Spanish Fork Auto Repair

Once a year we are required to get an emissions test and register our vehicles in Utah County, but your check engine light is on.  Here at Dickerson Automotive we have been advised but the Utah County Health Department  to always start with an emissions test even if that vehicle is going to fail. Why is it that we would want to start with a test that is not going to pass? There are a couple reasons why we would want to start with a failed test.  The manufacturer is responsible for light duty vehicles to pass emissions within the first 2 years and under 24,000 miles. There are also 3 major components covered for 8 years or 80,000 miles. So, if there is a chance it is covered by warranty we would need to send you to the dealer. On occasion the repairs completed did not influence the check engine light or you have spent at least $450 dollars, and the check engine light remains on did not reduce the pollution levels below standard, you would be able to apply for a waiver a ... read more

    Is your car idling rough, causing the engine to shake or vibrate unusually when it’s supposed to be running smoothly? Rough idling can be a sign of several underlying issues, and understanding these can help you diagnose and address the problem effectively. Here, we’ll explore some common causes of rough idling and how to fix them, based on insights from Sprint Motorsports.    1. Poor Airflow or Bad Airflow Sensor A car's engine needs a precise air-to-fuel ratio to run smoothly. If there's an issue with the airflow, such as a clogged air filter or a faulty mass airflow sensor, it can cause the engine to idle rough. The mass airflow sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine and helps determine the right amount of fuel to inject. If this sensor is malfunctioning, it can lead to an incorrect air-fuel mixture, resulting in rough idling.   Solution: Check and replace the air filter if it’s dirty. If the problem persis ... read more

Encountering the pungent aroma of gasoline inside your car can be disconcerting, hinting at potential issues with your vehicle. In this article, we'll explore common reasons behind the gasoline smell and strategies to remedy the situation. 1. Fuel Leaks: A prominent cause of gas odor is fuel leakage, which can originate from various components like the fuel tank, lines, or injectors. Even minor leaks emit vapors, permeating the car's interior. Promptly addressing any suspected leaks is vital, given the safety hazards and potential engine damage they pose. 2. Excessive Fuel: Overfilling your fuel tank can lead to spillage, with excess fuel accumulating in the charcoal canister or emission system. This surplus fuel emits a persistent gas scent. To prevent this, avoid topping off your tank and cease refilling once the nozzle clicks off. 3. Malfunctioning Fuel System Parts: Components such as the fuel pressure regulator, injector seals, or tank vent valve may develop leaks or ma ... read more

Vehicles are more than just a means of transportation; they are complex machines equipped with advanced technology designed to make our journeys safer, more efficient, and enjoyable. With this complexity comes the need for a sophisticated approach to maintenance and repair, known as auto diagnostics.  Understanding Auto Diagnostics Auto diagnostics involve using specialized tools and software to communicate with a vehicle's computer system, which monitors and controls operations such as engine performance, transmission, brakes, and more. When a potential issue arises, the system generates a specific error code, stored until diagnostics are run. This process allows mechanics to quickly identify and address problems, often before they lead to more significant damage or safety concerns. The Role of the Onboard Diagnostic System (OBD) ... read more

What are signs of a leaking heater core?  Windows fog up when you turn on the vehicle, coolant on the floorboards, heater not working. A heater core can be a large repair as it is located behind the dash. A heater core is a crucial component of a vehicle's heating and cooling system. It is a small radiator-like device located in the passenger compartment of the vehicle, typically behind the dashboard. The primary purpose of the heater core is to provide heat to the interior of the vehicle by utilizing the engine's coolant system. The heater core consists of a network of small tubes or passages that carry hot coolant from the engine. These tubes are often made of brass or aluminum, which are good conductors of heat. The hot coolant flows through these tubes, and as air passes over the exterior surface of the heater core, the heat is transferred from the tubes to the air. This heated air is then directed into the cabin to warm the interior of the vehicle, providing comfort ... read more