If you’re like most people, you probably only take your car in for a tune-up when there’s something wrong. However, it’s vital to be proactive about car maintenance and know the warning signs that indicate your car needs a mechanic. Here are 15 of them:
Sign #1 Your engine is making strange noises
It’s normal for cars to emit sounds while they’re running, but if you hear noises that you’ve never heard before, it’s a sign that something is wrong. This can include knocking, ticking, or grinding noises. If you hear any strange noises coming from your engine, seek a mechanic to have your car looked at as soon as possible.
Sign #2 Your car is shaking or vibrating more than usual
If your car is shaking or vibrating more than usual, it could be a sign that there’s something wrong with your engine. Various issues could cause this, so it’s essential to have your car checked out by a professional as soon as possible.
Sign #3 You’re having trouble steering the car
If you’re having trouble steering your car, it’s a sign that something is wrong with your suspension. This could be caused by a blown tire or your shocks and struts problems. If you’re having trouble steering your car, immediately take it to a mechanic.
Sign #4 The engine is overheating
Most vehicles typically run hot when in use, but if your engine is frequently overheating, it’s a bad sign. This could be caused by a leak in your cooling system or a problem with your radiator. If your engine is overheating, take your car to a mechanic right away.
Sign #5 There’s a fluid leak somewhere on the car
If you’re noticing a fluid leak anywhere on your car, it’s a sign that something is wrong. So, if you see fluid leaking from your vehicle, take it to a mechanic to have it checked out. The most common types of fluid leaks are oil and coolant leaks.
Sign #6 The brakes aren’t working properly
If your brakes are making a high-pitched squealing or screeching sound, it’s a sign that they need to be replaced. Additionally, if your car takes longer to stop than usual, the brakes may also need to be serviced. If you’re having any issues with your brakes, take them to a mechanic as soon as possible.
Sign #7 Smoke is coming from the car
If you see smoke coming from your car, it’s a sign that there’s something seriously wrong. For instance, black smoke indicates a problem with the engine, while white smoke could indicate an overheated engine. If you see any smoke coming from your car, take it to a mechanic right away.
Sign #8 The car is pulling to one side
If your car is pulling to one side, it’s a sign that there’s something wrong with the alignment. This could be caused by a misaligned wheel or worn-out suspension components. So if your car is pulling to one side, take it to a mechanic to get it checked out.
Sign #9 Your dashboard is lit up like a Christmas tree
If your dashboard is lit up like a Christmas tree, it’s a sign that one or more error codes are being generated by your car. These codes can indicate various issues, so it’s essential to have your vehicle checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible.
Sign #10 The car isn’t accelerating or decelerating properly
If your vehicle isn’t accelerating or decelerating correctly, it’s a sign that there could be a problem with your transmission. This is a severe issue that should be addressed by a mechanic as soon as possible.
Sign #11 There’s a crack in your windshield
While a small crack in your windshield may not seem like a big deal, it’s a sign that your car needs to be taken in for auto glass replacement. Over time, these cracks can spread and become larger, making it more difficult to see while driving. So if you have a crack in your windshield, take your car in for a repair.
Sign #12 The battery dies quickly
If your battery dies quickly, it’s a sign that there’s something wrong with either the battery itself or the charging system. Many things could cause this, so it’s essential to have your car checked out by a mechanic.
Sign #13 The tires are balding
If your tires are balding, it’s a sign that they need to be replaced. This could lead to decreased traction and increased wear on the tires, so replacing them immediately is essential. After all, most tires have to be changed every six to eight years, regardless of how much tread is left.
Sign #14 You get fewer miles per gallon than usual
If you’re getting fewer miles per gallon than expected, it’s a sign that there’s something wrong with your car. This could be caused by a clogged fuel filter or an incorrectly tuned engine. So if you’re noticing that you’re getting fewer miles per gallon, take your car in for a tune-up
Sign #15 The car is over ten years old
If your car is over ten years old, it’s a sign that it may need more maintenance and repairs than a newer car. This is because older cars tend to have more wear and tear. So if your vehicle is over ten years old, make sure to take it in for regular checkups and repairs.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to take your car in for a diagnostic as soon as possible to avoid further damage and expensive repairs. Don’t wait until something breaks down entirely because it may be too late to save it by then.
