From strange issues to alarming warning lights, car troubles can be frustrating. Here’s a list of five common vehicle issues and how to fix them:
Car Not Starting
There is nothing more frustrating than turning the key or pushing the start button after a long day at work, only to find out the car isn’t working. This can be caused by numerous Vehicle Issues, such as
- Empty fuel tank
- Dead battery
- Faulty starter motor
- Ignition system problems
- Blown fuse
- Locked steering wheel
A dead battery is the most common cause of car trouble and is pretty easy to fix. Clean the battery terminals with a wire brush and check the water levels in the battery cells.
If common troubleshooting steps don’t work, call for roadside assistance or a mechanic.
Vehicle Pulling to One Side
If your car is pulling to one side while driving, it is most likely a tire issue. More specifically, uneven tire pressure and wear create an imbalance, causing the car to pull to one side.
Misaligned wheels could also be causing problems. When your car repeatedly hits potholes and curbs, it can damage suspension components and cause pulling.
Here’s what you can do:
- Make sure all four tires are inflated to the recommended pressure.
- Rotate the tires periodically to prevent uneven tire wear.
- Get the braking and suspension components checked by a professional.
- Have a professional perform a wheel alignment.
Squeaking and Grinding Noise
A squeaking or grinding noise while driving can indicate a lot of Vehicle Issues, such as:
- Worn brake pads
- Damaged rotors
- Stones or debris stuck in the brakes
- Sticking or faulty calipers
- Loose gas cap
- Damaged serpentine belt
First off, note when the noise occurs, such as braking, turning, or driving at specific speeds. Most of the time, you’ll need to replace worn-out parts. Always choose a reliable used auto parts supplier, such as Ovoko, to keep your vehicle working at optimal efficiency.
High Fuel Consumption
When the fuel expense starts to burn a hole in your wallet, take a breath and look under the hood. High fuel consumption is one of the most common and expensive vehicle issues many car owners face. It is caused by:
- Clogged air filters
- Faulty spark plugs
- Low tire pressure
- Malfunctioning oxygen sensor
- Faulty fuel injectors
- Wrong engine oil
High fuel consumption is also caused by certain driving habits, such as:
- Aggressive driving
- Excessive idling
- Speeding
Regular maintenance, like checking tire pressure, replacing filters, and using the right fuel grade, can help bring fuel consumption to the optimal level.
Leaking Fluids
Fluid leaks are easy to overlook, but they can cause serious issues. First off, identify where the fluid is coming from. Here’s a brief breakdown:
Engine oil – dark brown or black with syrup-like consistency. Engine oil leakage is caused by engine damage.
Coolant – bright green, pink, or orange with a sweet smell. Coolant oil is caused by a damaged radiator or water pump.
Power steering fluid – clear or red. It is caused by a faulty steering wheel pump or hose.
Brake fluid – clear or slightly yellowish. It indicates potential brake failure.
Once you’ve identified the leak source, get it inspected by a mechanic.
