Posted on 7/31/2024
![Why Your AC Smells Musty and How to Fix It](https://www.dickersonauto.com/Files/EmailCampaigns/PERSON%20IN%20CAR%20WITH%20AC%20.jpg)
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
Posted on 7/23/2024
![Speak Mechanic: Key Car Terms Explained](https://www.dickersonauto.com/Files/EmailCampaigns/tire%20dictionary%20.jpg)
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
Posted on 7/17/2024
![Why Is My Car Idling Rough? Understanding the Causes and Solutions](https://www.dickersonauto.com/Files/EmailCampaigns/Engine-Warning-300x300.jpg)
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
Posted on 7/10/2024
![Top 5 Car Maintenance Tasks to Prevent Breakdowns](https://www.dickersonauto.com/Files/EmailCampaigns/Blog%20Posts/@reallygreatsite.png)
Owning a car comes with the responsibility of regular maintenance to ensure it runs smoothly and reliably. Neglecting essential upkeep can lead to unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. Here are the top five car maintenance tasks that can help prevent breakdowns and keep your vehicle in top condition: 1. Regular Oil Changes Oil is the lifeblood of your car's engine. It lubricates the engine components, reducing friction and preventing overheating. Over time, oil breaks down and becomes contaminated with dirt and debris, losing its effectiveness. Regular oil changes, typically every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, ensure that your engine stays well-lubricated and operates efficiently. 2. Check and Replace Air Filters Air filters prevent dirt, dust, and debris from entering your engine and affecting its performance. A clogged air filter can reduce fuel efficiency, increase emissions, and lead to engine problems. Check your air ... read more
Posted on 7/2/2024
![Benefits of Maintaining Your Vehicle Rather Than Purchasing a New On](https://www.dickersonauto.com/Files/EmailCampaigns/Vehicles%20.jpg)
Deciding whether to maintain your current vehicle or purchase a new one is a significant financial decision. While the allure of a new car is strong, there are substantial benefits to maintaining your current vehicle. Insights from [Edmunds' True Cost to Own (TCO)] (https://www.edmunds.com/about/more-about-tco.html) analysis highlight several advantages of sticking with your existing car. Let’s explore these benefits in detail. Financial Savings 1. Lower Depreciation Costs: - New cars depreciate quickly, losing a significant portion of their value within the first few years. By maintaining your current vehicle, you avoid this steep depreciation hit. Your car has already gone through the most rapid phase of depreciation, making it a more economical choice. 2. Reduced Monthly Expenses: - Purchasing a new car often involves taking on a new loan, leading to higher monthly payments. Maintaining your current car, especially if i ... read more