If you’ve ever owned a car, especially an old one, you’re familiar with the host of car problems that can arise. With regular use, even cars of the highest quality get worn down and require repairs or maintenance. Here are some common issues with your car that you may be experiencing.
Warning Lights
Warning lights come on in your car when sensors in the car detect an error. That error is registered by the engine control unit, and a warning light specific to the issue appears. There are over 200 warning codes, so if you don’t recognize the one your car is showing, take it to a mechanic to be checked out.
Poor Fuel Economy
As your car ages, you may notice its fuel economy begins to drop. This happens when a car’s engine becomes worn out, causing the car to burn more fuel for the same mileage. To avoid this issue, regularly perform maintenance on your car’s engine.
Dead Battery
Car batteries die either because they are old or because they have been accidentally drained by something like a light left on in the car. While batteries can be jump-started, it is advisable to replace your car’s battery every three to six years.
Engine Sputtering
To function properly, an engine needs the right combination of air and fuel to burn and create a combustion. If the air or fuel level is too low, it results in a sputtering engine. Keep your fuel and ignition systems in good repair to avoid this issue.
Worn Brake Pads
With regular use, brake pads naturally wear down. Left unrepaired, worn brake pads are a serious safety hazard. You’ll know your brake pads are wearing down if you hear grinding or squealing from your car as you brake.
Steering Wheel Issues
You may wonder what it means when your car is shaking, drifting, or is suddenly much harder to turn than usual. All of these are issues related to the steering wheel, and any of these symptoms may be a sign that you need to check the alignment of your wheels, power steering mechanism, or gear shift of your car.
With the proper repairs, each of these common issues with your car can be handled. However, it is best to avoid these issues altogether by keeping all aspects of your car properly maintained. Check your car regularly, and if you notice that it has any issues, address them right away to avoid a bigger problem down the line.
