Automotive Industry News & Information - Dirk's Auto Clinic

Who created the world’s first car is actually a matter of debate; since the invention of the engine, people had been installing them on horse carriages to make them self-propelled. Even when automobiles specifically designed for engines came around, they were hardly recognizable as a car by today’s standards. However, the first patented automobile, a vehicle specifically designed to be propelled by an engine, was built by Karl Benz and completed in 1885.

If you own or operate a fleet or commercial truck, you know it’s hard to keep everything working perfectly all the time. You have to choose what to give priority to, and what can wait. However, some small problems are indicators that a bigger issue is on the way. At Dirk’s Auto Clinic in Crystal River, FL, our goal is to keep you and your fleet going.

We all love the sunshine but getting into that HOT car isn't always so wonderful even when you have a remote start it will take the breath out of you when the temperatures are soaring. Makes you want to pack your lunch instead of meeting friends for lunch! We decided that you should meet friends for lunch! So we got together and found some quick ideas for you. It isn't much but enjoy the sunshine on us here at Dirk’s Auto Clinic here in Crystal River! Call it our fun day fact!

It’s no secret, commercial truck tires are expensive. The good news is, if one of your tires is experiencing issues, Dirk’s Auto Clinic in Crystal River, FL has you covered. We want to make sure your fleet stays fully operational and you on the road! Here are some things to keep your eye on when it comes to your tires and tips to keep your tires lasting.

If you spend much time on the road, you’ll eventually encounter a flat tire on your vehicle. At Dirk’s Auto Clinic in Crystal River, FL we want to prepare you for what you should do next. First, get out of traffic immediately. It’s best if you can stop on solid, flat ground, out of the way of traffic where other drivers can see you. Don’t continue driving; your steering is compromised, and you risk damaging expensive components, including your rim. Next, decide whether you want to call a tow truck, or change the tire yourself. If you have towing and assistance then you can call for help but it is always great to be able to handle the situation yourself if need be as there is not always cell phone service and you sometimes do not have the luxury of the added time it would take to wait for that assistance.

Keeping the interior of your car, truck, or SUV clean and in good shape is an important part of making your vehicle last. Dirk’s Auto Clinic in Crystal River has some tips on keeping your car clean inside, and why keeping it clean matters.

At Dirk’s Auto Clinic in Crystal River, our expert mechanics are here to work for you. On large commercial trucks, there’s one component that works harder than almost all the rest; your brakes. Our technicians have the knowledge and ability necessary to have your truck stopping like the day it rolled off the lot, no matter what the problem is.

At Dirk’s Auto Clinic in Crystal River, FL, transmission maintenance and repair is our specialty. Here’s some information on your transmission pump - what it does, and how to know if yours needs to be replaced.