Did you know that 4.7 million vehicles were sold in the USA in 2019? This is an incredible number and shows that owning a personal car is seen as necessary as ever.
However, owning a car is also a responsibility. After purchase, you are responsible to keep it in good running order so that it can safely carry you and your loved ones.
How can you do this? Why should you schedule a time to get a car check up?
Why not read our in-depth guide below to find out.
1. Warning Lights on the Dash
Let’s face it, when that little light comes on on your dashboard, and you don’t quite remember what it means, it is very easy to procrastinate and avoid having it checked out. However, this could prove to be very expensive. It means that it is time to get a car check-up.
It could be indicating that your tail-light is out – something relatively easy to fix. However, it could be something more sinister like a transmission failure, oil circulation or even the need to get your oil changed.
In any case prevention of a big problem ahead of time is better than an expensive cure later. Time to take those warning signs on your dashboard seriously.
2. Vehicle Reliability
If your car has begun to show signs of unreliability such as stalling, this could be more than a simple problem. An engine that cuts out at intersections, or does not respond when you step on the gas, can be an indication of a serious problem.
Unreliability can also leave you in a dangerous position. If your car stalls at in intersection, or cannot give you the expected power when overtaking, you risk collision with other vehicles.
Taking it in for a checkup could reveal that you have a blockage in your fuel filter or something similar. This simple part replacement means your car will return to working exactly as you expect it to.
3. Ensure Your Car Starts Immediately from Cold
Mornings are hard for everyone, especially in winter. However, your vehicle has been designed to start even in colder seasons. If it struggling to turn over in winter, and especially so in summer, it means that you have a problem.
This could mean that your car battery has a weakness. Or it could be that you need to service the starting mechanism. In any case, don’t put it off. When winter comes, you will be glad that you didn’t.
4. Fuel Efficiency
When you purchased the car, you no doubt had a pretty good idea of how many miles you could get to a gallon and how far you could get on a tank of gas.
However, as time passes by, you may start to notice that you are not getting as miles for your tank as you used to. If by using a fuel mileage baseline calculator you are able to confirm this, it is time to take your car in for a check up.
The problem could be as simple as a tire pressure problem. However, if the mpg continues to drop it could be a serious leak. Take it into the shop and let the experts look over it to be sure.
5. Noises When Braking
It is possible that some parts of your car, such as seat covers, can wait before being replaced. It is hardly a matter of life and death. However, when you feel any changes or hear unexpected noises from your brakes, it is a matter you should urgently get checked out.
You should expect brake pads to wear out and need replacement periodically. when they do, do not procrastinate. Get them checked out and enjoy the peace of mind of knowing that your car will stop as you expect.
6. Other Unexpected Noises
Of course, brakes may not be the only source of unexpected noises. While brakes may be a priority, in reality, all noises should be checked out.
If you are hearing a noise from one of your wheels, it could be a bald tire or a failing CV joint. Screaming from under the hood could indicate a worn belt. Squealing when turning the wheel could show a low power steering fluid level. None of these problems will stop the engine from working, yet all will lead to more expensive fixes if not dealt with earlier.
7. Avoid Expensive Transmission Replacements
Automatic transmissions take a lot of the hard work out of driving. They handle most of the gear changes so that your hands stay firmly on the wheel.
However, having to replace a transmission is not cheap. Avoid this by diagnosing problems early. Does the transmission hesitate to change when you put your foot down? Are the changes abrupt rather than smooth? Do you need higher than expected revs to cause the transmission to change up to a higher gear?
Small tweaks and fixes include fluid and filter changes. Doing this now may help you prevent larger expensive transmission changes later down the line.
8. Lack of Power
You get caught behind a 16 wheeler on the freeway on a dark rainy night. You pull out to overtake, as you push the accelerator you notice that the car is not accelerating. You push harder and feel only a fraction of the forward movement you expect.
The cars behind are getting closer. A lack of power in the engine can cause you real problems.
Whether this is due to fuel line problems or air intake, it is better not to take the risk. A lack of power can cause you problems at unexpected times. Do the right thing and take it in before it puts other drivers at risk.
9. Avoid Unknowingly Breaking the Law
Did you know that 10% of all cars are running at least 1 bald tire? A higher percentage are no doubt running tires that are close to the legal limit. How are your vehicle’s tires? Many do not remember to check them on a regular basis. This is not a deliberate breaking of the law, rather it is neglect and forgetfulness.
If you are not sure of the legal limits of tire baldness or remember that you have not changed yours in some time, it is time to take your car to the shop.
Car Check Up, Oil Change, and Many Other Services
Maintenance is not always an attractive word. Taking time to maintain, clean and, if necessary, replace important parts can be disruptive to your schedule. However, in the long run, it will save you significant time. If you would like to know the most effective way to maintain your vehicle, we are here to help.
Whether you are investigating car check up, oil change, or part upgrade services, we leverage our many years in the business to provide reliable and trustworthy guidance to our readers. Why not follow our blog to see how we can help you today.