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Common Car Problems

What are some common car problems?

Common Car Problems And What To Do About Them

What are some common car problems? Read below about why your car may start giving you some problems and what to do to avoid them.

Regular maintenance and service are essential to keeping your car, truck, or SUV running well. It is inevitable that there will be car problems from time to time, and all vehicles will show a few warning signs as a result. Below you will find a list of the 8 most common car problems to help you avoid breakdowns and costly repairs.

What are the 4 most common car problems?

Dashboard Warning Lights

The most common problem for US car, truck, and SUV owners is a warning light. These lights come on when the ECU (engine control unit) detects an error code. The most effective way to determine the source and make the right repairs is to have a professional mechanic complete a warning light inspection to determine the issue.

Overheating

Coolant temperature, flow, and other components are monitored by multiple sensors in modern cars' cooling systems. You can reduce the likelihood of overheating by keeping up with radiator flush services and changing the water pump before it breaks.

Engine Misfire

Fuel and air mix and burn more efficiently in the combustion chamber when they are properly mixed. A series of fuel and ignition system components must work together efficiently to complete this process. The sputtering or misfiring of an engine is one of the leading problems in engines, even though there are numerous moving parts that help the engine run properly. Replace fuel and ignition system components according to your manufacturer's recommendations to reduce engine misfiring or sputtering.

Dead Battery

Generally, car batteries last three to five years or 50,000 miles. It is usually the loss of the battery's ability to maintain a charge that leads to a dead battery caused by a reduced amp - or electrical current - or generally referred to as a dead battery. It may be caused by a damaged alternator, battery temperature sensor, or other charging system components. Your car battery should be replaced every 50,000 miles or three years, even if it doesn't show any signs of wear.

What are the best ways to avoid car problems?

    You can avoid common car problems by regularly servicing and maintaining your vehicle as per the vehicles manufacturers requirements. Avoiding common problems are easy when you take care of your vehicle correctly.

    Remember to change your oil at recommended intervals, follow factory recommendations for engine oil and filters, and notify your dealer right away if there are any concerns. Also, check your engine oil regularly.

    Make sure the fuel doesn't dip below a quarter tank. Driving with low gas is terrible for any car as it causes the electric fuel-pump motor to suck in air and wear out prematurely.

    You should also rotate your tires about every 7,500 miles or every six months, according to most manufacturers. By not rotating your tires the tread can wear down unevenly to create a rough, potentially unstable and dangerous driving experience.

    Buying a car off the street is never a smart idea! When customers purchase from a reputable dealer, they avoid potential car problems in the future because the cars are thoroughly inspected before they are sold.

    Speaking of peace of mind, get a free quote with Total Auto Protect now to protect your vehicle from expensive repair costs with an extended car warranty. Then relax: You’re well on your way to joining the “no car problems” club.
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How to know if your car is having a problem?

There are many ways in which cars and trucks communicate problems to the driver. If your car is trying to tell you something it's important to pay attention to it so you can get to the repair shop right away. It is always cheaper to fix the problem now rather than wait until it is worse and more expensive to do so later. Take your car to the repair shop right away if you notice any of these signs.

Weird Noises - Most car problems have weird sounds or noises that will usually tell you what's wrong. Low brake pads, for instance, will cause loud squealing when you hit the brakes. An engine that clicks instead of starting when you turn the key can also be a sign of a failing starter.

Odd Smells - Smells are also something that will help you determine what problem your car might be having. There are a few which are more common, such as the gym bag or sweat smell. This often indicates mold in the vents, or the sweet syrup smell, which can indicate leaking coolant.

Strange Vibrations - Do you feel your car shaking and shimmying? Definitely not a good thing. There are many car problems that can cause vibrations, including poor wheel alignment, which will make the steering wheel rock back and forth, as well as exhaust leaks that can cause the gas pedal to vibrate.

If your car is giving you any sort of trouble don't hesitate to have it checked out before the issue gets worse.

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