Buying a reliable used car or even a new car will result in the occasional mechanical problem. With any car, this experience is inevitable because wear and tear on the vehicle will result in a component breakdown. That said, if you are aware of the different signs that indicate types of mechanical or component problems a car can experience, you can ensure that you do not breakdown even though the parts are on the verge of doing so. These signs are typically audible or visual, but sometimes they can be tactile in that the car might shimmy or drive a little differently than it has in the past.
1. Black oil
Fresh oil keeps the inner parts of your car lubricated. Without this lubrication, the parts will grind. As they grind against each other, the parts can fuse together from the excess heat. If this happens, your car will lock up. Additionally, the parts can simply wear away and warp, causing the engine or other parts of the car to not run smoothly.
The sign of fresh oil is that the oil will be translucent or golden brown. It will have a sheen to it. As the oil does its job, however, it turns black from being repeatedly heated. If the oil is heated too often, it loses its ability to act as a protecting film within your engine. For the best protection, you will need to find a reliable and certified mechanic to change the oil and keep your vehicle running.
2. Pull to the left or right
You might have noticed that the steering wheel might pull against the hand pressure you apply as you drive. If the steering wheel pulls, it means that the tires on your car need to be inspected.
One problem is that the tires might be wearing incorrectly. In this type of case, you will need to have the tires rotated by a professional.
Similarly, the tires might be out of balance. If this is the case, you should find a mechanic that provides general auto service. Once your tires are realigned, the steering wheel will remain straight and not pull.
3. Hard start on cold mornings
On a cold morning, if the engine attempts to turn over but lags until the third or fourth cycle, your battery is probably dying. Although most people might think that cold weather is the only thing that can drain a battery, excess heat can ruin a battery as well. For instance, you might run your vehicle all summer long while extreme heat slowly degrades your battery. When winter arrives, the battery no longer has the ability to crank your engine.
Because batteries in modern cars are often situated in places that are difficult to reach, it is best to have a mechanic in Seven Hills change the old battery and test the newly installed battery.
4. Squealing brakes
On your car’s brake pads are tiny tabs. When you brake, the brake pads clamp or press on the rotor of your wheel. However, over time, the pads wear away. If these tabs are exposed and press against the rotor, they emit a grinding squeal. This squeal is designed as a type of warning system to let you know your brakes are in need of some serious repair.
When your brakes start squealing, you should locate a mechanic capable of verifying the problem and changing old brakes as it is nearly impossible for a car owner to change brakes on his or her own. Additionally, if you let this problem continue, screws in the brake pads can eventually be exposed. When the screws are exposed, they will press into the rotor. When this happens, they will grind a little path in your rotor, which could lead to expensive rotor replacement.
5. Overheating
You will know if your car is overheating if two things occur. The first is that the heat gauge on your dashboard will indicate high temperatures. The second is that steam can begin pouring from under your hood. This is a big but easily solved problem.
Any time you get an oil change or tire change, you should have your mechanic top off all fluids, including the radiator fluid.
Autobiography
Eric Reyes is a passionate thought leader having been featured in 50 distinguished online and offline platforms. His passion and knowledge in Finance and Business made him a sought after contributor providing valuable insights to his readers. You can find him reading a book and discussing current events in his spare time.
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