Spanish Fork Auto Repair

Before we get into everything else, first you have to know what an alternator is. We can explain in detail, but let's leave mechanical talk to the specialists at the shop. Here is a simple explanation. When your engine is working, one or more pulleys are connected to it. These pulleys transfer mechanical energy using belts or chains to the surrounding components that need it. One of the main ones is the alternator. It converts mechanical energy to electricity, charging the battery. This is the main supply of electricity the battery gets, and if it fails, curtain signs occur - here are some of them, so you know when to go to the repair shop to save up on future headaches. 1. Battery Light Turns On The main reason for your car's battery light to come on is not a bad charge, but a faulty alternator. When there is no energy going in and a lot going out, the result is a loss of charge. This happens when the alternator doesn't charge the battery. It can be caus ... read more

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/gqABdESPnFQ   Why does my car make a rattling noise when started? Rattling on cold start up is usually an indication of a timing chain issue. Timing chains synchronize the crankshaft and camshafts so they rotate at the proper time for the engine to run properly. The example vehicle we have today has 2 camshafts per cylinder head one for the intake stroke and one for the exhaust stroke totaling in four camshafts. The camshafts are connected to the crankshaft with a timing chain. There are multiple other components that are also used like timing chain tensioners and timing chain guides to help keep the chain tracking normally and remaining tight at all times. The crankshaft and camshafts sprockets are designed much like the sprockets on a chain driven bicycle with little points that fall into the chain one at a time and spin around. As the crank shaft rotates the timing chain is pulled wit ... read more

Why does my car burn oil? Burning oil is also referred to as oil consumption and surprisingly all vehicles consume oil to some extent. It is actually normal to burn about 1 quart of oil between oil changes and most manufactures will tell you this. As a vehicle gets driven there is very slight wear and tear that happens to an engine which is also normal, however this wear and tear will eventually lead to excessive oil consumption. So what causes cars to burn oil? The most common causes for oil consumption are worn out valve seats, or worn out piston rings. When these parts wear down enough they allow oil to enter the combustion chamber and gets burned off with the air and fuel mixture. What are signs of burning oil? The best way to determine if your car is consuming too much oil is by regularly checking the oil. This method is best used by checking your oil level every time you fill your car with gas. One quart of oil between oil changes is normal, if your engine oil level ... read more

Getting your oil change and oil filter change is one of the most important (and quickest) auto maintenance tasks. Your vehicle is a major investment, and we understand that at Dickerson Automotive. That is why we strive to provide you with high-quality and clean engine oil so that your engine can run smoothly. Engine oil keeps your engine components lubricated, to minimize friction, and free from corrosion.    You can imagine that motor oil is constantly flowing throughout your engine. After a certain amount of time, the oil darkens and becomes less effective overall. If you wait too long in between oil services, you may experience leaks that can result in engine damage.    Some oil leaks are more obvious than others. The most common sign of an oil leak is if you notice a dark puddle underneath your parked vehicle. However, it is always a good idea to check on your oil if you hear engine knocking.   Reasons Why Your Car Is Leaking Oil Blown Head Gask ... read more

The steering system is an essential part of the vehicle because it allows the driver to control its direction. A malfunctioning steering wheel can create an array of problems. If the steering wheel becomes stiff or suddenly locks up, it can lead to a major accident. Many components make up the power steering system which allow it to turn with little resistance effectively. One seemingly small issue can break the entire system down; that’s why it’s essential to identify a potential problem before it becomes hazardous. Below are common reasons why the steering wheel has become hard to turn. Bad steering rack The steering rack is an essential aspect of the power steering system. It’s made up of the pinion and rack. The steering rack can become subject to wear and tear after several years of driving. If the steering wheel is hard to turn right after starting the engine, the steering rack may be the cau ... read more