5 Signs You Need to Get Auto Maintenance Done on Your Vehicle
Do you have a regular auto maintenance schedule for your car? Whether it’s an annual service check or a kick of the tires once in a while, most people understand that a car will last longer if it is well maintained.
But how can you tell if your car is in need of maintenance? Of course, there are warning lights that can signify a problem, but regular maintenance can help prevent any of these warning lights from showing up.
We’re going to take a look at some signs to look out for that will tell you it’s time to get your car checked out.
1. Strange Noises
One of the most obvious signs that your car is in need of some TLC is when you hear noises that you aren’t used to. Here’s a quick summary of what certain noises mean:
- Scraping—the brake pads are likely worn
- Knocking—there may be an engine issue or the wrong type of fuel has been put in
- Droning—a hole in the exhaust can cause a low, droning sound
- Flapping—you may have a flat tire
If you hear any of these sounds, it’s a good idea to drop into your service center.
2. Change in Performance
If you feel like your car is underperforming, it could be a sign that there’s something wrong.
If the accelerator feels unresponsive, a likely problem is that the fuel filter is clogged or dirty. This means that there isn’t enough fuel getting into the engine so it will be inefficient.
3. Pools of Liquid Under the Car
If it has been raining, pools of water underneath your car are completely normal. Cars are designed in such a way that water won’t gather or pool within the working parts, so it’ll naturally drip down if it has been wet.
If the weather has been dry and you find pools of oil or water underneath the car, it’s certainly worth getting checked out.
4. Brakes Working Inefficiently
Over time, brake pads will wear down, making them less efficient. You may notice that you’re having to press the brake pedal further down to achieve the desired level of stopping power.
If you don’t have your brake pads changed regularly, your car isn’t as safe as it could be.
5. Overheating Engine
An overheating engine is a big red flag and could mean a number of things. Most of the time, however, it means that the engine is in need of a service.
The purpose of oil in your engine is to lubricate the moving parts and reduce friction. If the oil is old, or the level is low, there will be more friction.
Friction generates heat, and so this is why you may get a high-temperature reading.
Look Out for These Auto Maintenance Signs
Ignorance certainly isn’t bliss when it comes to auto maintenance. If you’ve been ignoring some of the above signs for a while, it’s time to look into a car repair service.
Even if you feel like your car is running perfectly well, regular maintenance is important and could save you money on repairs in the long term.
If you are concerned that your car may be in need of repair, don’t hesitate to get in touch.