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Signs That Your Car Needs Service

By November 26, 2019No Comments
auto body repair

auto body repairMost car owners often forget to service their vehicles as frequently as required. It’s easy enough to forget the last time you did an oil change or when you did the last tune up. However, there are some signs that you need to have the car inspected or repaired by a car service expert. Otherwise, you will risk costly damage. Here’s what you need to know.

• Check the engine light or any other dashboard warnings on your vehicle. The car’s diagnostic system is useful to keep the engine running properly. If there are any blinking or flashing warning signs as well as the check engine indicators, make sure you address them immediately.

• Are there any oil spots under the car? If there are any dark brown oil spots in the driveway or garage floor, there is a problem. Yes, these stains are quite unsightly. It’s also a sign that your vehicle is leaking motor oil. It could be a problem with the oil filter or a poorly fitted drain plug. Also, there could be a compromised gasket in the engine.

• Is there greenish fluid under the car? It’s a sign that the radiator fluid is leaking. It could be anything from a bad hose fitting connected to the radiator or a penetrated or cracked radiator. You need to get this problem fixed quickly because your engine is at the risk of overheating or permanent damage.

• Are there any squeaking or squealing sounds when breaking? Many vehicle manufacturers make sure their brakes emit a high-pitched squeak or squeal when they are worn out. It could also be a sign of the brake hardware being too worn out. If you put off the brake repair, it could end up costing you a lot more money.

• Is there grinding when braking? It’s a sign that the brake pads weren’t replaced in time. It also shows that the brake rotor surface has become damaged or marred. It’s likely that the brake pads are beyond the wear limit. Therefore, the other parts of the braking system are in contact with the brake rotor. It’s time to get those brakes repaired immediately.

• Is there a louder sputtering, rumbling or stranger than normal sounds coming from the vehicle when it’s in operation? Well, it’s a sign that there is something wrong with the exhaust system. It could be a minor issue such as a hole or disconnected pipe. Also, it could be a sign of a major problem such as a catalytic converter or a bad muffler.

• Is there a screeching or chirping sound coming from under the hood? Drive belts, also referred to as serpentine belts, are responsible for directing the engine power to the accessory uses such as AC or power steering. With time, these belts will become glazed, brittle or frayed as they wear out. It will result in a screeching or chirping sound especially when you start the vehicle. Repair the belts to avoid this in the future.

• Is there a humming, roaring or growling sound when driving? It’s a sign that your tires might be deformed or worn out. You need to replace them immediately. If you notice these sounds when changing lanes or turning, it’s a sign of a bad wheel bearing. Get these issues checked immediately to avoid being stranded.

If you are having any troubles with your vehicle, you need a reputable mechanic to help. Fairway Collision and Automotive can help out. Don’t ignore any of these warning signs on your vehicle because it will be costly in the long run.