Spanish Fork Auto Repair

Understanding Your Alignment Readings When your shop hands you an alignment printout, do you really know what all those numbers and terms mean—or do you just notice the Christmas colors of red and green? Most of us understand that red means bad and green means good, but what exactly do those colors represent? Let’s break down the three main terms you’ll see on your alignment report: caster, camber, and toe.Caster   Caster measures how far forward or backward the steering axis tilts compared to the vertical axis of the wheel. It affects steering stability, steering effort, and how well your vehicle tracks straight down the road. Positive caster helps keep your steering wheel centered and improves high-speed stability. Negative caster makes steering feel lighter but ... read more

    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

If you’ve noticed a popping or clicking sound when driving your Honda Pilot, especially while turning or accelerating, it could be a sign of an issue with your CV (constant velocity) axle. In SUVs like the Pilot, CV axles are critical components that transfer power from the transmission to the wheels while also allowing flexibility for the suspension’s up-and-down motion. Because Honda Pilots are larger, family-friendly vehicles often used for road trips, commuting, and sometimes towing, their CV axles endure significant stress. Over time, wear and tear can cause these parts to develop issues that present as popping or clicking noises. Addressing the problem early can prevent further damage and keep your Pilot safe and reliable. Common Causes of CV Axle Popping in a Honda Pilot 1. Worn or Damaged CV Joints One of the most common reasons Honda Pilot owners hear popping sounds ... read more

The Importance of Preventative Maintenance for Your Vehicle When it comes to owning a vehicle, most drivers focus on filling the gas tank, changing the oil occasionally, and keeping it clean. But what many overlook is one of the most important aspects of car ownership: preventative maintenance. Preventative maintenance is all about taking care of your vehicle before problems arise. It involves routine inspections, services, and small repairs that help keep your car running smoothly and safely. Think of it like going to the doctor for a check-up—catching issues early can save you time, money, and frustration down the road.   Why Preventative Maintenance MattersSaves Money in the Long Run Skipping maintenance might feel like you’re saving money now, but small issues can quickly turn into costly repairs. For example, ignoring a simple oil change can lead to engine damage that costs thousands to fix ... read more

How Much Is My Car Worth? Should I Repair or Replace It? One of the most common questions car owners ask is: “How much is my car worth?” When a repairs  large or small come up with your current vehicle makes you stop and think, Is this worth fixing? Should I just buy new?  Knowing the answer helps you decide whether it makes more sense to invest in repairs or start shopping for something new. Step 1: Check Online Car Value Tools There are several free resources that give you an estimate of your car’s value: Kelley Blue Book (KBB.com)Edmunds.comNADA GuidesLocal dealership trade-in tools These sites ask for your vehicle’s year, make, model, mileage, and condition. Once entered, you’ll get a price range ... read more