The Top 8 Common Car Repairs
Even the most reliable cars need a repair once in a while. Whether it’s a battery replacement, or new tires, the need to see a mechanic at some point in your driving career is inevitable as your car ages. However, diagnosing the problem at hand may prove to be a difficult task — as different indicators could mean a number of issues. Being aware of the most common car repairs can help you be informed and remain calm when you’re having car troubles.
Continue reading to learn all about the top eight common car repairs performed on reliable vehicles.
The Importance of Regular Car Maintenance
Addressing your car’s basic needs with regular car maintenance will help you avoid major, and expensive, repairs. After all, your car is made up of so many different working parts that need to be kept in good shape in order for your car to function properly. Additionally, understanding your car’s needs will help you diagnose potential issues.
However, regular maintenance doesn’t just prevent problems, it can improve your vehicle’s performance. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, regular tune-ups can increase your car’s fuel economy by an average of 4%. So, not only are you preventing the chance of a breakdown, you’re saving money at the pump! Most technicians will suggest having a full inspection done on your car every 12 months, along with a standard oil change every 5-10k miles.
Learn more: How to Stay Up-To-Date on Your Car Maintenance This Winter
8 Common Car Repairs on Reliable Cars
1. Warning Lights on Your Dash
A warning or check engine light illuminating your dashboard is one of the most common issues for car owners. These lights warn you that your vehicle’s engine control unit (ECU) has detected an error, and should definitely not be ignored. There are well over 100 different dashboard warning lights, so if your dash is lit up like a Christmas tree, it’s best that you consult with a mechanic to diagnose and resolve the problem.
2. Dead Battery
No battery can last forever. Most mechanics will agree that car batteries will likely need to be replaced every three years, however that can fluctuate depending on how often you drive your car, and the conditions you live in. Your battery can die for a number of reasons, for example; if you leave your headlights or interior lights on, a charging system failure, or corrosion. Thankfully, a dead battery is an easy fix and shouldn’t cost you too much money.
3. Flat Tires
Almost everyone has dealt with a flat tire at some point in their driving career — making it one of the more common car repairs. While most tires become flat due to being punctured, or running over a sharp object while driving, sometimes people experience flat tires due to simple wear and tear. The best advice is to have your tires rotated roughly every 5,000 miles to avoid having to replace them all together.
4. Shaking Steering Wheel
If you notice your steering wheel shaking during your drive, it could be due to multiple reasons. If you notice the shaking occurs only when stopping or slowing down your vehicle, it is likely because of warped brake rotors. When your rotors become bent, your brake pads will press against an uneven surface, causing your steering wheel to shake. However, if you experience your steering wheel shaking when you’re traveling at high speeds, it’s likely due to an issue with your tire and wheel balance.
5. Grinding or Squeaking Brakes
A grinding or squeaking sound coming from your brakes likely means that your brake pad material has worn away and needs replacing. However, this occurrence is common among reliable vehicles because just like any other moving part on your car, the brake system is intended to wear out over an extended period of time. Simply bring your car into a mechanics shop and they will replace your brake pads, eliminating the harsh sounds.
6. Sputtering Engine
If you are dealing with a sputtering engine, it is most likely due to an issue with the vehicle’s fuel system — the filter, pump, and injectors. These critical components of your vehicle are responsible for ensuring fuel flows smoothly from the fuel tank, to your engine’s fuel injectors, and pumps into the engine properly. However, this issue can also be caused by spark issues from bad spark plugs or ignition coils. If you experience your engine sputtering, it’s wise to consult with your mechanic to find the true cause and fix the problem.
7. Cracked Windshield
More often than not, a cracked windshield is due to an object impacting the glass. Unfortunately this can happen to any car, and is likely not due to any fault of the driver, as most cracks occur when rocks or objects fall off of dump trucks or are kicked up by other cars tires. Although some cracks may just seem like a cosmetic problem, you should always opt for having your windshield replaced when it’s damaged — as it can compromise the structural integrity of your vehicle.
8. Alternator Failure
The alternator is responsible for keeping all of your cars electrical systems running once the engine starts, and is also responsible for supplying a charge to your battery. So, when your alternator breaks, it will eventually cause your car’s battery to die as well. While your alternator should last between seven and ten years, if yours prematurely fails, your mechanic will easily be able to replace it, as it is one of the more common car repairs.
Schedule Your Vehicle’s Routine Maintenance at Burlington Kia
We hope that you never have to experience the car problems mentioned in this blog. A great way to avoid having to deal with these common car repairs is to have routine maintenance performed on your vehicle. Thankfully, our certified technicians here at Burlington Kia can and will make sure all of your car’s parts are operating smoothly. Contact our dealership by using the button below to schedule an appointment with our service team!