A Guide to Fixing Common Car Problems and Saving Money

What to Do When Your Car Breaks Down: Common Problems and Solutions

Your car is an important asset, and keeping it in good condition is crucial for your safety and convenience. However, even with regular maintenance, it’s inevitable that your car will experience some common problems. It can be frustrating and inconvenient when your car breaks down, but with the help of a reliable car service center, you can get back on the road quickly. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some common problems and how a service center can help you.

Dead Battery

A dead battery is one of the most frequently found car troubles anyone can experience. A dying battery will take longer to crank the engine to get started, while a dead battery will not start the car at all. This can happen when the battery can no longer hold a charge or when it’s drained due to leaving your headlights on. A faulty alternator or starter can also cause the battery to die. Not using the battery for longer periods of time may cause the charges to deplete or it may not provide enough charge due to the corroded terminals.

To minimize the risk of battery faults, it’s advisable to periodically check and clean the battery terminals and cables to remove any corrosion or dirt. You should check the battery voltage regularly and recharge it if it falls below 12.6 volts; you can use a multimeter to measure the battery voltage and a wire brush to clean the terminals.

For immediate assistance with your dead battery or to schedule a health check-up, contact us now.

Flat Tire

One of the most common car problems is a flat tire. This happens when the air inside the tire leaks out causing the tire to lose its shape and contact with the road. A flat tire can have various causes such as:

A puncture: When a sharp object such as a nail, glass or a metal pierces through the tire and creates a hole. A puncture can be hard to notice at first, but it will gradually make the tire lose air pressure and become flat.

Improper tire pressure: This is when the tire has either too much or too little air pressure. Excessive pressure can make the tire prone to bursting, while inadequate pressure can make the tire wear out faster increasing the risk of a blowout. It is important to check the tire pressure regularly and adjust it as recommended by the manufacturer.
Worn-out tires: This is when the tire tread which is the pattern of grooves on the surface of the tire becomes too thin or uneven. Tire treads helps the tire on griping the road and prevents skidding especially in wet or slippery conditions. Worn-out tires can reduce the traction and handling of the car. Therefore, making the tire more vulnerable to punctures and blowouts. It is advisable to replace the tires when the tread depth reaches the minimum level indicated by the wear bars on the tire.

Overheating

Overheating is usually caused by a malfunctioning cooling system or a leak in the radiator. Driving in extreme heat or towing heavy loads can also cause your car to overheat.

Engine Misfire

An engine misfire happens when one or more cylinders fail to ignite properly. This can be caused by a faulty spark plug, ignition coil, or fuel injector.

Transmission Problems

Transmission problems can manifest in various ways, such as slipping gears, rough shifting, or leaking fluid. It can be caused by worn-out gears, a damaged torque converter, or a faulty transmission control module.

Power Steering Wheel

Power steering wheel is a system that helps the driver steer the car with less effort. However, it can also have some problems that affect the steering performance and safety. Some of the common issues are:

Unresponsive steering: This happens when the steering wheel does not respond to the driver’s input or feels stiff and hard to turn. This can be caused by low or contaminated power steering fluid, loose or worn power steering belt, faulty power steering pump or clogged power steering hose or line. To solve this problem, check the fluid level and condition, replace or flush it if needed. Also, inspect the belt, pump and hose for any damage or leaks, repair or replace them if necessary.
Noisy steering: This happens when the steering wheel makes a whining, squealing or groaning sound when turning. This can be caused by low power steering fluid, air in the power steering system or worn or damaged power steering components. To solve this problem, check the fluid level and add more if needed. Also bleed the air from the system and check the pump, rack and pinion for any wear or damage, replace them if needed.
Steering wheel vibration: This happens when the steering wheel shakes or vibrates when driving. This can be caused by unbalanced or misaligned wheels, loose or worn steering or suspension parts or warped brake rotors. To solve this problem, balance and align the wheels and tighten or replace any loose or worn parts. Also, check the brake rotors for any warping or damage and resurface or replace them if needed.

Brake Problems

Brakes making a noise when pressed? They can be caused by worn-out brake pads, a malfunctioning master cylinder, or a brake fluid leak. Brake problems can be dangerous and should be addressed immediately; they can damage your cars performance and safety.

How a Service Center Can Save You Time and Money on Car Repairs

If you own a car, you know how frustrating and inconvenient it can be when it breaks down or needs repairs. You may wonder what’s wrong with your car, how much it will cost to fix it and how long it will take to get it back on the road. That’s why you need a reliable and professional service center that can help you with any car problem you may have. At our service center, we have the necessary tools and expertise to diagnose, repair and maintain your car quickly and efficiently. Here’s how we can save you time and money on car repairs:

Diagnosis of the Problem: One of the most important roles of our service center is to diagnose the problem accurately. We have the latest diagnostic equipment and trained technicians to identify the root cause of the issue and recommend the appropriate solution. We will explain to you what’s wrong with your car, what needs to be done to fix it and how much it will cost. We will also answer any questions you may have and give you honest and transparent advice.
Repair or Replacement of Part: Once the problem has been identified, we can repair or replace the faulty parts. We use only genuine and high-quality parts to ensure that your car is safe and reliable. We have a large inventory of parts for different makes and models of cars, so we can get your car fixed as soon as possible. We also offer a warranty on our parts and labor, so you can have peace of mind that your car is in good hands.
Regular Maintenance and Inspection: Regular maintenance and inspection are essential to prevent major car problems from happening. Our service center can perform routine maintenance tasks, such as:
- Oil changes
- Filter replacements
- Tire rotations

For all your vehicle inspection needs including pre-purchase car inspections, our garage offers a comprehensive range of services. Explore our guide on pre-purchase car inspections for more information.

DIY Car Maintenance Tips

Checking Tire Pressure and Tread Depth: Proper tire pressure and tread depth are essential for safe and efficient driving. Check your tire pressure regularly and replace your tires when the tread depth is below the legal limit.

Checking Fluid Levels: Your car’s fluids, such as oil, coolant and brake fluid, should be checked regularly. Low fluid levels can cause major car problems, so it’s essential to keep them topped up.
Changing Air Filters: Air filters keep your car’s engine clean and running smoothly. They should be replaced regularly to ensure optimal performance.
Cleaning the Car: Regular cleaning can prevent rust and damage to your car’s paint. Wash your car regularly and use appropriate cleaning products to keep it in good condition.

Conclusion

Owning a car is a great convenience, but it also comes with some responsibilities and challenges. You need to take good care of your car and address any problems as soon as they arise. By doing so, you can ensure that your car performs well and lasts longer. You can also avoid costly and stressful breakdowns and repairs. Most importantly, you can drive safely and confidently on the road. Remember, your car is not just a machine, it’s an investment and a partner. Treat it well and it will treat you well.