring System. Generally, you should plan for a synthetic oil change every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. Conventional Oil: If you are driving an older model that uses conventional oil, the standard rule of thumb remains every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. Severe Driving Conditions: Stop-and-go traffic, towing heavy loads, and extreme winter weather put extra strain on your engine. Under these conditions, err on the side of caution and change your oil closer to the 5,000-mile mark. 2. Tire Care: Safety From the Ground Up Your tires dictate your braking distance, fuel economy, and handling. Ignoring them is not just expensive—it is a major safety hazard. Rotations: You should rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. Doing this at the same time as your oil change is a great way to stay on track. Rotation ensures the tread wears evenly across all four tires, extending the life of the entire set. Air Pressure: Check your tire pressure once a month. Under-inflated tires run hot and are prone to blowouts, while over-inflated tires wear out the center tread and result in a harsh ride. Replacement: Start shopping for new tires when the tread depth reaches 4/32 of an inch. If your tread is down to 2/32 of an inch, your vehicle is unsafe to drive, especially in rain or snow. 3. The Big Stuff: Major Milestones Beyond the routine basics, your vehicle requires more comprehensive servicing at specific mileage intervals. Brakes (30,000 - 50,000 miles): Brake pad lifespan depends heavily on your driving habits. If you hear a high-pitched squeal or feel a vibration in the steering wheel when stopping, it is time for new pads and a rotor inspection. Transmission Service (45,000 miles): Transmission fluid degrades over time and needs to be flushed and replaced to ensure smooth shifting and prevent catastrophic gear damage. Timing Chains and Belts (80,000 - 100,000+ miles): While many modern GMC engines utilize highly durable timing chains rather than belts, they still require professional inspection. Tensioners and guides can wear out as you approach the 100,000-mile mark, and failure here can ruin an engine. 4x4 Service (50,000 miles): Front, rear and transfer case service is recommended Tune-Up (90,000 – 100,000 miles): This is a service that can include replacement of spark plugs, wires, and a coolant flush. Never wait for a dashboard light to tell you something is wrong. Staying ahead of your maintenance schedule keeps your truck or SUV running exactly the way it was engineered to.

4 Fun Facts You Didn't Know About Frank's GMC

When you drive through Lyndhurst, New Jersey, it’s hard to miss the gleaming GMC trucks and SUVs lining our lot. But while you might know us as the best place to find your next Sierra or Acadia, there is a lot more to our dealership than meets the eye! Whether you’ve been buying from us for decades or you’re just starting your search for a new vehicle, here are a few fun facts about Frank's GMC that make us proud to be your local dealership. 1. Our Roots Trace Back to a 19th-Century Blacksmith! While you know us for selling state-of-the-art GMC vehicles today, our story actually begins with literal horsepower. At the dawn of the 20th century, Ben Pezzolla (the grandfather of our current President, Frank Pezzolla, Jr.) moved his family from the city to Lyndhurst—which was considered "the country" back then—and opened a modest blacksmith shop. When the horseless carriage began to take over, Ben’s son, Frank Sr., took his father’s relentless work ethic and metal-turning knowledge and pivoted. In 1930, Frank Sr. rented an old, out-of-repair garage on Ridge Road. He dug a repair pit with his own hands, fashioned steel ramps, and worked day and night in the freezing winters and sweltering summers. Knowing that local truckers relied on their rigs to survive, Frank focused heavily on truck repairs, earning a reputation for staying open day and night to get them back on the road. His dedication paid off: Frank Sr. was awarded a GMC franchise in 1937. By 1978, the business—expanding with the help of his three sons—moved to our current facility on Orient Way. Today, we are successfully run by the third generation and have grown from a one-man operation to a team of over 100 employees. The original blacksmith’s immigrant spirit of honesty, fairness, and treating everyone like family still runs deep in our veins today! 2. We Are Proudly Family-Owned and Operated Corporate, big-box dealerships are becoming the norm, but we have stayed true to our roots. Frank's GMC is a family-owned and operated business, which means we treat our customers like an extension of our own family. When you buy a vehicle or get your truck serviced with us, you aren't just a number in a computer system; you're doing business with your neighbors. 3. We Are deeply Invested in Our Community Our philosophy is simple: we want to give back to the community that has supported us for generations. Frank's GMC is incredibly active in the local Lyndhurst community. From sponsoring local events to championing local initiatives, we believe that a great local business should be an active participant in making the neighborhood a better place to live and work. 4. We’re Plugging Into the Future We might have 90 years of history behind us, but our eyes are locked on the future. Frank's GMC is on the cutting edge of the automotive industry's EV revolution. We aren't just selling traditional gas-powered powerhouses; our lot features the incredible HUMMER EV and the highly anticipated Sierra EV. Plus, we are a massive hub for commercial and fleet work trucks, ensuring local businesses have the tools they need to succeed in the modern era. Ready to Make History with Us? Next time you're in the market for a new or Certified Pre-Owned GMC, or if you just need some routine maintenance, stop by and say hello!