Category Archives: Routine Vehicle Maintenance (Fluids, Filters, Seasonal Prep)

What Is A Transmission Fluid Filter Service?

What Is A Transmission Fluid Filter Service?

What Is A Transmission Fluid Filter Service? Transmissions are easily one of the most overlooked services that we do. Transmissions and the fluid inside them is just as important as engine oil, after all transmission fluid is just like oil. Each transmission is different and also has different service intervals. Transmission services are generally recommended between 30,000 to 50,000 miles. Dickerson Automotive recommends servicing transmission fluid every 30,000 miles to get the maximum life out of the transmission. There are multiple ways to service a transmission from a fluid exchange, drain and refill, or filter and fluid service. Today were going to talk about how we service transmissions by changing the filter and the fluid inside the transmission pan. Why Is Transmission Fluid So Important? Transmission fluid works just like engine oil does except its for the internal parts of the transmission. Automatic transmission fluid contains many cleaners as well as lubricants. The det ... read more

What Does Preventive Maintenance Mean?

What Does Preventive Maintenance Mean?

Vehicle preventive maintenance refers to the regular and proactive maintenance of a vehicle to ensure that it is running at its peak performance and remains in good condition. This involves inspections, cleaning, lubrication, and replacement of parts to keep the vehicle operating smoothly and safely. The goal of preventive maintenance is to prevent costly repairs and breakdowns, maximize fuel efficiency, and extend the lifespan of the car. What Does Preventive Maintenance Mean? Regular vehicle preventive maintenance includes a variety of tasks, such as changing the oil and oil filter, checking and topping off fluids, replacing air and fuel filters, checking and replacing spark plugs, inspecting the brakes and tires, and checking the battery and electrical system. It also involves periodic inspections of the suspension and steering components, belts and hoses, and other critical parts of the vehicle. How Does It Help? Preventive maintenance can help identify potential problems befor ... 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

Signs It’s Time to Swap Out Your Cabin Air Filter

Signs It’s Time to Swap Out Your Cabin Air Filter

Drivers should always be attentive to the quality of the air traveling inside through their vehicle vents. The vents have air filters that prevent you from breathing in dust, debris, and other harmful pollutants. Cabin air filters help prevent potential respiratory health problems. If you're among the select population that is more sensitive to air pollution or has allergies, then you should stay on top of changing your cabin air filter.    You can find the air filter's change interval listed in the vehicle's owner's manual most of the time. However, you should also consider accounting for your driving habits, seasons, and the type of environment in which you operate your vehicle. To better know when it's time to swap the filter out for a new one, be on the lookout for the signs of an ineffective filter. Foul Smell  When the filter becomes clogged, you'll notice a musty smell blowing through the vents. If the odor makes you and your passengers ... read more

Why Does My Vehicle Need a Coolant Flush?

Why Does My Vehicle Need a Coolant Flush?

Too much heat presents a great challenge to motor vehicles. Thankfully, all vehicles have a measure to keep themselves cool. The car's engine has a cooling system aided by a coolant, a fluid that runs in the engine and transmits heat away from it. The coolant should remain clean for it to function effectively. Dirty coolant must be flushed out and replaced with a fresh one. But how do you know when your coolant needs flushing? To know this, be on the lookout for the following symptoms. Your Vehicle Overheats As stated above, the role of the coolant is to keep your engine temperatures low. If your temperature gauge is always on the higher side, it means the coolant is no longer performing its duty and needs flushing. An overheating engine can easily break down, resulting in costly repairs. A Maple Syrup Smell From Your Car (Engine) One sure sign that your coolant needs flushing is the smell of maple syrup, butterscotch, or pancakes coming from your engine. The ethylene glycol ... read more