Spanish Fork Auto Repair

Experiencing vibrations in the engine bay can be alarming and uncomfortable, often pointing to underlying issues that need attention. Addressing engine vibrations early is essential to keep your vehicle running smoothly and to avoid further damage. By understanding the causes of these vibrations and using solutions like dynamic engine mounts, you can reduce vibration and enhance your driving experience. Common Causes of Engine Bay Vibration Vibrations in the engine bay can stem from several common sources: Worn or Failing Engine Mounts: Engine mounts are designed to secure the engine in place and absorb vibrations. Over time, these mounts wear down, allowing excess movement and increased vibrations in the cabin. Misfiring Engine Cylinders: A misfiring cylinder can cause uneven power delivery, resulting in noticeable vibrations, especially during acceleration or whe ... read more

Once a year we are required to get an emissions test and register our vehicles in Utah County, but your check engine light is on.  Here at Dickerson Automotive we have been advised but the Utah County Health Department  to always start with an emissions test even if that vehicle is going to fail. Why is it that we would want to start with a test that is not going to pass? There are a couple reasons why we would want to start with a failed test.  The manufacturer is responsible for light duty vehicles to pass emissions within the first 2 years and under 24,000 miles. There are also 3 major components covered for 8 years or 80,000 miles. So, if there is a chance it is covered by warranty we would need to send you to the dealer. On occasion the repairs completed did not influence the check engine light or you have spent at least $450 dollars, and the check engine light remains on did not reduce the pollution levels below standard, you would be able to apply for a waiver a ... read more

A vehicle can fail an emissions test due to a bad or low-quality catalytic converter because the converter is crucial in reducing harmful pollutants emitted from the exhaust system. Replacement can be a costly repair, but it is best to ensure it is a quality part rather than risk replacing it multiple times.   Here’s why: Increased Emissions: The catalytic converter’s primary function is to convert toxic gases like carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons into less harmful substances such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and water vapor. If the catalytic converter is malfunctioning or damaged, it won’t effectively convert these gases, leading to higher levels of pollutants in the exhaust. This increase in emissions will typically cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test, as it will exceed the acceptable limits set by environmental regulations. Check Engine Light: Many vehicles are equipped with onboard diagnostic ... 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

Shaking Up Your Drive: Understanding Why Your Car Shakes While Driving Is your car giving you the unsettling sensation of a shaky ride? Whether it's a subtle vibration or an all-out shudder, driving a car that shakes can be a cause for concern and discomfort. But fear not! In this blog post, we'll explore some common reasons why your car might be shaking while you drive and what you can do to address the issue. Wheel Alignment Woes: One of the most frequent culprits behind a shaky ride is misaligned wheels. Over time, your car's wheels can become misaligned due to factors like hitting potholes, curbs, or other road hazards. When your wheels are out of alignment, it can lead to uneven tire wear and cause your car to shake, especially at higher speeds. Tire Troubles: Speaking of tires, they play a significant role in your car's overall stability and smoothness of the ride. Issues such as unbalanced tires, uneven tire wear, or worn-out ... read more