Spanish Fork Auto Repair

  When you walk down the oil aisle at an auto parts store, the sheer variety of engine oils can be overwhelming. Different types, viscosity, and additives are available, each designed for specific needs. Here’s why there are so many options and how to pick the best one for your vehicle. Why Are There So Many Different Engine Oils?Engine Designs Vary: Different engines have unique requirements based on their design, size, and performance needs. For example, a high-performance sports car engine has different oil needs compared to a heavy-duty truck or a standard sedan. Climate Considerations: The climate where you live can affect which oil is best for your vehicle. Oils are formulated to perform optimally at different temperatures. For instance, some oils are better suited for extremely cold environments, while others are formulated to withstand high heat. Driving Conditions: Your driving habits also inf ... read more

The Importance of Serpentine Belt Replacement and Symptoms of a Worn Belt   The serpentine belt is a crucial component of your vehicle's engine, responsible for driving multiple peripheral devices such as the alternator, power steering pump, water pump, and air conditioning compressor. Keeping this belt in good condition is vital for the proper functioning of your car. Here’s why timely serpentine belt replacement is important and how to recognize the signs of a worn belt.    Why Replace the Serpentine Belt?   1. Prevent Engine Overheating: The serpentine belt drives the water pump, which circulates coolant through the engine. A failed belt can cause the engine to overheat, leading to significant damage.   2. Maintain Power Steering: Without a functioning serpentine belt, the power steering pump won't operate, making the vehicle difficult to steer and increasing the risk o ... read more

  Why Your AC Smells Musty and How to Fix It   There’s nothing quite as refreshing as the cool breeze from your air conditioner on a hot day. But if that breeze carries a musty odor, it can quickly turn an enjoyable experience into an unpleasant one. If you’ve noticed a musty smell coming from your AC, you’re not alone. This common issue can be resolved with a bit of understanding and maintenance. Here’s what you need to know about why your AC might smell musty and how you can fix it, with insights from Consumer Reports.    Why Does My AC Smell Musty?   A musty odor from your air conditioner usually indicates the presence of mold or mildew. Here are some common reasons why this might happen, as noted by Consumer Reports:   1. Clogged Drain Line: The drain line is responsible for removing condensation from your AC unit. When it becomes clogged with dirt, dust, or mold, water can back up and create a moist environment where m ... read more

    Not everyone is a major car enthusiast; it’s easy to get lost in automotive jargon when speaking to a mechanic. It may even feel like they’re speaking an entirely different language altogether. It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the meanings of commonly used automotive terms to effectively communicate with your mechanic.   ABS – Anti-lock Braking System. If you find yourself slamming on your brakes, the ABS helps your wheels grip the road and prevents them from locking up.   Aftermarket – Automotive parts that aren’t made by the original manufacturer but can be used as replacements or enhancements.   ASE– Automotive Service Excellence. This professional certification requires a mechanic to have at least two years of on-the-job training and pass a skill test.   Battery – The component under your hood that stores electr ... read more

    Is your car idling rough, causing the engine to shake or vibrate unusually when it’s supposed to be running smoothly? Rough idling can be a sign of several underlying issues, and understanding these can help you diagnose and address the problem effectively. Here, we’ll explore some common causes of rough idling and how to fix them, based on insights from Sprint Motorsports.    1. Poor Airflow or Bad Airflow Sensor A car's engine needs a precise air-to-fuel ratio to run smoothly. If there's an issue with the airflow, such as a clogged air filter or a faulty mass airflow sensor, it can cause the engine to idle rough. The mass airflow sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine and helps determine the right amount of fuel to inject. If this sensor is malfunctioning, it can lead to an incorrect air-fuel mixture, resulting in rough idling.   Solution: Check and replace the air filter if it’s dirty. If the problem persis ... read more