343 N. Battlefield Blvd Chesapeake, VA 23320 757-410-2400

Great Bridge History and Facts

We have so much history right here in Great Bridge.  Our team here at Back Roads Automotive wants to be a part of our growth and history also.  Many of us live, shop and plan to be here for many years.  

Here's some fun facts;

Great Bridge played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War!  Our kids learn about it in school but here's a reminder.  The original bridge can be traced to maps and records dating to 1770.  It was 40 yards long and crossed a creek from the southern branch of the Elizabeth River.  Five years later, the Battle of Great Bridge took place just six months after the outbreak of hostilities at Lexington and Concord on December 9, 1775, and it was a pivotal victory for the American patriots.  The patriots, led by Colonel William Woodford, successfully defended the bridge against British forces under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Samuel Leslie. The British suffered significant casualties, while the American losses were minimal. 

Did you know?  The Great Dismal Swamp Canal was hand dug and opened in 1805.  It was widened and deepened to accommodate larger steam vessels in the 1820's.  The Albermarle and Chesapeake Canal was completed in 1859.  Today... It's the Intracoastal Waterway!

A few years later, our waterway was crucial for getting supplies to the Confederates during the civil war.  The Union worked hard to blockade it.  The famous Battle of the Monitor and Merrimack took place right here in Hampton Roads in 1862.  


Today, the Great Bridge Lock can hold up to 20 boats at a time while four sets of gates and valves are used to protect water quality.  On one side of the lock, freshwater flows from the Currituck Sound in North Carolina.  On the other side, salty water flows from the Elizabeth River fed by the Chesapeake Bay.  Most plants and animals are suited for either fresh or saltwater.  Not both because the mix caused harm to the ecosystem.  In 1932 a special guard lock was created to protect the environment and allow boat transportation.  It's still in use today. 

Our current Bridge was constructed in 2004 and has daily traffic or approximately 35,000 vehicles!  

The Locks park offers a playground, picnic tables, barbecue grills and a boat ramp.  Many people like to fish and crab there as well. 

We have great walking trails and a wonderful Museum/Visitor Center packed with history to revisit.  It's also the site of events year-round.  

Our Back Roads Automotive team loves the Great Bridge/Hickory community and we are expanding!  So, whether it's Moyock, Currituck, Elizabeth City, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Portsmouth and many other Tidewater neighborhoods, we want to help. Finding a great quality, low price vehicle can be difficult but call us.  We are THE place to shop!  

Being Upside Down In Your Truck But With A Twist

It's More Than Meets The Eye!

Image Source: Pinterest

If you've ever owned a vehicle no doubt you been what's called upside down in your car. It's when you owe more that the vehicle is worth. Well Rick Sullivan, a mechanic from Clinton, Illinois, spent six months and $6,000 to bring this extraordinary concept to life. The inspiration struck him when he saw a Ford Ranger overturned in the snow. This sight sparked an idea: to create a vehicle that permanently looked like it was flipped over.

Building Process

  • Base Vehicle: The drivetrain of a '91 Ford Ranger.

  • Transformation: Stripping the Ranger's body and fitting an upside-down Ford F-150 body onto it.

This project required not just mechanical skills but also a creative vision, something that is often undervalued in the automotive world.

Community Reaction and Impact

The truck has become a local sensation, drawing attention and sparking conversations wherever it goes. Passersby are often initially confused, then delighted by the truck's design.

Need A New Car?

It may be fun to drive an truck that is literally upside down but not so much when you owe more on a vehicle than it's worth. Stop by today where you can find a car that not only meets your needs but also puts you on a more stable financial path. Remember, being "upside down" isn't a permanent state – with the right approach, you can turn it around and drive forward with confidence.

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Women's Influence In Shopping

 Here at Back Roads Automotive, we know women are a huge part of decision making when it comes to large family purchases.  A new vehicle is no different. That's why we offer a friendly atmosphere with time to look at different models with no hassle.  A non-commissioned sales team means an honest no pressure environment.  Women shopping on their own is a growing trend here in Chesapeake and also across our nation.  


Our team looks through the lenses of female buyers to ensure we have great, quality vehicles with room to grow.  We know from our own families that cargo space, options and safety features are critical.  Baseball, football, soccer, cheerleading and all the other activities in Great Bridge and Hickory keep us on the move.  Every day, we show customers how our quality Back Roads cars, trucks and SUV's fit the bill.  


We know time is limited.  We've streamlined our research/purchase process so customers can tailor to what they need.  You can shop online anytime!

Sometimes people only have a few minutes after the hustle and bustle of life settles down at night.  See over 60 photos inside and out, check out the Car Fax for free, use our Loan Calculator to selet they best terms that fit your budget.  You can research, compare and feel good about the options you select. 

Have questions?  Talk with our salespeople and managers with any questions you have.  We can talk, text and e mail -whichever you are comfortable with.  

Ready to test drive?  We make that fun too.  You are in a safe environment with professional team members. Let us know the time you want and we will be ready.  We have convenient hours from 9-7 Monday through Saturday.  

Interested in "Fast Tracking" your financing?  We do that too.  We can talk you through the necessary information the lenders need along with a secure and private credit application. We have over 20 local banks and credit unions available for all kinds of budgets and credit histories.  

Then, our delivery process is super easy.  You sign and drive!  It's that simple.  We have real reviews from great customers who refer their friends and family.  Our team here at Back Roads Automotive knows online reviews play a significant role in influencing purchase decisions and we are grateful people take the time to recognize a job well done.  

Become one of our valued customers today!  Call us at 757.410.2400 to learn more. 



A Day In the Life of Our Dealership

It's important for customers to be informed.  Buying a purchase as large as a vehicle can take time.  We want to give our readers an insider's look into our store and how we operate.  It's very different!  It's not a traditional set up. 


Jay Sawyer who is our CEO/General Manager, has been in the automotive field his whole career and understands the value of community.  He is our buyer so he's actively involved in everyday operations.   He previews the vehicles customers want to sell to us and ones coming available at local auctions.  He checks out the vehicles he feels have the quality/pedigree that suits our Back Roads store.  Then he goes and checks them out in person to be sure it's a great vehicle. Because HE is the buyer and CEO, he truly works hard to get our customers the very best options.  


Next, how we service:  We utilize local shops right here in Great Bridge and Edinburg to ensure our vehicles pass Virginia State Inspection and have fresh oil changes.  By using third party service centers, we ensure integrity/transparency.  Plus, we support local business and their families in turn.  We have two technicians on staff to further inspect and repair vehicles that passed but aren't up to our quality standards.  


Once the vehicles are back, we professionally detail them inside and out.  Our team has the expertise to make every vehicle shine.  They handle door panels, carpets, headliners, smells and are phenomenal with paint.  They take pride and care to be sure our fleet is in great condition.  


After that...each vehicle is professionally photographed and we take over 50 photos to show every option/detail we can.  You can count on detailed descriptions and real photos that even show cosmetic or small issues.  We believe in honesty through the whole process.  Next, it's parked and highlighted on our website.  Within 24/48 hours, we are live on sites like Autotrader, Car Fax, True Car, Car Guru, Face Book and many others.  


My sales team helps customers in store or online with no problem.  Our salespeople don't make commission so there's no pressure to buy something YOU don't want.  It's hassle free and we offer appointments to expedite your time.  Did you know we ship cars, trucks and SUV's to other states?   We do!  We have a great transport company at our fingertips.  We sell quickly!  


Next is our awesome finance department.  With private/secure online credit applications, over 20 lender options and great terms, we can help.

Your contract is handled quickly!  We have a professional title clerk who helps customers with their DMV needs and we handle all the states.  In most cases, we can even issue hard plates at the time of delivery.  


Speaking of delivery ...it's fun and fast.  No more waiting at hours and hours at a dealer.  We streamline this process for our customers making it easy to get what they want.  And, we take photos of our happy customers to post to Face Book.  Our reviews are real and honest.  We aren't perfect but we LOVE what we do and supporting our community with charity, events and promotions helps to build our business.  Come see us at Back Roads Automotive today and see how great your next car buying experience can be!     





TireWheel Warranty Services

 We offer a Tire and Wheel Road Hazard Warranty that offers several benefits to you!  Here are some of the key advantages:



It's financial!  If you are a daily driver, you already know the roads here in Hampton Roads can be tricky.  Our warranty options provide financial coverage for repair or replacement of tires and wheels damaged by road hazards such as potholes, nails, glass, and debris. It helps save you money on unexpected repair costs.



Because Back Roads Automotive offers this coverage, you'll have peace of mind knowing you are protected against unforeseen damages caused by road hazards. This can also reduce your stress when it happens because of potential repair expenses.



Road hazard repairs or replacements can be expensive. Our warranty covers these costs, resulting in significant savings over time. Without the warranty, you would have to bear these expenses out of pocket.



You are covered!  You can quickly address issues without a significant disruption to your schedule.  We are all busy and it saves time. 



Talk to our business manager today about all the valuable programs we offer here at Back Roads Automotive - 757.410.2400! 

Buying Your First Car

Buying Your First Car

 

The excitement of buying and personalizing your first car is a memorable experience for many people including us. It represents a significant milestone and a sense of independence. Here at Back Roads Automotive, we love to help first time buyers get a great vehicle and create wonderful memories. Ones they will remember...like we do.  Check out our own memories below! 


Jay Sawyer, who is our CEO owned a 1988 White Jeep Cherokee and loved it.  Summertime at the beach with a 4 Wheel Drive SUV gave him freedom and independence to hit the road and break hearts.  No more riding with friends to get around.  He could explore new places here in Hampton Roads and all the way down to the outer banks.  


Jim Hayden is our Sales Manager and he had a 1972 Buick Lesabre that could fit eight friends!  Jokingly, he said he could fit four more in the trunk!  It was a beautiful dark Green with a vinyl top.  Riding in style was his game.  Jim said buying his first car was a big step into adulthood.  


Brian Korich is our Finance Manager, and he wins "most interesting".  He owned a 1976 White Datsun B210 Honey Bee Edition.  Boy, was it special with roll-up windows, no radio or AC.  But it did have a Black racing stripe!  He had moved two hours away, so his first memorable trip was back home to see is friends. 


Tammy Baker is our Controller.  Her first vehicle was a 1972 White Celica.  Super sporty at the time.  The car business is in her blood, and she was lucky to pick out her Celica from her family's lot.  What a great experience that must have been as a young woman getting your first vehicle.  

 

Paul Huffman, is in Sales and he drove a 1977 Red Trans Am.  Now, that was a cool ride!  The sheer thrill of having the car everyone knows due to the Smokey and the Bandit movie was undeniable. The anticipation of hopping in that fine ride and everyone admiring it was incredibly exciting as a teenager.  


Taylor Doyle is in Sales.  Buying his 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix GT in sleek Silver was the reward of his hard work.  Of course, it was fast, but Taylor said he was sure to obey ALL the traffic laws... LOL.  He said there was a sense of pride in being able to show off his new GT to friends and family and he put some miles on it for sure! 


Jeremy Ocheltree is in Sales, and he owned a 2003 Dodge SRT4.  He was sixteen and working his first job driving this fast car.  It was a manual transmission with a 4-cylinder turbo, 215 horsepower making the top speed 153 mph.  Wonder how he knows that?  Another fast driver we guess.  


Patty Mauf is our Title Clerk, and her first vehicle was a 1980 White Reliant K car.  It was big and square, and her friends nicknamed it the "box car".  She was in Madison South Dakota and drove it to neighboring towns and to the mall like most teens.  She had finicky headlights that pointed upwards and tricked the street lights sometimes.  Good memories with friends are what it's about.  


Matt C. is one of our Technicians. He's a car guy through and through.  He started out with a BMW that he said he hated!  Then switched to off road trucks and race cars.   In the years to come, your first car may hold a special place in your heart. Even if it's not the most luxurious or high-tech vehicle, the memories associated with your first car make it a sentimental possession.


Justin Onufrak is one of our Technicians and he had a great first memory.  His parents surprised him at Christmas with a 1988 White Chevrolet Celebrity topped with a big red bow.  He didn't even have his license yet, so it was very special.  He loved driving on the back roads with his friends and could fit quite a few of them into his car.  Justin has owned a lot of vehicles since then.  Now, he gets to share that love of automobiles and racing with his son!  


Troy McBee is our Digital Marketer and his parents surprised him with a Blue 1997 Ford F-250. He learned how to work on it over time and because he lived out west, he really took advantage of the mountains, snow and camping.  He drove it for quite some time and had a lot of fun exploring Casper Wyoming!  


Mary Anthony in Sales bought her Red 1982 Toyota SR5 on her own.  She quickly learned ownership costs money.  The new rims and tires were pricey!  Luckily her dad helped with that effort. There's joy in owning a vehicle, there's also a realization of maintenance, insurance, and other aspects to consider like back-to-back speeding tickets.  Even though the truck wasn't fast, the Suffolk police noticed it! 


Lorenzo Woods is in Detail and wins most vehicles at 18 years old with three!  A 1989 Nissan Sentra that was Black with silver rims, a Gray Nissan truck and of course a motorcycle.  They were tangible symbols of his hard work and ability to make important decisions at a very young age.  And he really enjoyed all three of them!


Arland Morrow is in Detail, and he had a 1977 Pontiac Grand Prix that was Brown with a vinyl top. The coolest feature was the driver's seat would turn when you wanted to get out.  It also had the fancy headlights.  He saved up to get it by working at McDonalds and then took it to Maryland for a road trip.  He worked hard to get what he wanted at a young age.  


Chase Morgan is our lot attendant, and he has an awesome 1996 Ford Bronco that is Black two tone.  His grandparents gave him his SUV making it even more special.  He enjoys taking it down to the outer banks and driving on the beach.  He is young now, but his Bronco will be remembered for many years! 


Remembering the excitement of buying your first car is a cherished memory for many, as it marks the beginning of a new chapter in life and the start of countless adventures on the road.

Benefits of working with your hometown dealer!

We love our small businesses right here in Great Bridge/Hickory!  They play a crucial role in supporting and contributing to local communities in various ways. 



We create jobs!  We are very proud of our team here at Back Roads Automotive and will continue to hire great, experienced people! 



Small businesses like ours contribute to the economic growth of Chesapeake. This results in increased spending and investment right here.



We are a part of the Community!  As your hometown dealer, we are more deeply connected to our neighbors, friends and associates.  We actively participate in local events like the Great Bridge Parade, sponsor community initiatives like the Harris Teeter cart advertisements and other charitable causes. 



We utilize services locally, helping to create a network of mutually beneficial relationships within our Great Bridge/Hickory/Chesapeake community. This enhances our overall quality of life. 

2 Wheel Drive Trucks Vs 4 Wheel Drive Trucks

What are the advantages of owning a 2 wheel drive pickup truck?

Well, for one, it can have an overall better capability than a 4 wheel drive truck. People often mistakenly think that because a 4 wheel drive truck can go off-road, that it is more capable. But in reality, a 2 wheel drive truck can do just as much if not more with the right configuration.

Towing Capacity

If you want the most tow capacity in any type of pickup truck, choose a 2-wheel drive truck. This is because a 2-wheel drive truck has a lower curb weight, but the same gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). This means that your payload capacity has increased because of this. A 4-wheel drive truck might give you 5500 lb payload capacity in a single rear wheel configuration, but you can go up to 7500 lb or more in a dual rear wheel configuration.

Generally speaking, the best trucks for towing are 2-wheel drive dually pickups. This is because they have more room for payload capacity and can handle heavier pin weights, which increases the total weight of a trailer that they can tow. For some people, a 2-wheel drive truck may be the best choice depending on what they are doing.

Fuel Economy

Another benefit of a 2 wheel drive vehicle is that it can get better fuel economy in some cases. You can see an improvement of up to 30% when you compare fuel economy between a 2 wheel and 4 wheel drive vehicle.

When you have a two-wheel drive configuration, it is much easier to move the truck due to rolling resistance. This is because there is less weight on each axle and there are fewer driveshafts and differentials that need to be driven. As a result, this can lead to better fuel economy as well.

Maintenance Costs

A 2-wheel drive vehicle has fewer parts that can break. This means there is less chance that something will go wrong with your car and you will have to spend money fixing it. Additionally, 4-wheel drive vehicles require additional electronics and controls, which can be expensive to maintain.

Benefits Of A 4 Wheel Drive Truck

The obvious benefit is that you can go off-road. This is the type of truck that is designed for people who want to take their vehicle camping, hiking or regularly have to go on unpaved roads. A 4x4 truck will have no problem getting through rough terrain that would stop a 2 wheel drive truck.

Traction - In poor weather conditions, a 4x4 truck will have much better traction than a 2 wheel drive. This is because the weight is evenly distributed over all four tires.

Climbing - If you need to go up a hill or incline, a 4x4 truck will be able to do it with ease.

Where going off road is not the primary purpose of the truck, it is used more in emergency situations such as bad weather or other natural disasters. When roads are closed or impassable, a 4x4 truck can provide the only means of getting around.

Resell Value

Generally speaking you're going to save by opting for a two-wheel drive version over 4 wheel drive version. However this will depend totally on the specific configuration you choose.

 

A four-wheel drive truck is a more desirable vehicle when it comes time to sell it or trade. It might have cost you a little bit more, but it is worth it in the end.

Unleashing the Joy

Introduction:

In the realm of automotive exhilaration, sports cars stand out as the epitome of driving pleasure. There is a huge following in Virgina for car shows and local events in Chesapeake. These sleek and stylish machines are not just means of transportation; they are an experience, a celebration of speed, agility, and unbridled fun. Let's take a joyride into the exciting world of fun sports cars.

  1. Mazda MX-5 Miata: The Roadster Icon:

The Mazda MX-5 Miata has long been hailed as an icon in the world of sports cars. Its lightweight design, precise handling, and responsive steering make every twist and turn of the road a thrilling adventure. Whether you're cruising along the coastline with the top down or navigating city streets, the MX-5 Miata is a testament to the sheer joy of driving.

  1. Porsche 911: Timeless Elegance, Unmatched Performance:

The Porsche 911 is a timeless classic that seamlessly blends elegance with high-performance capabilities. Renowned for its rear-engine design, distinctive silhouette, and precision engineering, the 911 delivers a driving experience that is both exhilarating and refined. It's a car that transcends generations, consistently setting the standard for sports car excellence.

  1. Ford Mustang: American Muscle, Iconic Style:

For those who crave a dose of American muscle, the Ford Mustang is an enduring symbol of power and style. With its aggressive stance, throaty exhaust note, and a range of powerful engine options, the Mustang roars onto the scene with a presence that's impossible to ignore. It's a sports car that embodies the spirit of the open road.

  1. Chevrolet Corvette: A Supercar for Every Enthusiast:

The Chevrolet Corvette has evolved over the years into a true supercar, offering a perfect blend of speed, style, and cutting-edge technology. The latest models boast mid-engine configurations, delivering a driving experience that rivals some of the most exotic cars on the market. The Corvette is a statement of American engineering prowess and a testament to the pursuit of automotive perfection.

  1. Audi TT: Cutting-Edge Design, Everyday Fun:

The Audi TT combines cutting-edge design with everyday usability. Its distinctive exterior, innovative technology, and spirited performance make it a sports car that's equally at home on a winding mountain road or navigating city traffic. The TT proves that fun behind the wheel doesn't have to come at the expense of comfort and practicality.

Conclusion:

In the realm of sports cars, the pursuit of fun is paramount. Whether you're drawn to the timeless charm of the Mazda MX-5 Miata, the raw power of the Ford Mustang, or the sophisticated performance of the Porsche 911, there's a sports car to suit every taste and driving preference. So, buckle up, hit the ignition, and let the road become your playground as you experience the sheer joy and excitement that come with driving these fun sports cars.


I Can See Clearly Now The Fog Is Gone

The Safe Way to Defog Your Windshield

Driving with a clear view is not just a matter of convenience; it's a critical safety necessity. A fogged-up windshield can transform an ordinary drive into a perilous endeavor, significantly increasing the risk of accidents. When visibility drops, so does your ability to respond to road conditions and hazards.

We'll dive into the science behind windshield fog and offer practical, safety-first techniques to ensure you maintain the clearest view possible. Whether you're facing the early morning chill or the humid evening return from work, understanding how to quickly and safely defog your windshield is key to a safe journey. Let's clear things up.

Understanding Windshield Fog

Why Windshields Fog Up:
Imagine your vehicle as a contained climate system. The warm air, cozy from your car’s heating system or simply from passengers, confronts the cold surface of the glass and rapidly cools down, shedding its moisture as condensation. This process results in a fine mist of droplets clinging to the inside of your windshield, scattering light and obscuring your view.

Understanding the Risks:
Compromised visibility due to fogged glass is a serious safety hazard. Inadequate visibility means you are less likely to notice pedestrians, other vehicles, and road signs in time to react appropriately. It's essential for the safety of yourself and others to maintain a clear windshield and ensure full visibility at all times.

Preventative Measures

Anticipating fog before it happens can help you maintain a clear windshield and improve safety. Here are some measures to prevent your windshield from fogging:

Ventilate Your Vehicle:
To prevent condensation, it’s beneficial to allow the interior of your car to ventilate, especially overnight. Leaving your windows slightly open can balance the inside and outside temperatures, reducing the likelihood of fog formation.

Regular Maintenance Checks:

  • Cabin Air Filters: Keep your cabin air filters clean to ensure adequate airflow, which is vital for effective defogging.

  • HVAC System: Regular checks on your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system can help prevent fogging by ensuring it operates efficiently.

Pre-emptive Climate Control:
Before exiting your vehicle, switch to fresh air mode to expel moist air and cool the interior, reducing the chance of fogging when the vehicle is next used.

Defogging Techniques for Safety

When faced with a fogged windshield, you need to act fast, but always with safety in mind. Here’s what to do:

  1. Start Your Engine: Before driving, start your car and begin the defrost cycle to enhance visibility.

  2. Use the Defroster: Engage the defroster to warm the windshield and evaporate condensation.

  3. Adjust the Airflow: Direct vents towards the windshield and side windows to disperse the fog.

  4. Temperature Settings: Adjust the temperature to match the exterior conditions—warm to counteract cold, cool for warmth.

  5. Activate the A/C: Use the air conditioning to dehumidify the cabin and clear the fog faster.

  6. Turn Off Recirculation: Switch off the recirculation to allow dry outside air to enter the vehicle.

Safety Tips While Defogging:

  • Do Not Drive Blindly: Ensure at least partial visibility before starting to drive and pull over if visibility is impaired while driving.

  • Use Wipers: Utilize your windshield wipers to clear external condensation.

  • Window Cracking Technique: Slightly open windows to balance the internal and external climate, aiding the defogging process.

  • Manual Wiping: If necessary, use a clean microfiber cloth to manually clear the fog.

  • Regular Cleaning: Maintain a clean windshield to prevent excessive fogging.

Remember, arriving safely is more important than arriving on time. It's better to delay your trip momentarily than to drive with obscured visibility.

Choosing the Right Products

Using the appropriate products is crucial for effective defogging and safety. Here are some recommendations:

  • Anti-Fog Solutions: Opt for automotive-specific products like Stoner Invisible Glass Anti-Fog or Rain-X Anti-Fog, which prevent moisture build-up on the glass.

  • Cleaning Solutions: Use automotive glass cleaners designed for vehicle interiors that do not leave residues.

  • Cloths and Tools: Employ microfiber cloths for their lint-free and streak-free properties, and keep a squeegee handy for quick moisture removal.

Safety Considerations:

  • Test products on a small area of the glass to ensure they do not obstruct visibility.

  • Confirm that the products used do not interfere with windshield sensors or cameras, especially in vehicles with ADAS.

 

Be proactive in maintaining your vehicle's defogging capabilities. Keep the necessary tools on hand, regularly check your car's systems, and pull over if your visibility is compromised. Remember, safe driving is not just about reacting to conditions; it's about being prepared for them. Drive safely, stay visible, and enjoy the clarity of your journey.