Let Back Roads Automotive help you and your teen find the right car at the right price.  We have plenty of budget friendly choices.  We are your hometown dealer and work hard to make every teen’s first car memorable all the while ensuring the parents’ needs are also met.  We have bows, take pics for social media, make it fun and informative so they feel comfortable.  Here at Back Roads, they can drive different makes/models and test out the safety features.  There are plenty of roads here in Great Bridge/Hickory where they can drive at their comfort level.  We know they face unique challenges on the road due to their limited driving experience and maturity level.  Read more about our first cars and the memories we have.  Our team had fun reminiscing about our first car in a previous blog.

Here are some tips for teen drivers:

Make sure to enroll your teens into a driver's education program and be a great example as they watch you.  They may look at us and think maybe they can handle several things at one time.  Work with your teen to avoid distractions. Remind them to never text or use a cell phone while driving.

Practice makes progress!  Spend plenty of time practicing driving.  Start in low-traffic areas and gradually progress to more challenging driving conditions.  Day and night drives are both important. 

Limit other distractions, such as eating, drinking, or adjusting the radio, to maintain focus on the road.

Ensure they always wear a seatbelt and that all passengers do the same.

Keep reminding them to adhere to posted speed limits and adjust their speed according to road and weather conditions.

Keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you to allow for adequate reaction time.

Lastly, establish Clear Rules and Consequences.  Set clear rules and consequences for unsafe driving behavior, such as speeding, reckless driving, or distracted driving. 

Thank you to the hundreds of families who entrusted us to help their teen with their first car.  We love what we do!  

Car Names That Make You Do a Double Take

Have you ever met someone whose name just didn’t fit them? Cars are no different. Some models have names that leave you scratching your head—or laughing out loud. From quirky choices like the AMC Gremlin to overly descriptive ones like the Isuzu GIGA 20 Light Dump, these cars prove that branding can be a bumpy ride. Let’s explore some of the most mismatched names in automotive history.

1. Quirky or Silly Names

Some car names sound like they were meant for something other than a car—maybe a pet, a drink, or even a household chore. These names are as puzzling as they are funny.

• AMC Gremlin: A compact car from the 1970s with a name that practically begged for jokes. It’s hard not to picture little gremlins tinkering under the hood, especially after the Gremlins movie came out in 1984, cementing the connection between the car and chaotic mischief. Coincidence? Maybe, but the name certainly didn’t help its reputation for reliability.

• Plymouth Duster: A sporty coupe with a name that sounds more suited for cleaning shelves than burning rubber. It’s hard to imagine someone saying, “I’ll take the Duster!” without thinking about a household chore.

• Suzuki Cappuccino: Cute, compact, and zippy—just like a shot of espresso. But imagine pulling up to your friends and saying, “I just bought a Cappuccino!” They’d think you went to a café instead of a dealership.

• Subaru Brat: Rugged and capable, but calling a car “Brat” seems like a strange branding choice. Did it really want to be seen as annoying or spoiled?

• Daihatsu Charade: A name that unintentionally suggests it’s faking being a real car. Not exactly confidence-inspiring!

2. Overly Descriptive or Too Corporate

These names sound like they came straight out of a spec sheet—or a boardroom. They’re so literal or formal that it’s hard to imagine anyone saying them with a straight face.

• Nissan Friend-ME: This concept car feels like a social media plea in car form. “Friend-ME” might’ve aimed to connect with millennials, but it just ended up sounding awkward.

• Chrysler TC by Maserati: The name makes sure you know it’s fancy, but in trying so hard to impress, it feels more like a corporate memo than a car.

• Isuzu GIGA 20 Light Dump: This truck’s name is so literal, it’s comical. Imagine saying, “I drive a Light Dump.” Yeah, no.

• Mazda Titan Dump: Another truck name that sounds more like construction equipment than a vehicle for the road.

• Nissan Big Thumb: was a heavy-duty truck introduced in the early 1990s. It was designed for commercial use, particularly for long-haul and freight applications. 

3. Names That Tried Too Hard

Sometimes, car names aim for big ideas but fall short—or worse, give off completely the wrong impression.

• Chevrolet Citation: This name might’ve been aiming for authority, but all it did was remind people of speeding tickets. Not a great association for a car.

• Ford Probe: A sporty coupe with a name that sounded more clinical than exciting. Let’s just say it didn’t inspire visions of the open road.

• Hyundai Scoupe: A mash-up of “sporty” and “coupe” that ended up as clunky as the car’s design.

• AMC Pacer: Practical, yes, but the name lacked excitement. It sounds more like a piece of exercise equipment than a car.

• Triumph Mayflower: Historical, but not exactly thrilling. It’s hard to imagine the Mayflower inspiring speed or adventure on the road.

4. Cultural or Linguistic Missteps

Sometimes, a name works in one language but misses the mark—or gets completely lost—in another.

• Chevrolet Nova: The classic example of a name that didn’t translate well in Spanish-speaking markets, where “no va” means “it doesn’t go.”

• Mitsubishi Minica Lettuce: Yes, lettuce. Naming a car after salad ingredients isn’t exactly inspiring.

• Toyota Deliboy: A practical delivery van, but the name sounds more like a sandwich mascot than a vehicle.

• Nissan Cedric: Great for an uncle, not so much for a car. It’s hard to imagine anyone saying, “Check out my new Cedric!”

• Subaru FF-1 Star: Too technical and forgettable, this name didn’t do much to spark excitement.

• Yugo Florida: A random geographic name that didn’t add much appeal to a car that needed all the help it could get.

What’s in a Name?

To borrow a line from Shakespeare: “A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” But would a car by any other name sell as well? Probably not. After all, it’s hard to picture anyone rushing to buy a “Friend-ME” or proudly telling their friends, “I drive a Big Thumb.”

From the mischievous Gremlin to the frothy Cappuccino, these names prove that branding matters—sometimes more than the car itself. While they might not have lived up to their names, they’ve left a legacy of laughs and head-scratching moments.

Thankfully, car names have come a long way, often reflecting the personality and purpose of the vehicle. Whether you’re looking for something adventurous, practical, or bold, today’s options are designed to fit your lifestyle seamlessly. Explore our full inventory to find one that’s perfect for you—name and all.

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We are your hometown dealer right here in Great Bridge/Hickory!  Our Back Roads Automotive team plays a crucial role in supporting and contributing everyday. We are deeply connected to our neighbors, friends and associates.  You will see us around town as well as our loaner car and Yellow Truck. 

Our local high schools always need help and we sponsor FOUR of them! You'll see our Back Roads Automotive logo on the fields and in the gyms.

We do quarterly photo shoots for free for local families and post some of them to our Face Book page. Check it out!

Restaurants here in town get a boost from us every Saturday because we buy a huge team lunch.

We create jobs!  We are very proud of our team and will continue to hire great, experienced people!  85% of our employees live in Chesapeake. 

All our vehicles are serviced at local shops so that helps many Chesapeake families. Firestone, Great Bridge Muffler & Brake, Bells Mill Auto Care, window tint, radio shops, body shops etc. are just a few of the businesses boosted by our vehicle sales.

So, when you buy from our small company, you are not helping a CEO buy a third vacation home. You are helping an employee's daughter get karate lessons, a dad get his son's soccer team jerseys, a family put good food on the table or pay a mortgage. Our customers are our shareholders, and THEY are the ones we strive to make happy.

Thank you for supporting local businesses!

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. 

Fall is here and you can especially feel it today!  If you are like us here at Back Roads Automotive, you are happy to have the kids settled at school, enjoy some cooler temperatures, and get ready for a beautiful autumn here in Chesapeake.  We are lucky to be so close to the mountains and the beach.  Even the outer banks in North Carolina is a fun destination after summer.  Way less traffic too!

Here’s some things to get you in the mood for some fall fun!

Our team here loves to eat and share recipes.  My personal favorite is old fashioned sweet potato pie.  But pretty much anything pumpkin, with apples, and spices are great. You can’t go wrong with comfort foods and baked goods.

Fall activities like hiking, apple picking, or visiting pumpkin patches are within easy reach.

Time for us to unpack our Back Roads winter gear. 

Halloween is coming and we get spooky!  We love to decorate, and you may even see our skeletons sitting around doing nothing! Don’t forget your autumn-themed decorations, including DIY projects.

Don’t forget to stay healthy during the colder months, including nutrition and self-care.

We are thankful for our great community here in Chesapeake, Moyock, Currituck and the whole Tidewater area.  We love what we do and appreciate each and every one of you who shopped with us.  We look forward to helping you, your family, friends, and co-workers.   Lastly, be grateful for a fun and safe summer and take a minute to enjoy fall!

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.  

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.  

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.

 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! 

Are you shopping online? So are our customers! Mary Anthony is our internet manager and responds to hundreds of inquiries from all over the U.S.  We have quality (and sometimes specialty) vehicles that many people are looking for outside of Hampton Roads.  We’ve helped customers as far as Montana and even a military family from Hawaii! Google reviews from our own customers prove the great experiences they are having.

Our website is super easy to use.  It is updated several times daily with current inventory.  Each vehicle has over 50+ professional photos showing the exact condition.  Because we are a Car Fax Dealer…we offer a free Car Fax at the bottom of each listing.  Many of our vehicles are one owner, with no accidents and in great condition so they will last.  We use marketing software to price our vehicles based on a 250 mile radius for quality and value.  Our goal is to be in the top 5. Mary helps customers navigate that information while they research.  Using the filters and sort options, we can help you find what you want fast. 

We engage conversations the way customers feel comfortable.  We offer chat, e-mail, social media, and of course over the phone and in person conversation's about your needs. Some customers want to come in now so we set appointments if possible.  We want to be ready.  Others may take days, weeks or even months to decide and Mary can help provide updates as they take their time. 

Technology is important.  We offer 20 local lenders to make financing easy. Our safeguards are in place for financial/deal information.  We have a full-time professional title clerk who helps customers get registered in their home state. 

We are on the cutting edge of analytics and reporting to be sure we provide the relevant info customers need.  Real time market averages, reviews, wish list vehicles and updated website links help make data-driven decisions easier.

Would you like more detailed information on any of these topics?  Call us today at 757.410.2400 and ask for Mary!

Here at Back Roads Automotive…it’s been a very busy summer.  We have sold a lot of local families their vehicles and seen them around Great Bridge, Hickory and Moyock/Currituck.  We’ve had customers come up from the outer banks too!  August is a busy time for most families.  Some are getting little ones prepared for their first big day at school, making plans for last minute family trips or sending older ones away to college.  Lots of planning, activities and emotions going on.  Our team here at Back Roads Automotive understands everyone’s needs, budget and timelines are very different.  

There’s some fun end of summer activities around town.  The average August weather is 86 degrees in the day and 73 degrees at night.  So, there’s plenty of times to enjoy with friends and family.

Greenbrier Farms Summer Bash is coming up on August 25^th.  Snow Cones, Carnival Games, DJ and more.  Come out and support local vendors and businesses like we do!

Who doesn’t like good food and the beauty of nature?  Food Truck Fridays at Northwest River Park.  Take the family for an outdoor adventure!  Or get a great dessert at Bergey’s Breadbasket.  We have a lot of local farms right here in our area. 

Luke Bryant is coming to Heritage Park on Sept. 20^th.  It promises to be a great time!  Many of us are going so we’ll see you there! 

Don’t let the rainy days get you down.  Hit the movies!  Cinema Café at Edinburg is the perfect place to get inside and enjoy a movie.  Or, you can take a ride down to the outer banks. 

Have you seen our Back Roads Yellow Truck or Courtesy Loaner car around town?  We were just at the sunflower field at Greenbrier Farms!  There are always some great car shows happening as well.

We want to thank our community for the support we’ve had.  We look forward to helping many more local families find the right vehicle for their needs.  Fast, easy terms with great lenders and the best part…our salespeople don’t make commission, so it’s hassle free and fun to shop all the models you love.  Stop by and see us today or visit our inventory page!

Is There One Thing About Your Car You'd Change?

Like most drivers, we have been ingrained to change the oil in your car every 3,000 miles. But today’s engines and synthetic oils have changed the game. That means you might be able to let those miles roll by a little longer before you’re due for another oil change. So, let’s take a look at what it really means to go the extra mile with your oil.

Do You Really Need an Oil Change Every 3,000 Miles?

For years, 3,000 miles has been the go-to benchmark, but advancements in synthetic oil mean some cars can go much longer between changes. Unlike conventional oil, which can break down more quickly, synthetic oil is designed to handle higher temperatures, resist sludge buildup, and protect your engine over longer distances. That’s why many cars running on synthetic oil can go 7,500, 10,000, or even 15,000 miles between oil changes, depending on the make and model. Always check your car manufacturer's recommendations to make sure you’re using the correct oil type for your vehicle.

Quick Tip:

Before you leave the oil change shop, check the mileage sticker they’ve put on your windshield. It’s often set to the 3,000-mile mark out of habit—even if you’re using synthetic oil that could last far longer. It never hurts to double-check that the recommendation matches the type of oil your car actually uses!

Mileage Reminders: Are They Accurate?

Most newer cars have built-in mileage reminders for oil changes, but are they set specifically for the kind of oil you’re using? The short answer: not always. Many mileage reminders are based on a conventional oil schedule, so if you’re using synthetic, it’s worth looking into whether that reminder can be adjusted.

If you’re not sure, ask your car manufacturer or dealership if your car’s reminder can be calibrated for synthetic oil. And if it can’t, don’t worry—just keep track of your oil type and recommended change intervals to stay on top of it. It’s one extra step, but it ensures you’re getting the best performance from your car.

Resetting the Oil Change Reminder

If you’ve recently switched to synthetic or just want to reset your oil change reminder, many cars make it easy to do. For most models, you can find instructions in the owner’s manual, or you can search online for a quick walk-through. Generally, resetting is as simple as pressing a few buttons on the dashboard. But if you’re ever unsure, your dealership or mechanic can easily handle it for you.

When Going the Extra Mile Means… Finding a New Ride

So, you’ve mastered the art of oil changes, synthetic vs. conventional, and mileage reminders. But sometimes, no amount of maintenance can turn back the clock on an aging car. When repairs start piling up or your car just isn’t as dependable as it used to be, it might be time to think about an upgrade.

And that’s where we come in—to help you find a car that fits your needs, lifestyle, and budget perfectly. Think of us as your personal pit crew, ready to go the extra mile to make sure your trade-in is seamless and enjoyable. Because finding the right ride shouldn’t just be about reaching your destination—it should be about enjoying every mile along the way.

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