Car Innovations That Didn’t Last

License Plates: the Numbers

License plates are more than just a series of numbers and letters on the back of a car. These small, often overlooked pieces of metal have a rich history, evolving from simple tags to complex identifiers with unique designs and personalized messages. From their origins in the early 20th century to the personalized plates that make us smile (or scratch our heads), license plates have become a blend of art, history, and sometimes downright oddity.

From Hand Cranks to Push-Button Ignitions

When you think of starting your car today, it’s as simple as turning a key or pressing a button. But the journey of the starter motor is a fascinating one, dating back over a century. Before electric starters, starting a vehicle wasn’t nearly as convenient or safe. Let’s take a quick look back at how this essential component evolved and transformed the driving experience.

The Early Days: Hand Cranks (Pre-1912)

DIY Car Maintenance: Keeping Your Vehicle in Top Shape
As you know at DeBoer’s we are a full-service auto repair, truck, and fleet shop, we meet customers with varying needs, from complete service maintenance and repairs to those who enjoy doing some of the work themselves. If you're among the DIY enthusiasts, we want to assist you with what maintenance tasks you can tackle to keep your car running smoothly between professional visits. We've got some tips to help you out.

At DeBoer's Auto, we believe in keeping your adventures rolling smoothly, and this September, we're here to help you gear up for whatever the season has in store. Whether you're planning a scenic fall road trip or just want to ensure your truck or SUV is ready for the changing weather, General Tire has you covered—and we're sweetening the deal.

Grab a $100 Rebate with General Tire From September 1st through October 31st, 2024, when you purchase a set of four qualifying light truck or SUV General Tires, you’ll be eligible for a $100 Visa® Prepaid Card by mail.* It’s as simple as that—buy, submit your rebate, and enjoy the ride!

Why General Tire? General Tire delivers top-notch performance, whether you’re hitting the highway or tackling rougher terrain and looking for all-season performance. The G-MAX AS07 is your go-to for ultra-high performance, no matter the weather. Or maybe you’re after a quieter, smoother highway drive? The newly released GRABBER H/T is perfect for keeping road noise minimal.

At DeBoer’s Auto, we’re known for being a dog-friendly shop, but we haven’t forgotten about our cat-loving customers! In fact, cats and cat imagery have played a surprisingly significant role in the automotive industry. From sleek and powerful designs to agile and responsive handling, these feline influences have helped shape some of the most iconic vehicles on the road. Let’s take a look at how our furry feline friends have left their mark on the world of cars.

Jaguar: The Quintessential Feline Symbol

Understanding Your Car’s Suspension: 
At DeBoer’s Auto, we believe that understanding your vehicle’s essential parts shouldn’t require a mechanic’s certification. That’s why we’re breaking down your car’s suspension system in a way that’s easy to grasp, even for an 8-year-old!

What is a Suspension System?
Your car’s suspension is like a team of superheroes working together to make sure your ride is as smooth as possible, even when the road gets rough. Let’s meet the team:

Springs: The Bouncers
Springs are like the bouncers at a trampoline park. Their job is to absorb the impact of bumps and dips in the road, so you don’t feel every single jolt as you drive. They make sure that when your car hits a bump, it can bounce a little without making the ride uncomfortable.

August is here, which means that it’s time to prepare for the upcoming school year. At DeBoer’s Auto, we understand the excitement and challenges of back-to-school season, especially for parents of teenage drivers. Ensuring your new driver is ready for the road is crucial for their safety and your peace of mind. Here are some tips to help make the transition smoother and safer for everyone.

Summer is the perfect time to ensure your truck or SUV is ready for any adventure, and DeBoer's Auto has an incredible offer to help you do just that. From July 1st to August 31st, 2024, purchase four qualifying light truck or SUV Continental tires and receive a $110 Visa® Prepaid Card by mail*.

Why Choose Continental Tires?
Continental tires are engineered for the toughest conditions. Tested from the scorching Texas desert to the frigid Arctic circle, these premium tires deliver superior traction, durability, and grip on all surfaces. Whether you’re navigating highways, dirt roads, gravel paths, or grassy fields, Continental tires provide the confidence and performance you need.