Car Problems and Ways to Prevent Them

Routine service and maintenance of a vehicle is an essential part of keeping the car in good running condition. Several car problems may be caused by various factors like wear and tear. And those issues can range from simple issues to serious problems that could prevent the vehicle from fully operating. This problem may also not affect the whole driving experience; however, it may prevent the driver from driving the car at all. Nonetheless, it is important to remember that when car issues arise and the vehicle starts to show warning signs, the driver must be able to quickly identify the problems so that it can be repaired immediately and thus reduce the potential for breakdown and more expensive repairs as car damage is progressive.

We listed down the most common problems that drivers encounter to help you identify those problems when you happen to be in the same situation.

1. Dead Battery

A normal car battery should normally last for about three years before you replace them. However, if you tend to replace your battery more often, then it can be a sign of a faulty one. The battery is surely one of the most important components in a vehicle since it is the one responsible for providing electricity to your car to allow you to start it and use such other functions as car lighting, air conditioning, the radio, among others.

A dead battery is usually caused by reduced amps or electrical currents, which is also naturally decreased when the battery has become incapable of maintaining a charge. It is then expedited by damage in the alternator, or battery temperature sensor or other charging system components. Should you encounter this problem while driving, the best thing to do is to pull over and jump start your car battery using cables connected to another person’s car battery. While this is merely a temporary solution, but it will give you enough time to go to the nearest car repair center.

2. Flat Tires

By simple wear and tear, the car’s tires may be flat. Or it can also be caused by striking an object or being punctured by something on the road. Nonetheless, the lifespan of tires may be extended when you keep them properly rotated. It is also the same with having soft tires that are encountered by every driver regularly and may be felt especially when traversing a rougher terrain. Soft tires can make the handling of the car much difficult and more uncomfortable for the driver. Aside from that, it also more dangerous and exposes the driver to more risk of accidents.

3. Overheating

You might think that overheating happens more frequently than other car issues, but in reality, it rarely happens. Although modern cars have developed more sophisticated cooling systems that keep the car temperature at optimal levels, it may still happen due to various reasons. It may be because of low water levels and coolant, which results in a car engine struggling to keep itself cool. In order to prevent overheating, the driver must stay on top of the radiator flush services as well as change the water pump before it breaks.

4. Leaking Fluids

This one is one of the more common problems drivers encounter regularly. The leaking fluid may be the motor oil, radiator coolant, or just water but it is still very important to prevent them from happening which can be done by regularly checking the engine, exhaust, and radiator for any cracks that may be present in such areas as they usually the place where the leaks begin to occur. In case there are cracks present, the best way to solve the problem is by sealing them if the crack is just a small fissure. But it the crack is beyond repair, then the best solution is to replace the whole unit instead.

5. Faulty Starter Motor

The process of driving a car begins by cranking the engine over, which is the responsibility of the starter motor. The failure of this component is usually by reason of the electrical solenoid being damaged or when such motor breaks or when another electrical failure occurs like a starter relay. Starter motors are replaceable; however, it is difficult to predict when its breakdown will occur. Therefore, the best preventive measure in order to avoid the hassle due to this issue is to have a car starting inspection to properly determine the problem whether it is really caused by a faulty starter.

6. Shaking Steering Wheel

The shaking of the steering wheel while driving may be caused by multiple reasons and depending on when it starts to shake. If the shaking begins right after you start the car and hit the road, it may be due to damage in the wheel bearings or suspension components. On the other hand, if the shaking occurs while driving at a higher speed, balance issues of the tire or wheel may be the source. Either way, when it happens, have your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic to correctly diagnose the issue and apply a solution that is appropriate.

When you experience any of the foregoing car problems, it is best to consult your trusted mechanics to properly determine the root cause of the issue so that when there is proper diagnosis, an appropriate response to such issues will be applied. More importantly, it is true that prevention is always better than cure. To avoid many types of car problems that affect its performance, it is imperative that you prevent them from happening in the first place by having your car routinely serviced and properly maintained. Most of all, having knowledge of all the possible problems a car may encounter is the very first step in its prevention. So make sure that you take good care of your car to maintain its good working condition.