Category Archives: Buying & Service Tips (Choosing cars, parts and shops)

How Much Is My Car Worth? Should I Repair or Replace It?

How Much Is My Car Worth? Should I Repair or Replace It?

How Much Is My Car Worth? Should I Repair or Replace It? One of the most common questions car owners ask is: “How much is my car worth?” When a repairs  large or small come up with your current vehicle makes you stop and think, Is this worth fixing? Should I just buy new?  Knowing the answer helps you decide whether it makes more sense to invest in repairs or start shopping for something new. Step 1: Check Online Car Value Tools There are several free resources that give you an estimate of your car’s value: Kelley Blue Book (KBB.com)Edmunds.comNADA GuidesLocal dealership trade-in tools These sites ask for your vehicle’s year, make, model, mileage, and condition. Once entered, you’ll get a price range ... read more

The Importance of Tires: Why Matching, Proper Wear, and Inflation Matter

The Importance of Tires: Why Matching, Proper Wear, and Inflation Matter

The Importance of Tires: Why Matching, Proper Wear, and Inflation Matter Yourtires are the only part of your vehicle that touches the road, which makes them one of the most important components of your car’s safety and performance. Unfortunately, tire maintenance is often overlooked. Driving with mismatched tires, uneven tire tread wear, or incorrect tire pressure can lead to reduced handling, poor fuel efficiency, and even dangerous situations on the road. Let’s take a closer look at why tire care is so important and what you can do to keep your car driving safely. Why Yo ... read more

Top Features Customers Look for in an Auto Repair Shop

Top Features Customers Look for in an Auto Repair Shop

Choosing the right auto repair shop is a critical decision for every vehicle owner. Whether it’s a routine oil change or a major repair, drivers want to ensure their car is in trusted hands. So, what makes an auto repair shop stand out? Here are the top features customers commonly look for when selecting an auto repair service: 1. Trustworthiness When it comes to auto repair, trust is everything. Customers value shops that provide honest diagnostics and transparent pricing. They want to feel confident that they’re not being sold unnecessary repairs or overcharged for services. Building a reputation for integrity and straightforward communication is key to earning customer loyalty. Here at Dickerson Automotive, we’ve spent 25 years building and maintaining the trust of our valued customers.2. Qualified Technicians The expertise and certifications of the mechanics can make or break an auto repair shop’s reput ... read more

Elevate Your Truck: The Complete Guide to Adding Leveling Kits and Suspension Lifts

 Elevate Your Truck: The Complete Guide to Adding Leveling Kits and Suspension Lifts

Adding leveling kits and suspension lifts to trucks is a popular way to enhance both the aesthetic appeal and off-road performance of your vehicle. Here at Dickerson Automotive we can help you add the Suspension upgrades you have always wanted.  Here's a detailed guide to what these modifications entail and their benefits, based on information from Cognito Motorsports. Leveling Kits   Purpose and Benefits: Leveling kits are designed to raise the front of the truck to match the height of the rear. This is particularly useful for trucks that have a noticeable front-end dip, often due to heavy engine weight or other factors. By leveling the truck, you achieve a more balanced and aggressive stance.   Types: - Strut Extensions: These are commonly used in newer trucks with strut front suspensions. They are installed on top of the factory struts to provide a lift. - Torsion Keys: For trucks with torsion bar suspension systems, upgraded torsion keys can be used to l ... read more

The Pitfalls of Phone Quotes in the Automotive Industry: Why They Often Miss the Mark

The Pitfalls of Phone Quotes in the Automotive Industry: Why They Often Miss the Mark

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