It is very important to maintain your vehicle properly and have a regular service routine so that it can always be in the best shape and operate smoothly.
That notwithstanding, there are times when your car can develop some issues and you would know by some warning signs that your vehicle will display.
In this article, we will be taking a look at the 12 most common car problems. It is important that you take note of them so that when you notice them, you will know to quickly take care of it to avoid a breakdown.
12 Common Car Problems
Faulty Starter Motor
The function of the starter motor is to crank your engine over and commence the starting process. When the Starter Motor becomes faulty, it is usually as a result of damage to the electrical solenoid has been damaged.
The advice here is to change the starter before the damage, although you cannot really say when. But should you have a car starting inspection and you discover that the issue is the starter, then you have to replace it.
Failed Emissions Test
In quite a number of US states, you will have to take an emissions test before you can register your car. There are many factors that can result in a failed test one of which is if a check engine light illuminates.
The emissions centers will notify you on the reason why your car did not pass the test, so that you can contact a professional and have it handled.
Dead Battery
Usually car batteries are okay for about three years or 50,000 miles, but in some cases it can be sooner than that. Some of the factors that make it faster include damaged alternator, battery temperature sensor, or other charging system components.
When you notice that your car battery is dead, it could be because of reduced amps or electrical currents which happen as the battery loses its ability to maintain a charge.
To handle this, what you should do is to replace your car battery every 50,000 miles or three years. This should be done whether you are noticing damage in the battery or not.
Alternator Failure
One of the essential parts of your car that ensures that all the electrical systems are functioning properly is the alternator. Another function of the alternator is to supply a charge to your battery so that it can remain in optimum condition.
So in a situation where the alternator is faulty, it could result in a series of issues in your engine one of which is that the battery will start to wear out faster than normal.
It is advised that you change the alternator before it gets faulty so as to avoid more damages to the car.
Overheating
Overheating is usually not an issue with newer cars on the road as they come with really complex cooling system that is made up of various sensors that monitor coolant temperature, flow and other components to ensure that the car does not over heat.
However, you can always get radiator flush services and replace your water pump before it breaks so as to avoid overheating.
Slipping Automatic Transmission
If you follow the recommended transmission service for your car, your automatic transmission can last for more than 200,000 miles without giving you any issues.
Automatic transmission is a hydraulic system that is made up of different seals, gaskets, and lines. These seals, gaskets, and lines can become clogged with debris, start leaking or outright damaged and this results in the slip.
But just like we said earlier, you can prevent this by following the right transmission service for your car.
Burning More Fuel Than Usual
If your engine is working properly as it should, your car would consume fuel at a moderate rate and by so doing help you to conserve fuel. There are different fuel system parts that help achieve this such as air filters, fuel filters, O2 sensors as well as mass air flow sensors.
But in a situation where they get dirty or worn out, they will not be performing as well as they should, which will result in your car burning more fuel than usual.
This is another reason why routine servicing is recommended because the fuel system parts will be checked and the ones that need to be replaced will be replaced.
Warning or Check Engine Lights
It is quite common to notice a warning or check engine light in your car. These lights come on when your car’s engine control unit (ECU) notices an error code and this is prompted by a sensor.
There are over 200 possible warning code so the best cause of action is for you to get in contact with a professional mechanic. This is so that the professional can properly inspect the warning light, find out what the fault is and make the adequate repairs.
Flat Tires
Tires can become flat when punctured or when it collides with some type of objects. It can also become flat because of simple wear and tear.
You can make your tires to last longer for you by keeping them properly rotated, as advised by your car manufacturer. You can choose to do this every 5,000 miles or whenever you change your engine oil.
Steering Wheel Shaking
There are different reasons why your steering wheel could be shaking while you are driving. For instance if your steering wheel shakes immediately after you start your car to drive then it is most likely caused by wheel bearings or damaged suspension components.
If you notice that your steering wheel shakes when you are at higher speeds, then it is most likely a tire/wheel balance issue.
Whatever might be the case, it is recommended that you get a professional to check it out, find out where the problem is coming from and get it fixed.
Brakes Squeaking or Grinding
Did you know that your brake system will eventually wear out over time? Knowing how very important brakes are for safe driving, you should pay close attention to it.
When you notice things such as squealing, squeaking or a soft brake pedal, then know that it is time to get it looked at by a professional.
If your brake is squeaking or squealing, then your mechanic can fix it and you will be good to go, but if it starts grinding then it means you should definitely replace it.
A Sputtering Engine
For your car engine to run smoothly, the air and fuel has to appropriately mix and burn in the combustion chamber. Fuel and ignition system components have to work together in order to achieve this.
There are quite a number of moving parts in an engine that makes it work properly. However, engine sputtering or misfiring can occur. To avoid this, it is best replace fuel and ignition system components as advised by your car manufacturer.
In summary, properly maintaining and servicing your car will save you a lot of stress as most of these car issues can be detected early and be properly taken care of. All cars require maintenance to remain operable.
Even when you stay on top of suggested support services, like oil changes and tire rotations, issues will occur. Driving style or car model may leave your car more prone to certain problems than others.
