Spanish Fork Auto Repair

When you think about your vehicle’s drive train, it’s easy to focus on major parts like the transmission and the axles. However, if you drive a four-wheel drive (4WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicle, there’s another essential component in play: the transfer case. This often-overlooked part plays a crucial role in delivering power to all four wheels, giving your vehicle better traction and control. But like any moving part, it requires proper lubrication. Let’s explore what a transfer case is, why its fluid is essential, and how you can maintain it to keep your vehicle running smoothly. What is a Transfer Case? The transfer case is part of your vehicle's drive train, found in 4WD and AWD vehicles. Its main job is to split the power from the transmission to both the front and rear axles, allowing all four wheels to receive power simultaneously. Depending on the vehicle, a transfer case may offer different modes, such as 4WD high, 4WD low, o ... read more

Power steering fluid plays a crucial role in the performance and safety of your vehicle, yet it’s often overlooked in routine maintenance. If you're a car or truck owner, understanding the importance of power steering fluid can help you avoid costly repairs and ensure your vehicle handles smoothly. In this blog post, we’ll cover what power steering fluid is, its purpose, and how to maintain it for optimal vehicle performance. What is Power Steering Fluid? Power steering fluid is a hydraulic fluid that provides the pressure needed to assist in turning the steering wheel. Whether you're driving a compact car or a large truck, this fluid reduces the effort required to steer, making it easier to maneuver at low speeds or in tight spaces. It flows through the power steering system, which typically includes a pump, hoses, and steering gear, ensuring smooth and responsive steering. Purpose of Power Steering Fluid The primary purpose of ... read more

Brake fluid plays a critical role in your vehicle’s brake system maintenance. Acting as hydraulic fluid, it transfers the force from the brake pedal to the brakes themselves, enabling you to stop the car safely. Without proper brake fluid replacement, your vehicle's braking performance can be compromised, potentially leading to dangerous situations. What Does Brake Fluid Do? Brake fluid is non-compressible, meaning it can handle the high pressure and heat generated when stopping your vehicle. When you press the brake pedal, the fluid transfers this force to the brakes at the front and rear, applying the necessary pressure to slow or stop your vehicle effectively. Regular brake fluid change ensures the system works smoothly, providing safety and performance. Why Brake Fluid Exchange is Essential Over time, brake fluid degrades and absorbs moisture from the air, which lower ... read more

When it comes to vehicle maintenance, one of the most overlooked services is transmission fluid replacement. While many car owners focus on oil changes, tire rotations, and brake checks, they may not realize that regularly servicing transmission fluid is just as crucial. Your vehicle’s transmission system is responsible for ensuring smooth gear shifts and efficient power transfer to the wheels. Keeping it well-maintained can prevent serious issues down the road. Let’s explore the key benefits of servicing your transmission fluid: 1. Extended Transmission LifespanTransmission fluid is the lifeblood of your car’s transmission system. Over time, the fluid can become contaminated with dirt, debris, and metal particles from the gears. These impurities cause wear and te ... read more

Your vehicle is in the shop for routine maintenance, and the technician recommends a Coolant System Exchange. You might wonder, "Is this really necessary?" The answer is yes! At Dickerson Automotive, we, like most trusted repair shops, follow a general rule: a coolant exchange should be done every 5 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. Here's why it's so important. Over time, the anti-freeze in your vehicle becomes more acidic and begins to lose its rust-inhibiting properties. This can lead to corrosion and rust buildup inside the cooling system, which puts critical components like the radiator, water pump, and thermostat at risk of failure. Left unchecked, these issues can cause your vehicle to overheat, potentially leading to costly repairs or breakdowns. Performing a coolant system exchange ensures that these components ... read more