Ten Great New Automotive Features
Cars have evolved a whole lot in the past 100 years. Remember when they were called “horseless carriages”? Back on those days, we learned that a glove compartment was indeed where you stored your gloves so your hands wouldn’t get as cold in the unheated vehicle, and floorboards were boards placed on the floor so your feet wouldn’t get caught in the parts working below.
However, even today, automotive technology continues to improve, and ten great new automotive features are sure to bring additional comfort to modern vehicles. Here is a brief look at the ten great new automotive features listed by Autotrader:
- Digital Gauges — Not only can you read them more accurately, but you can also get more informational data in a smaller space.
- Touch Screens — The more your vehicle has functionality that mimics your mobile devices, the easier they are to use.
- Stop & Start technology — Commonly seen on hybrids, more vehicles — including those with manual transmissions — save fuel by temporarily shutting off the engine while at a stop and restarting the engine once the foot is lifted from the brake pedal.
- Steering Avoidance — Though it’s not entirely autonomous driving, this could make a massive difference by lowering the number of pedestrian accidents.
- Semi-Autonomous Driving — We are still years away from fully-autonomous driving, so we’ll be happy to employ the use of semi-autonomous driving, which is a game-changer for long road trips and bumper-to-bumper commutes.
- Towing and Trailering Apps — If your car breaks down, these towing and trailering apps will help get you to safety more quickly. Even for those who are broken down but still close to home, it’s never fun to call around to find an available tow truck with a flatbed lift to cart your vehicle to the shop. We know this from personal experience. :-/
- Surround-View Cameras — While most people are used to rear-view cameras, surround-view cameras allow you to see the front and the sides, too. Who wouldn’t want this feature? It’s so smart!
- Wireless Infotainment Consoles — Why bother with extra cords and USB ports to hear your favorite music playlist when you could go wireless?
- Vehicle Control Apps — Like a genie in a bottle, you can hit the app to start your car, unpark itself, and pick you up at the front door.
- Road Scanning — Find obstacles in the road in advance and avoid potholes with road scanning technology. It should reduce the risk of accidents and damage to your vehicle’s undercarriage.
These modern technology advances are super exciting, aren’t they? However, don’t be fooled into thinking that all of these great new automotive features aren’t going to require software updates and regular service. That’s why you need Dick’s Automotive in Clovis for quality auto repair and maintenance. These sensitive electronic features require electronic specialists, and we are known for being the electrical diagnostics and computer experts in the region. After all, we spend many hours going to tech classes, learning what’s new in automotive technology so we can stay abreast of all the intricacies of advanced technology.
If you are looking for an auto repair shop in the Clovis or Fresno area, you’ve found it! Dick’s Automotive has a strict code of ethics so that you can expect honest, accurate service for your car, truck, or SUV! Schedule an appointment with our auto mechanics at Dick’s Automotive. We are conveniently located at 1550 Tollhouse Road in Clovis, CA. 93611.
Best New Year’s Resolutions for Your Car
If your car could talk, what would it say? Would it say “Wash me!” just like so many people have written in dust on others’ rear windows? Would it request a good detailing? Or would it want something more performance-related? The good news is you don’t have to be a Car Whisperer to know what your car would probably like. Your car probably wants the same things you do: to be treated with respect. Are we right?
Regular Detailing
Yes, we know it’s January and it’s raining in Clovis, California. But you can still work on the inside of the car if it’s raining outside. You can bring your car to a detailer, or you can do a lot of detailing work yourself with a kit from most automotive shops.
Preventive Maintenance
Having preventive maintenance might not seem really sexy while you’re waiting for your car. But when you realize how many days or weeks or months have gone by without any automotive issues? That truly is priceless! We’re big believers in preventive maintenance.
Pay Attention to Your Tires
January is a good time to buy new tires. After all, we could still get a few more months of rain, and you don’t want to have bald tires if you’re driving on wet roads. If your tires are relatively new, do they need to be rotated?
Get Some Accessories
You could get an emergency car kit for the trunk, some snazzy window film, or an organizer for the junk in the back seat. You might also look into a new app or two, such as Waze or Gas Buddy. Waze is a navigational app and Gas Buddy helps you find the cheapest gas.
Avoid Road Rage
We’re not intimating that you might be the source of road rage. Not at all. But there are plenty of others out there who suffer from road rage. It’s best to avoid those situations if at all possible. That means move away from angry people on the road and do not engage with them.
Make An Appointment Today
If you need an outstanding auto repair shop in the Clovis or Fresno area, where excellent auto mechanics can help with preventive maintenance, you’ve found it! Dick’s Automotive has a strict code of ethics, so you can expect honest, accurate service for your vehicle! Schedule an appointment with our auto mechanics at Dick’s Automotive. We are conveniently located at 1550 Tollhouse Road in Clovis, CA. 93611.
Holiday Lights in the Clovis Area
The holidays are always a festive time around Clovis. Anytime there’s a holiday, people want to jump in their cars and go look at the twinkly lights, or visit Santa. Here are a few events you might like around Clovis for this season.
City of Clovis Christmas Tree Lighting – December 3
Where else can you see Santa arriving by trolley, the Mayor and Santa lighting the giant Christmas tree, kids from Clovis High School and Clark Intermediate School choirs, plus refreshments and photo opportunities all in one place? This event occurs at 6:30 PM at Clovis City Hall, 1033 Fifth Street, and is free.
Breakfast with Santa – December 8
Santa will be at this breakfast with his friends (that means you!). From 8:00 – 10:00 AM at No Surrender Laser Tag & Adventure Park. Sponsored by Clovis Lions Club & Clovis P.D. Seating is limited. Adults $10; Children ages 3-12, $7; Children under 2 years old, free.
Christmas Fun in the Garden at Clovis Botanical Gardens – December 8
Have your picture taken with Santa! There will be props and ornaments for the kids, and gifts plus treats available for purchase. Clovis Botanical Gardens. $10 per family. 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Christmas Tree Lane – through December
This year, Santa Claus Lane, the computer-animated show set to music, is open to the public from 6 to 10 PM daily through December 31. Tune into 98.5 FM in your vehicles to listen to the show. 3116 Indianapolis Ave., Clovis. Free. Donations accepted and there will be food and hot cocoa for purchase on walking nights.
If you are looking for an auto repair shop in the Clovis or Fresno area, you’ve found it! Dick’s Automotive has a strict code of ethics, so you can expect honest, accurate service for your vehicle or sleigh! Schedule an appointment with our auto mechanics at Dick’s Automotive. We are conveniently located at 1550 Tollhouse Road in Clovis, CA. 93611.
Automotive Trends We’re Thankful For
Digital Inspections
If you haven’t experienced our digital inspections, you will very soon! It’s part of our job to pick out the best products for our customers as well as our auto repair technicians. Hopefully, digital inspections will speed up wait times, and get your approval more quickly. You can pick and choose what you want to be inspected. So far, the digital inspections are getting rave reviews!
Education
At Dick’s Automotive, we are great believers in education–both for ourselves and for our customers. Sometimes we educate customers with a flip chart and explain the problem. Not everyone wants to learn, but those that do will feel very welcome here.
Newly Remodeled Waiting Rooms
While not strictly an automotive trend, we’re so thankful that our clients love our new waiting room! Our office and bathroom were also remodeled. We have new floors and furniture, desks and chairs. We’ll be making even more changes in the future for your convenience and comfort.
Ratchet & Wrench is an event that our shop owner, Grant Takikawa, attended. 200 of the top shop owners around the country attended. This annual event is all about shop owners learning from and helping each other. There are no secrets at Ratchet & Wrench. Everyone has been through something. Met three other shop owners they hung out with.
Our Customers
Without all of you, we wouldn’t be where we are today! So a big THANK YOU to all of you. We appreciate you! Since November is the time of Thanksgiving, we wish all of you the very best holiday.
If you are looking for an auto repair shop in the Clovis or Fresno area, you’ve found it! Dick’s Automotive has a strict code of ethics, so you can expect honest, accurate service for your vehicle. Schedule an appointment with our auto mechanics at Dick’s Automotive. We are conveniently located at 1550 Tollhouse Road in Clovis, CA. 93611.
Why is October The Number One Month For Brake Repair?
Every October, the auto repair technicians at Dick’s Automotive in Clovis take part in Brakes for Breasts. Our auto mechanics invite you to take part, too. Brakes for Breasts started in 2011 and has raised over $600,000 for breast cancer research since its inception. When you come in for brakes during October, you get the brake pads for free, and just pay for labor and other costs. Dick’s Automotive donates 10% of all brake jobs to Brakes for Breasts. In turn, Brakes for Breasts donates 100% of the money received to research. Although we’re not participating in Brakes for Breasts this year, we do want to stomp out breast cancer and intend to participate in 2019.
There’s another reason to bring your brake service into Dick’s Automotive in October. Little wizards and goblins will be roaming the streets of Clovis and Fresno looking for goodies. Chances are, some of the little ghosts and goblins won’t be looking too carefully at the traffic because their focus will be on candy! Not only that, but some of the little ones will have their pets with them, too. So our auto repair technicians want to encourage you to bring your vehicle in for a brake service.
Dick’s Automotive has always had an interest in keeping you and your family safe. As we head into the rainy season, time seems to speed up. Making an appointment for a brake service in October makes a lot of sense, since that way you’ll be ready for all the holidays. Your brakes are critical to your family’s safety.
If you are looking for an auto repair shop in the Clovis or Fresno area, you’ve found it! Dick’s Automotive has a strict code of ethics, so you can expect honest, accurate service for your vehicle’s brakes. Schedule an appointment with our auto mechanics at Dick’s Automotive. We are conveniently located at 1550 Tollhouse Road in Clovis, CA. 93611.
How Ethics and Honesty Are The Principles Behind Dick’s Automotive
Our auto technicians at Dick’s Automotive are chosen a time and again by Clovis and Fresno drivers for auto repair. Why? Our actions adhere to a strict code of ethics and honesty. We will answer your questions honestly and service your vehicle as if it belonged to our own family members.
Ethics are rules you abide by, and honesty is telling the truth. At Dick’s Automotive, we operate with utmost integrity, as we are honest about the condition of your vehicle and only recommend an auto repair that is necessary for the safety and longevity of your vehicle. At all times, we will be upfront with you. When you choose Dick’s Automotive to be your go-to auto repair shop, you know you are dealing with a facility that has a very strong moral compass.
If you have a strict budget, we encourage you to let us know. Together, we will decide on what course of action makes most financial sense. Our auto technicians are on your side, as we are taking steps to ensure the safety and well-being of you, your family, and your vehicle. When we look at customers, such as yourself, we don’t see dollar signs. We are looking to play a part in keeping you and your family safe on the streets in Clovis and Fresno.
If you are looking for an auto repair shop in Clovis and Fresno, you are in the right place. Dick’s Automotive adheres to a strict code of ethics, so you can expect to receive honest and accurate service for your imported or domestic vehicle. Schedule an appointment with our auto technicians at Dick’s Automotive. We are conveniently located at 1550 Tollhouse Road in Clovis, CA.
What’s The Advantage of Jasper Products Over Others?
At Dick’s Automotive, we aim to give Clovis and Fresno drivers only the best; the best customer service, auto repair, and so on. That’s why we use Jasper Products. To service and repair your car, our auto technicians utilize long-lasting and dependable parts, including Jasper Products.
With a network of independent shops across the country, Jasper Products has been producing quality parts since 1942. They specifically focus on production of gas and diesel engines, transmissions, differentials, and rear axle parts. This company is committed to producing aftermarket parts that exceed both auto technicians’ and customers’ expectations alike. Because they stand behind the quality and reliability of their products, they offer a warranty of 3-years/36,000-miles.
At Dick’s Automotive, we aim to stay on the cutting-edge of the auto industry, and by utilizing Jasper Products, we can offer Clovis and Fresno drivers the latest and greatest aftermarket parts. Jasper Products continues to update their products as the manufacturers make certain changes.
If you are looking for an auto repair shop in Clovis and Fresno, you are in the right place. Dick’s Automotive adheres to a strict code of ethics, so you can expect to receive honest and accurate service for your imported or domestic vehicle. Schedule an appointment with our auto technicians at Dick’s Automotive. We are conveniently located at 1550 Tollhouse Road in Clovis, CA.
Why Is It a Big Deal To Be a Bosch Service Center?
Dick’s Automotive is the trusted source of auto repair in Clovis and Fresno. Our auto technicians are experienced, educated, and equipped with the latest and greatest tools and technology. We can service virtually all makes and models of cars, and we stand behind our work with a 3-year/36K-mile warranty. However, we think actions speak louder than words, and we are proud to say that Bosch Service has taken notice of our efforts. We are proud to be a Bosch Service Center.
What does it mean to be a Bosch Service Center? Bosch Service develops and distributes high-quality auto repair parts. They are, in fact, the largest original parts manufacturer in the world, and this organization has a program referred to as Bosch Service Centers. As an invitation-only organization, only the best of the best auto repair shops across the country are asked to join. Before joining, Dick’s Automotive had to undergo a rigorous certification process, which includes an examination of the facility’s technical skills and customer service.
By bringing your vehicle to a Bosch Service Center, you can have peace of mind, knowing you are receiving the absolute best service backed by a substantial warranty. Our auto repair shop must maintain the highest levels of technical skill and personable customer service. Only 1,600 auto repair shops nationwide were invited to join this prestigious organization, and Dick’s Automotive is one of the elite few.
If you are looking for an auto repair shop in Clovis and Fresno, you are in the right place. Dick’s Automotive adheres to a strict code of ethics, so you can expect to receive honest and accurate service for your imported or domestic vehicle. Schedule an appointment with our auto technicians at Dick’s Automotive. We are conveniently located at 1550 Tollhouse Road in Clovis, CA.
Why Is Regular Auto Maintenance Important?
For auto technicians that have your back, look no further than Dick’s Automotive. With a reputation for holding the best of interests of you and your vehicle close to our heart, our auto repair shop is the trusted source for maintenance and repair. Our goal is to keep your vehicle running safely and smoothly for years to come, and preventative maintenance is our recipe for success.
Your vehicle is one of your largest investments, only second to your home; preventative maintenance is a must to protect such a precious investment. At Dick’s Automotive, our auto technicians will quickly and thoroughly examine your car. Different makes and models of cars are prone to certain issues. For example, newer cars have a different fuel system that is causing trouble for vehicle owners. Dealerships often recommend maintenance at a later date, but our auto technicians believe you should services your fuel system every 15K miles. We strive to be proactive in preventing potential issues.
The phrase “it’s cheaper to keep her” is especially true when it comes to vehicles. Preventative maintenance is by far much less expensive than paying for an extensive auto repair down the road. Not only will you save money, but with maintenance, you are securing the safety, longevity, and driveability of your car.
At Dick’s Automotive, we take time to educate Clovis and Fresno drivers about the importance of maintenance, along with steps you can take to keep your car running in tip-top shape, such as the difference between good gas vs. bad gas. If you have any questions, we encourage you to ask.
If you are looking for an auto repair shop in Clovis and Fresno, you are in the right place. Dick’s Automotive adheres to a strict code of ethics, so you can expect to receive honest and accurate service for your imported or domestic vehicle. Schedule an appointment with our auto technicians at Dick’s Automotive. We are conveniently located at 1550 Tollhouse Road in Clovis, CA.
How To Keep Your Vehicle From Overheating in The Fresno Heat?
As Clovis and Fresno drivers, we know just how high the temperatures rise in our region. Most of us blast the A/C, seek out an ice-cold glass of water, and patiently wait for the hot season to pass. Our team of auto technicians at Dick’s Automotive has tips and tricks to ensure your vehicle doesn’t overheat, including:
1. Park in the shade: You can certainly feel the temperature difference between the shade and the sun, and believe it or not, but your car can too.
2. Tint your Windows: Tinted windows will not only keep you cooler, but they will also protect the precision interior of your car.
3. Turn on the Floor Vents: Hot air rises, so if you open your bottom vents while turning your blower on the maximum setting, the hot air will be pushed out. When your car begins cooling, you open your upper vents again.
4. Keep a Close Watch on your Temperature Gauge: On your dashboard, there should be a needle pointed toward the center, if this arrow begins to point towards hot, pull over immediately.
5. Blast the Heat: This action may seem counterproductive, but when you turn on the heat, you are blasting hot air away from your engine compartment and into the cabin of your car. It isn’t a long-term fix, but it can help in certain situations if your car seems starting to overheat.
6. Say Yes to Engine Coolant: A coolant mixture circulates throughout your vehicle’s engine, absorbing and ultimately eliminate heat. Without the proper ratio or level of coolant, your car is at a higher risk of overheating. It’s imperative for an auto technician, such as the team at Dick’s Automotive, to examine and flush your vehicle’s coolant, especially before we are dealing with temperatures in the double digits.
7. Don’t Forget about Your Battery: If your car’s battery is old and worn, it could be providing enough power to the rest of your engine. Your car ends up having to work extra-hard to keep from overheating. When you arrive at our auto repair shop, our auto technicians will thoroughly examine your vehicle’s battery for any signs of wear or tear.
If you happen to be in a situation with an overheated vehicle, we recommend that you pull over, park, and open up your hood as soon as possible. It’s best to err on the side of caution, especially if your vehicle is making unusual sounds or not starting at all, and call our team at Dick’s Automotive.
If you are looking for an auto repair shop in Clovis and Fresno, you are in the right place. Dick’s Automotive adheres to a strict code of ethics, so you can expect to receive honest and accurate service for your imported or domestic vehicle. Schedule an appointment with our auto technicians at Dick’s Automotive. We are conveniently located at 1550 Tollhouse Road in Clovis, CA.
