Spanish Fork Auto Repair

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

Understanding Tire Sizes: What Do Those Numbers Mean? If you’ve ever looked at the sidewall of your tire, you’ve probably noticed a series of numbers and letters, like 225/60R16. At first glance, it can seem like a secret code—but each number and letter tells you something important about your tire’s size, construction, and performance. Understanding these details can help you make smarter decisions when replacing your tires or upgrading your wheels. Breaking Down a Tire Size Let’s take the example 225/60R16: 1. Tire Width – 225 The first number refers to the width of the tire in millimeters, measured from sidewall to sidewall. In this case, the ... read more

Why Your Vehicle Shakes While Braking (And Whether Rotors Can Be Resurfaced or Need Replacing) Experiencing shaking or a pulsation in your vehicle when applying the brakes can be unsettling—and it’s often a sign that your brake rotors are warped or uneven. Here's a breakdown of why this happens, what "thickness variation" means, and when you can resurface versus needing a full rotor replacement. 1. Why Does the Car Shake When Braking? A common culprit behind steering wheel or pedal vibrations during braking is warped brake rotors. As rotors wear unevenly from heat and friction, they develop high and low spots that cause the brake pads to apply uneven pressure. This results in a noticeable shaking sensation through the steering wheel or brakes . 2. Understanding Rotor Thickness Variation (DTV) ... read more

Active Fuel Management (AFM)—also known as Cylinder Deactivation—is GM’s variable-displacement engine technology. It's designed to improve fuel economy by allowing V6 and V8 engines to deactivate cylinders under light-load conditions, such as steady highway driving. When deactivated, these cylinders are closed off and filled with trapped air, effectively turning them into air springs. This reduces energy loss through pumping, helping the engine run more efficiently while maintaining a smooth driving experience. 👨‍🔧 How AFM Works 🔧 Hydraulic Lifter Control AFM uses a combination of solenoids and hydraulically-actuated lifters, located in the engine valley, to disable specific intake and exhaust valves. These lifters, supplied by Eaton and Delphi, temporarily prevent certain cylinders from firing, allowing the engine to operate in a leaner mode when full power isn't ... read more

The Importance of Regular Oil Changes: Insights from Dickerson Automotive in Spanish Fork, UT Regular oil changes are a fundamental aspect of vehicle maintenance, crucial for ensuring the longevity and performance of your engine. At Dickerson Automotive in Spanish Fork, UT, we emphasize the significance of timely oil changes and offer comprehensive services to keep your vehicle running smoothly. Why Are Oil Changes Essential? Engine oil serves multiple vital functions: Lubrication: It reduces friction between moving parts, preventing wear and tear. Cooling: Oil helps dissipate heat, maintaining optimal engine temperature. Cleaning: It carries away dirt and debris, keeping the e ... read more