If you have a car, there is no doubt that it needs repairs from time to time. We all know that cars are expensive machines and they can break down at any moment. And when this happens, you are not only limited to the expenses involved with the repair of your car but also likely to be unable to drive it anywhere.
This means that you are stuck without a car to get you where you need to go. Unfortunately, there are times when your car is not noisily protesting the fact that it needs repairs. But what are the signs of this? What are the warning signs your car gives you before an actual mechanical problem arises? Let’s look at some everyday things that you should look for to indicate your car needs repairs.
- Acknowledge That Your Car Is Speaking To You – The first step is to realize that your car does give you quite a few hints that there is a problem going on with it. Generally, cars do not just break down entirely without giving you some warning. There are various ways in which your car can tell you that there is something wrong, and it would be wise to pay attention to these signs. For example, if your engine does not sound right or makes unusual noises while you drive, there is an issue with the engine block getting too hot. Even if you cannot determine the problem with your car yourself, at least you will know that there is most likely a problem.
- Listen For Unusual Noises – Of course, it’s not only engine noises that indicate possible problems. Other sounds could mean that something is wrong. For example, if your car makes a loud knocking noise, this is likely something to do with the way your gear shifts, and it could lead to more problems if not dealt with right away. If you hear a scraping or crunching sound when you brake, the problem is most likely nothing serious and can probably be fixed for under $500.
- New Car Smell – It’s not uncommon for new cars to have a distinct smell when you first use them. However, suppose your car still has the same odor after you’ve had it for a year or two, and it is starting to blow hot air. In that case, this could indicate all sorts of problems like needing a tune-up, an oil change, cracks in the radiator, a clogged catalytic converter, or even a leak in your air conditioner.
- Check For Warning Lights – Most cars nowadays have warning lights that tell you when there is something wrong with it. It’s usually best to consult a manual for your specific car model and determine what each light stands for. Standard warning lights include the “check engine” light, the “service engine soon” light, and more. If one of these lights comes on, it’s best to get your car checked out right away.
