What is the Future of Driving?
In the last 15 years, our world has dramatically changed with the introduction of the smartphone, and in the next 15 years, we may be seeing some smart cars on the roads. There are many changes we may be seeing in the future, and the team at Dick’s Automotive is here to be with you each step of the way, staying on the cutting-edge of the latest and greatest tools and technology.
For most of us, when we think of smart cars, we just think of passenger cars, but surprise, surprise, we might be seeing smart, self-driving trucks on the roads. The trucking industry has a huge incentive for self-driving trucks. We may actually see self-driving trucks on the road before we see self-driving passenger cars.
Going back to passenger cars, what actually does the passenger do while your vehicle drives itself? Google believes we will be spending more time on our phones and computers, sending emails and browsing through social media. It is easy to see why Google has invested so much time and money into self-driving, smart cars. Coupled with this free time, you might find the commute to work becomes longer and longer, as you can virtually work while you are driving.
Because we are spending so much team in your vehicle, not driving and just relaxing, you might find yourself roaming the aftermarket stores for accessories. You might want to deck out your vehicle with a mini-fridge or a removable table? The way we think about driving will be revolutionized, as the time we spend in our vehicle will be completely different.
No matter what the future has in store for us, we will be ready. Embracing change is an important part of our job, as the automotive industry is always on the move. The team at Dick’s Automotive is also always on the move, ready to service and repair both newer and older models alike. Schedule an appointment with the technicians at Dick’s Automotive. We are conveniently located at 1550 Tollhouse Road in Clovis, CA. 93611.
Why Women Should Consider a Career in the Automotive Industry
There are almost 75,000,000 women in the civilian labor force in the United States. A little less than 50% of US workers are women. It was difficult to find a statistic of a percentage of women in the skilled labor force, but it appears to be around 5%. Less than 1% work in the automotive industry.
We live in a culture that has focused on pushing our students toward college and professional careers. We have done such an excellent job of that, in fact, that we are heading into a blue-collar crisis. We have already started. In the world of automotive, it is incredibly challenging to find skilled workers.
The auto repair shops that struggle to find qualified auto mechanics know this is happening, The rest of the country is barely beginning to recognize what this is going to mean for the rest of us — considering the high likelihood of your high school experience including references to sure students not being academically smart enough who were then sent to auto shop classes. It’s still happening, and it’s a big problem on many levels. First of all, let’s stop diminishing the intellectual abilities of folks who are mechanically inclined!
Consider this, working on a car requires significant intellectual abilities. When is the last time you tried to figure out something on your car that was more complicated than checking your oil? What you find under the hood of your car is a series of electronics, computers, and crazy technology. No one who is short on intellectual abilities makes for a good auto repair technician. Period.
America is slowly waking up to the realization that we are heading into a significant skilled-trade-jobs shortage. Who is going to fix your plumbing? What about installing new siding to your house? Then there’s your car… How are you going to find a qualified auto mechanic to effectively and efficiently diagnose and then fix what is going on with your ever-more-complicated vehicle?
In our schools, we are beginning to see more of a push for STEM learning for our girls. We have just barely started to see the rise in even acknowledging that our girls have skills and abilities in ways that we never encouraged before.
The reasons that this is the time for girls to rise and take their place next to their brothers under the hood of a car:
You have what it takes!
The industry is in dire need of excellent auto mechanics, service advisors, and more.
You are just as smart and capable as any man when it comes to computer skills, diagnostics, and developing high levels of skilled craftsmanship in the automotive world.
Just like in World War II, our women were called out from their homes to work in manufacturing jobs and plenty of other types of work that had been reserved for men. The difference is, the men won’t be returning to take these jobs away. The job is yours for good!
There is a lot less cost associated with attaining a tech degree then there is in obtaining a college education.
There is excellent earning potential in the automotive industry! You are more likely to earn six figures within a matter of years, as opposed to never if you get a degree in areas like social work, teaching, etc.
The time is now! Take advantage of it and follow your dreams. You’ve got this girl! Feel free to reach out to the team at Dick’s Automotive to ask questions about the industry. If you are already a trained tech, consider applying with us! We are conveniently located at 1550 Tollhouse Road in Clovis, CA. 93611. We’d love to meet ya!
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.
