Posted on 5/15/2024
In today's fast-paced world, convenience is king, and that extends to the automotive industry. Many customers seek quick quotes over the phone before committing to services or repairs for their vehicles. However, while phone quotes may seem efficient, they often fall short of expectations, leaving both customers and service providers frustrated. Let's delve into the reasons why phone quotes do not work out in the automotive industry. 1. Lack of Precision: One of the primary drawbacks of phone quotes is the inability to accurately assess the scope of work without physically inspecting the vehicle. Without seeing the car in person, it's challenging to provide an accurate estimate, leading to misunderstandings and potential discrepancies in pricing. 2. Hidden Issues: Vehicles are complex machines, and sometimes, underlying issues are not immediately apparent. A quick phone conversation may not uncover these hidden problems, leading to unexpected costs and del ... read more
Posted on 5/7/2024
When it comes to auto repairs, one crucial aspect often overlooked is the quality of the parts used. While it may be tempting to opt for cheaper alternatives, the long-term repercussions of using low-quality parts can far outweigh any initial cost savings. At Dickerson Automotive, we understand the significance of using only the highest quality parts in every repair job we undertake. Reliability and Performance Quality parts are synonymous with reliability and performance. Whether it's brake pads, spark plugs, or suspension components, investing in top-tier parts ensures that your vehicle operates at its optimal level. Inferior parts may fail prematurely, leading to frequent breakdowns and costly repairs down the line. By choosing quality parts, you not only enhance the performance of your vehicle but also reduce the likelihood of unexpected issues arising. Longevity One of the primary benefits of using quality parts is longevity. High-quality ... read more
Posted on 4/29/2024
In the automotive repair industry, one of the toughest challenges we face is dealing with aftermarket warranty companies. While some of these extended warranty providers are great to work with, many others impose strict pricing constraints that can severely impact our ability to maintain profitability and provide quality service to our customers. At Dickerson Automotive, we strive to be transparent with our customers about the constraints and challenges associated with aftermarket warranty policies. We inform them upfront that they may be responsible for any costs that the warranty company does not cover, including labor and parts markup. However, navigating the claims process with these warranty companies often proves to be a daunting task. Many of them impose pricing restrictions on labor rates and parts markup, sometimes even demanding that we provide parts at no markup whatsoever. This puts us in a difficult position, as markup on parts is essential for our profitability and sust ... read more
Posted on 4/28/2024
Have you ever wondered if it's possible to shift your car into reverse while it's still moving forward? This question might sound absurd, but it's one that many drivers have pondered at some point. Let's check this intriguing topic and debunk any misconceptions surrounding it. The Mechanics of Transmission: Understanding How Cars Shift Gears To understand whether putting a car in reverse while moving forward is feasible, it's essential to understand how a vehicle's transmission system operates. In most modern cars, the transmission serves as the intermediary between the engine and the wheels, allowing for smooth acceleration and deceleration by shifting gears. The Risks and Consequences: Why It's Not Advisable It's expected to bring the vehicle to a complete halt in manual transmissions before shifting into reverse to prevent gearbox damage. However, it's possible to force the shifter into reverse while the ... read more
Posted on 4/24/2024
Why Does My Car Squeak When I Turn? Exploring the Causes and Solutions Do you hear an annoying squeaking noise every time you turn the steering wheel of your car? It's a common issue that many drivers experience, but the source of the squeak can vary depending on several factors. Understanding why your car squeaks when you turn can help you address the problem effectively and ensure a smoother driving experience. Let's delve into some potential causes and solutions for this frustrating issue. 1. Worn or Dry Suspension Components One of the primary culprits behind squeaking noises when turning is worn or dry suspension components. Over time, components such as ball joints, control arm bushings, sway bar bushings, and tie rod ends can wear out or accumulate dirt and debris, leading to friction and squeaking sounds. Inspecting these components for signs of wear and lubricating them with appropriate lubricants can often resolve the issue. 2. Struts or ... read more