What Are Some Common Car Problems?

From time to time, everyone finds that they’ve got a problem with their car. If you do develop a problem, it’s never a good idea to ignore it; taking care of a minor issue as soon as it happens is the best way to avoid huge repair bills later. Safety is another concern, too. Keeping your car in good condition is the best way to keep your family safe when you’re out on the road.

This list covers the most common problems encountered in newer cars. If you have an older vehicle, it may not be on this list, and there are a lot of other issues that are not included. 

1. Dead Start

A dead starter means that your car won’t be able to start. It’s usually one of two things: your starter failed, or your battery is dead. You turn the ignition key, and it just doesn’t start, all you hear is a click. Starters have a solenoid in the column, or a starter relay, which allows the electric current to move from the starter motor in response to a small control current, setting the engine in motion. Whenever possible, periodic checks are carried out on the main components of your starter motor to see if anything needs to be fixed or replaced. A dead starter can easily be a problem with a spark plug, or the starter relay needs some adjustment.

2. The Steering Wheel is Shaking

There are a number of reasons why a steering wheel is shaking when driving a vehicle. Damaged suspension components or wheel bearings are usually blamed if this happens immediately after you start the car and pull it away. If the wheel shakes at higher speeds, the tyre / wheel balance is more often at issue. You will need to take the car for proper mechanical inspection to resolve this. It could be as simple a fix as aligning your wheels.

3. Alternator Problems

The alternator keeps the battery in check and keeps it charged. If you have problems with your alternator, your car will not be able to start or break down in the middle of the road. Signs of a failed alternator include constant battery problems, unusual engine rattling, and electrical failure. Age could be one reason why your alternator gives you problems, so keep track of how old your alternator is and have it replaced if it’s been in service for years. The above signs are what you need to look for if you need to replace your alternator.

4. Flat Tires

Obviously, a tyre will be flat if it is punctured, but it can also be caused by normal wear and tear. Keeping the tyres rotated in accordance with the manufacturer ‘s instructions may help to prolong their life. The best practice is to rotate a tire when you change your engine oil or every 5,000 miles.

5. Radiator Leaks

If your air conditioning starts to fail[5], and your car leaves a coolant trail on the street and on the driveway, then you have a leak in the radiator. A faulty radiator could mean that your engine would overheat and leave you stranded at the worst possible time. Just check all the connectors in your car to make sure they ‘re in place. Replace immediately if there is damage. Work out a coolant maintenance schedule by flushing out and replacing the coolant regularly.

6. The Car Gives Out Excessive Emissions

The emission system is designed to minimize pollution while ensuring that your car is running properly. The system includes a lot of sensitive equipment that can fail from time to time and cause a variety of different problems in the car. For example, an O2 sensor that is defective may start affecting the fuel mixture, leading to inefficiencies in the running and economy of the vehicle.

7. Sputtering Engine

The engine works best when air and fuel are properly mixed and burned in the combustion chamber. A number of fuel and ignition system components must work together to efficiently complete this process. Although many moving parts help the engine to run properly, engine sputtering or misfire is one of the main problems. To reduce engine misfire or sputtering problems, please ensure that the fuel and ignition system components are replaced as recommended by your manufacturer.

8. Poor Fuel Economy

When the engine is running efficiently, it burns fuel at a rate that helps to improve fuel economy. However, several fuel system components, such as fuel filters, air filters, mass air flow sensors, and O2 sensors, will eventually become dirty or wear out. If this happens before they are replaced, the engine will consume more fuel than usual. Again, the solution is to be proactive about routine servicing.

9. Brakes Squeaking or Grinding

Like any other moving part of your car, the brake system is designed to be worn out over a specified period of time. Brakes are vital for safe stopping, so that any symptoms of problems, such as squealing, squeaking or soft brake pedals, should be checked by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. While minor problems may cause squeaking or squealing noise, once the brakes begin to grind, it is a definite sign that must be replaced.

10. Rust

It can come as a shock to find rust on your car, even though it’s not always a serious issue, depending on where the rust is found. Rust on body work is cosmetic, but rust beneath the car or on your exhaust could be potentially dangerous and should be investigated as it could be eaten away by essential components.

Rust needs an anode, a cathode, and an electrolyte to form that makes cars prone to it. If the weather is humid enough, your car can develop rust even if it’s under cover. The metal in your car can act as an anode, and the water can act as an electrolyte. A quick check around your vehicle, under the wheel arches and around the exhaust on a regular basis is often enough to spot any rust problem, but every few months, especially if you live in a damp or humid environment, it would be a good idea to get on your hands and knees and check your vehicle thoroughly.

All in all, your car problems can be solved by giving your car a regular maintenance schedule and always cleaning it inside and out. Also, understand the terms of repair and maintenance of your manufacturer or car insurance provider. It would also be a good idea to know which centers you can get discounts, so you’re prepared for any kind of emergency.