Yearly Archives: 2022

Lack Of Engine Power? Strange Rattle From The Engine?

Lack Of Engine Power? Strange Rattle From The Engine?

Lack Of Engine Power? Strange Rattle From The Engine? There are several reasons a vehicle will lack power when trying to accelerate. Today however were going to talk about lifters and how they can contribute to a lack of power when they aren't working properly.There are some warning signs that can be indicators of a bad lifter such as a rattling or ticking noise, misfire condition, or a check engine light. The most common indicators of a bad lifter are abnormal noises coming from the engine compartment and or a check engine light. So what does a lifter do? Lifters work directly with what is called the camshaft. The camshaft is a long piece of metal with some raised up sections called lobes. As the camshaft rotates the lobes make contact with the lifter and pushes the lifter up or down depending on camshaft location. When a lifter is moving up and down the valves inside the cylinder head are opening and closing allowing air and fuel into ... read more

Do You Need to Change Power Steering Fluid?

Do You Need to Change Power Steering Fluid?

If your car has a hydraulic power steering system, it has power steering fluid. The power steering fluid lubricates all the parts in the power steering system ensuring smooth and optimal movement as well as minimal wear and tear. Power steering fluid changes are not typically included in the regular maintenance checklist. So, do you need to replace the power steering fluid? Read on to find out. Steering Issues Power steering is meant to improve your steering. If you encounter issues with your steering, it signifies a problem with the steering and possibly, the power steering fluid. You should begin by adding the power steering fluid as low levels may cause problems in the steering system. If that does not suffice, try replacing the liquid as it may be contaminated. Contaminations will affect steering and damage parts of the power steering system. Leaks It is essential to check the power steering levels every month. Your power steering warning light is a great indication to check ... read more

What Does Transmission Fluid Do?

What Does Transmission Fluid Do?

If you didn't know already, your transmission is a vast system responsible for carrying the power generated by your engine to your car's wheels. It is a hydraulic system, which means it depends on a fluid to carry out its function (transmission fluid). The liquid is similar to engine oil for the engine; it is intended to keep the transmission system parts cool and lubricated to prevent damage. If your fluid becomes dirty and ineffective, your vehicle will take a significant amount of transmission damage. Transmission fluid is usually pink or red, and it passes through the system from the impeller to the turbine. Here are all the wonderful things it does for your car: Allows you to shift gears Provides hydraulic pressure Lubricates transmission parts Acts as a layer or barrier between moving components  It helps the clutch engage when needed Prevents wear, rust, and corrosion to important components Like the engine, the transmission endures a lot of strain. As a res ... read more

5 Signs It's Time for a Wheel Alignment

5 Signs It's Time for a Wheel Alignment

Maintaining your vehicle's performance at its peak requires proper wheel alignment. Wheel alignments unfortunately can be overlooked in favor of other maintenance procedures like oil changes and fluid top-offs. Driving a car that is out of alignment can be risky since it might be challenging to control. In addition to being difficult to drive, your automobile will wear out its tires more quickly than one that is perfectly aligned. Here are 5 indicators that a wheel alignment is necessary. The steering wheel of your car ought to be level and centered while you are traveling along a straight, level road. Your car requires an alignment if you notice that your steering wheel is slanted in one way. Your steering wheel should automatically revert to the center after you are through turning. Your car might need to be aligned if the steering wheel doesn't attempt to revert to the center position. It may be time for an adjustment if you find your car pulling to one side while you ... read more

Celebrate October Fall Car Care Month With Dickerson Automotive!

Celebrate October Fall Car Care Month With Dickerson Automotive!

Several maintenance items can go a long way toward improving your vehicle’s safety, performance, and longevity during the fall. With autumn finally here in Utah, the weather will cool down and the leaves will change colors. Fall weather tends to bring about many challenges for our automobiles. To avoid unwanted breakdowns or accidents, we recommend taking care of these 10 maintenance items to make sure your car is fit for the road.    In fact, October is Fall Car Care Month anyway. Show your vehicle some love, and it’ll treat you in return.  Here are our top 10 maintenance tips to follow! Top off vehicle fluids. Your vehicle relies on many different fluids, including motor oil, power steering fluid, brake fluid, transmission fluid, antifreeze/coolant, and even windshield washer fluid. At Dickerson Automotive, our team can take care of inspecting and refilling your fluids. We’ll even check for leaks too. Inspect belts and hoses. These are some of you ... read more