Spanish Fork Auto Repair

    If you own a Subaru, you already know they’re well-loved for their reliability, safety, and all-wheel-drive performance. But there’s one issue that some Subaru owners have experienced over the years — excessive oil consumption. If you’ve noticed your oil level dropping between oil changes or a burning smell coming from under the hood, you’re not alone. At Dickerson Automotive in Spanish Fork, we often get calls from Subaru drivers wondering, “Is it normal for my car to burn oil?” Let’s take a closer look at why it happens and what you can do to keep your engine healthy. Why Some Subarus Burn Oil Oil consumption can happen with any engine, but it’s been more common in certain Subaru models and years — especially those equipped with ... 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 en ... read more

Subarus are renowned for their reliability, all-wheel-drive capabilities, and longevity. However, like any vehicle, they aren’t immune to mechanical issues. One of the most common problems Subaru owners encounter is oil leaks. While this can be a frustrating issue, understanding the typical causes, signs, and solutions can help you stay ahead of potential problems and keep your Subaru running like new. Common Sources of Oil Leaks in Subarus Subaru’s unique engine design, particularly its horizontally opposed (boxer) engine, contributes to its performance and balance. However, this design also makes certain seals and gaskets prone to wear. Here are the most common culprits: 1. Valve Cover Gaskets The valve cover gaskets are a frequent source of oil leaks, especially in older Subarus or those with higher mileage. These gaskets seal the valve covers to the cylinder heads, preventing oil from escaping. Over time, they can degrade due to hea ... read more

All vehicles are equipped with a sophisticated computer system that’s programmed to alert you if it detects something wrong. If you turn on the ignition and notice a warning light, it’s important to bring your vehicle into Dickerson Automotive as soon as possible for an inspection. Depending on which warning light illuminates, a major issue can progress quickly and lead to an unexpected breakdown. It’s important to pay attention to the dashboard warning lights because not only do they keep you safe, but they prevent automotive failures and their expensive repair bills. Below are the most common dashboard warning lights and what they can indicate:  Oil Pressure Light The oil pressure light is an image of an old fashioned oil tin and indicates an issue with your vehicle’s oil pressure system. If this light illuminates, your car may be low on oil, or the oil pressure is low. This light alerts of a problem that should be addressed as soon as ... read more