Category Archives: Car Care & DIY Tips

Why Using Quality Auto Parts Matters for Vehicle Performance and Longevity

Why Using Quality Auto Parts Matters for Vehicle Performance and Longevity

Why Using Quality Auto Parts Matters for Vehicle Performance and Longevity When it comes to professional auto repair, one of the most important factors in long-term vehicle health is the quality of the parts used. While cheaper replacement parts may seem like a cost-saving option upfront, they often lead to reduced performance, frequent repairs, and higher costs over time. At Dickerson Automotive, we believe that using high-quality auto parts is essential to delivering reliable, long-lasting repairs you can trust. Improved Reliability and Vehicle Performance High-quality auto parts are designed to meet or exceed manufacturer specifications, ensuring dependable performance and consistent operation. Whether it’s brake components, spark plugs, suspension parts, or engine components, quality parts help your vehicle run smoothly and efficiently. Low-grade parts can wear out quickly or fail prematurely, increasing t ... read more

Important Update on Emissions Testing in Utah County (2026)

Important Update on Emissions Testing in Utah County (2026)

🚗 Important Update on Emissions Testing in Utah County (2026) 🌿 Starting in 2026, emissions testing in Utah County and other nearby counties will become more comprehensive as air quality programs work to meet stricter environmental standards. Vehicle emissions testing has long been required in Salt Lake, Davis, Weber, Utah, and Cache Counties to help reduce air pollution and ensure vehicles meet state and federal requirements. https://airquality.utahcounty.gov/faq?utm_source=chatgpt.com These inspections involve checking your vehicle’s emissions system and on-board diagnostic (OBD) communications to confirm they are functioning properly before you can renew your registration. As these programs evolve and ... read more

Understanding Your Alignment Readings

Understanding Your Alignment Readings

Understanding Your Alignment Readings When your shop hands you an alignment printout, do you really know what all those numbers and terms mean—or do you just notice the Christmas colors of red and green? Most of us understand that red means bad and green means good, but what exactly do those colors represent? Let’s break down the three main terms you’ll see on your alignment report: caster, camber, and toe.Caster   Caster measures how far forward or backward the steering axis tilts compared to the vertical axis of the wheel. It affects steering stability, steering effort, and how well your vehicle tracks straight down the road. Positive caster helps keep your steering wheel centered and improves high-speed stability. Negative caster makes steering feel lighter but ... read more

When Car “Bling” Causes Big Problems – Why Decorative Ignition Rings Can Leave You Stranded

When Car “Bling” Causes Big Problems – Why Decorative Ignition Rings Can Leave You Stranded

When Car “Bling” Causes Big Problems – Why Decorative Ignition Rings Can Leave You Stranded Some drivers like to keep their vehicles just the way they are. Others enjoy adding a little “bling” to make their ride stand out. But one popular decorative accessory can cause serious — and hard-to-diagnose — problems: metallic ignition rings. Recently, we had a vehicle towed into our shop that would start, run for a second, and then shut off. The customer had multiple keys, but the same thing happened with each one. The security light was flashing, which told us the anti-theft system was active. Our technician removed the steering column cover to check the wiring and connections — everything looked fine. But there was still no communication between the key and the car’s security system ... read more

April is National Car Care Month: Essential Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Vehicle Running Smoothly

April is National Car Care Month: Essential Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Vehicle Running Smoothly

As winter fades and spring emerges, April brings not only warmer weather but also National Car Care Month—a timely reminder to ensure your vehicle is in top condition for the seasons ahead. Regular maintenance not only enhances safety but also extends the lifespan of your car and can prevent costly repairs down the line. Key Areas to Focus On During National Car Care Month:Tire Maintenance Your tires are the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road, making their upkeep crucial. Regularly inspect them for proper pressure, tread depth, and signs of wear or damage. Maintaining correct tire pressure ensures optimal fuel efficiency and handling. Additionally, scheduling annual wheel alignments can prevent uneven wear and prolong tire life. Oil Changes Engine oil lubricates moving parts, reduces friction, and helps keep the engine clean. Changing your vehicle's oil at recommended intervals is cru ... read more