Has your car been making some weird noises lately? Does it shake as you accelerate or clunks as you turn a corner? It's not uncommon for cars to make strange noises from time to time. Often, those noises are not an urgent issue. However, some clunks and shakes need attention immediately.
Our auto experts at Orthodox Auto Company have identified 10 car problems you should never ignore. This list will guide you to pay more attention to your vehicle's maintenance needs. The chances are high that you could simply purchase a used auto part to address the problem.
10 Car Problems You Should Never Ignore
Tire Bulges
Tire bulges can result from hitting a piece of debris or from over-inflating your tires. They are air bubbles in the sidewall where air has forced its way through the inner lining. They're a visible weak point that can burst unexpectedly. To avoid a dangerous situation, replace bulging tires immediately.
Jerky Shifting
Shifting from one gear to another should be a breeze. But if your car shifts roughly or jerks when shifting, there's a problem that needs fixing. This problem can commonly be traced back to your transmission. Other common causes of jerky shifts include worn clutches, stripped gears, and low transmission fluid. Whatever the cause, the problem will get worse each time your car changes gears, potentially leading to total transmission failure. A new transmission can cost thousands of dollars; however, you could settle for a used or refurbished transmission. Used transmissions cost way less and do the job excellently.
Brake Problems
Your car's braking system is one of the most important safety parts. The braking system brings the car to a halt when in motion. A squealing or squeaking braking system usually indicates wear and tear. It also tells you it's time for a new set of brake pads.
Brake pads have a metal tab that becomes exposed as pad material wears away. When this tab contacts the brake rotor, it makes a high-pitched sound. It's an audible signal that the pads need to be replaced, and the longer you wait, the worse the sound (and your braking ability) will become.
Please note that buying used brake pads from any junkyard is not advisable or recommended. Contact your local auto repair shop for brake pad replacements.
Smoke
Get out of your car immediately if you see or smell smoke! For safety reasons, it is never advisable to drive a smoky car. Many things could cause your car to smoke, but common culprits are leaking fluids, electrical issues, or a seized brake caliper. If you drive it before the problem is located and fixed, your car could catch on fire.
Check Engine Light
The Check Engine Light isn't just another indicator light to be ignored. It is a warning sign telling you about a potential problem with your vehicle's engine. With Check Engine Lights, you never know what it is until you visit an auto repair shop for diagnostics or use a diagnostic tool.
Seeking help as quickly as you see the Check Engine Light is advisable. This is because you can't readily tell if the problem is a major or minor one or whether it affects your vehicle's electrical or mechanical parts. When it comes to your engine, it's better to be safe than sorry. Get it checked out as soon as you can.
Misalignment or Wobbly Steering
Alignment issues can put you and other road users at risk. Your vehicle should be able to maintain a straight line during motion until it is impacted. Leaving alignment issues unattended puts you at risk of veering off the road and affects your tires. Misalignment can wear out your tires faster, costing you more money.
Contact your auto repair shop as quickly as possible after noticing this problem.
Cracked Windshield
A cracked windshield may not look like a big problem to you. However, it's a safety issue waiting to escalate. Driving around with a windshield chip or crack can be unsafe and can put you at risk in certain situations. This problem should be fixed as soon as possible by visiting an auto glass repair shop.
You can also visit a used auto parts store for affordable windshields in pristine condition.
Low Fuel Warning Light
Some drivers see the low fuel warning light as a suggestion rather than a threat. In most cases, leaving your vehicle gasping for gas can damage more things than you can imagine.
Low fuel levels expose your vehicle to the contaminants that have settled at the bottom of the tank. It can also be damaging to your fuel pump and engine. Treat this warning sign as much of a warning rather than a suggestion.
Strange Noises
All drivers should pay attention to their cars and the sound. Certain sounds are unusual and may indicate a problem waiting to happen. You should visit your auto repair technician if you start hearing strange noises, clunks, or humming sounds from under your car. Common culprits may include a failing transmission, bearing problems, or worn universal joints.
Broken License Plates
It doesn't cost much to fix a broken license plate. However, ignoring it can mean a huge fine when caught by the appropriate authorities. Save money today by fixing your broken license plate.
Look no further than Orthodox Auto if you end up in the mechanic's shop with car problems and your car needs replacement parts. We have one of the largest collections of used auto parts in the Philadelphia and South Jersey areas. Contact us at (215) 608-3270 for assistance or search our online inventory now.