Driving your car every day will cause wear and tear to its various components and systems over time. If you spot one of these 20 issues, get it fixed by a mechanic before it becomes dangerous and more expensive.
Engine Overheating
Cooling system leaks, radiator issues, broken water pumps, or blocked hoses can cause your car’s engine to overheat. The temperature gauge will rise, the check engine light may come on if it’s overheating, and steam may come out from under the hood. If you’re driving on the road, pull over as soon as safely possible and call a mechanic.
Brake System Failures
Brakes are constantly subject to use when driving, which can quickly wear them down. Kwik Fit explains that common signs of brake system issues include a lack of resistance on the pedals, the car pulling to one side when braking, and the steering wheel vibrating when the brakes are engaged. If you notice these problems when braking, take your car to the garage before they cause an accident.
Electrical System Malfunctions
Modern cars are highly reliant on their electrical systems to function, so when these begin to malfunction, it can affect the car in several ways. Battery problems, lights dimming, and fuses repeatedly blowing out are common signs of an electrical system malfunctioning, so take your car to the garage if you spot them.
Faulty Ignition System
Common symptoms of ignition system failure include being unable to turn the key, having a stuck steering wheel, and the engine not starting. If your ignition system is struggling, you can use jumper cables to get it started before driving it to the garage.
Exhaust System Leaks
A leaking exhaust system can cause dangerous, odorless gases to seep into the cabin, which can make you and your family sick over time. Increased engine noise and a constant smell of gas in the cabin could be due to a leaking exhaust system, so if your car has these issues, take it to a garage.
Steering System Failures
If steering your car is becoming increasingly difficult and strenuous, it may be due to steering system failures. Although steering system failures are one of the more uncommon car issues, they can be incredibly dangerous, so it’s important to take your vehicle to a garage to have it looked at.
Battery Problems
Flat or faulty batteries are common causes of breakdowns, so if your car’s electrical components aren’t turning on, you’re frequently jump-starting it, or there’s a clicking sound when you turn the key, it may need to be replaced. Business Insider suggests taking your car to a mechanic for a professional opinion.
Coolant Leaks
Coolant leaks are one of the most reported fluid problems in cars. Coolant is usually brightly colored to make it stand out from oil and gasoline, which makes it easy to spot when your vehicle has been parked in the same space for an extended period of time.
Fuel System Problems
Unusual fuel tank noises, the car struggling when starting, and unexpected stalling are common signs of problems with your vehicle’s fuel system. Regularly inspecting and replacing your fuel filter can reduce the chance of these problems occurring.
Suspension System Issues
Your vehicle’s suspension system allows it to drive comfortably and with stability, so issues with the system can be dangerous. They could reduce your ability to accelerate, brake, and corner safely, so take your car to a professional if you think the suspension is faulty.
Tire Blowouts
Tire blowouts can be dangerous when driving and cause a vehicle to lose control. AAA Club Alliance explains that they’re estimated to cause over 78,300 crashes and 400 deaths annually and that “the average driver will experience up to five flat tires in a lifetime.” Don’t step on the brake if you experience a tire blowout while driving. Steer as straight as possible, gently removing your foot from the accelerator.
Malfunctioning Wipers
Wipers can start malfunctioning after they’re torn, covered in ice, or when their wires break. They’re essential for visibility, especially during rainy weather, so if they start malfunctioning, get a professional to look at them.
Headlight and Taillight Failures
It’s essential that your headlights and taillights function properly. Dimming or broken lights could cause a crash at night and are dangerous for you and other drivers on the road, so have them replaced at a garage.
Clutch Problems
If the clutch in your manual transmission car slips after you release the pedal, makes grumbling or squeaking noises, or you’re having difficulty changing gears, take your car to a garage. Identifying the problem earlier can prevent repair costs from getting out of hand.
Faulty Air Conditioning
Hot or weak airflow, odd smells, or unusual noises coming from your air conditioning may indicate that it is faulty. A mechanic can usually repair or replace it quickly, so get it looked at by a professional.
Transmission Issues
Car transmissions endure a lot of wear and tear when driving, so if you notice problems with yours, take it to a mechanic before the repairs become more costly. HowStuffWorks explains that common signs of transmission issues include the car refusing to go into gear, a burning smell, slipping gears, and a dragging clutch.
Timing Belt Failure
The timing belt is one of your car engine’s most crucial elements. It keeps the different parts of the motor working in sync but can fail after regular wear and tear, so take your car to a mechanic if a rubbing sound is coming from the engine area.
Oil Leaks
Engine oil leaks typically occur when the oil gasket isn’t tightened properly or the oil filter loosens over time. Tightening the filter gasket should usually fix the problem, but if it persists, take it to a mechanic.
Radiator Issues
Radiators stop cars from overheating by cooling the fluid around the engine, but if smoke comes from the radiator, it may be failing. The most common cause is a leaky hose, which can be easily replaced during regular maintenance.
Power Steering Fluid Leaks
Power steering fluid lubricates the power steering pump and keeps your steering wheel functioning properly. An overfilled reservoir can cause it to leak, so ensure it’s filled to the appropriate level.
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