Regular maintenance is key to keeping your vehicle running smoothly for years to come. But even with the best intentions, sometimes car trouble sneaks up on us. If you’re unsure whether or not your car needs repairs, here are some signs to look out for.
1. Unusual Noises
One of the most common signs that something is wrong with your car is if it starts making strange noises that it didn’t make before. If you hear an engine knocking or rattling, it could be a sign that your engine mounts are loose and need to be tightened. If you hear squealing when you brake, it could be a sign that your brake pads need to be replaced. And if you hear a clicking noise when you turn, it could be a sign that your CV joint needs to be lubricated. If you notice any of these noises, it’s best to take your car in for repair as soon as possible.
2. Leaking Fluid
If you see any fluid leaking from your car, it’s important to identify what type of fluid it is so you can determine how serious the leak is. Oil leaks are usually not serious and can often be fixed with a simple sealant. Coolant leaks are more serious and should be fixed as soon as possible. And brake fluid leaks are the most serious and should be fixed immediately. If you see any fluid leaking from your car, make sure to take it in for repair so the leak can be fixed before it causes more damage.
3. Engine Light is On
If the engine light on your dash is lit up, it means there’s an error code stored in the computer system and the vehicle needs to be serviced soon. It could be something as simple as a loose gas cap or something more serious like an engine misfire. Either way, it’s important to take your car in for repair so the issue can be diagnosed and fixed before it becomes worse.
4. Car Won’t Start
If your car won’t start, it could either be a dead battery or a problem with the starter motor. If it’s a dead battery, you can usually jump-start the car and get on your way without having to do much else; however, if the problem is with the starter motor, it will need to be replaced, which is a more involved repair. Either way, if your car won’t start, it’s important to take it in for repair so you can get back on the road as soon as possible.