Like a Doctor, But For Your Car

4 Things That May Warrant Auto Repair And How To Prevent Them

The stress and inconvenience that comes with a vehicle breakdown are often completely preventable. From small maintenance appointments to repairs and replacements, you can ensure that your vehicle remains in tip-top shape so that you can be confident while you drive your vehicle around town or across the state. Keep reading to learn about some of the causes that may warrant auto repair and how these problems can be prevented.

Old or Under-Inflated Tires

Old tires increase the risk of having a breakdown due to the rubber being deteriorated, which can cause cracks as well as blowouts. Make sure that you inspect your tires on a regular basis, have the tires rotated with each oil change, and get the tires replaced when necessary.

Under-inflated tires will have more contact with the highway. Because of this, there is more friction and an increase in heat and wear — all of which increase the risk of the tread separating and causing a blowout. Make sure to keep a tire gauge in your vehicle and check the air pressure at least once per month — or better yet at each fill-up — to prevent any issues with under-inflation.

Lack of Fluids

If your vehicle is lacking in transmission fluid and engine oil, then essential vehicle parts may heat up and size, causing your vehicle to be inoperable. These fluids are important because they lubricate various moving parts in the transmission and engine to help prevent friction, seizing issues, and general wear and tear. So, before you go on a long trip, make sure that you check your fluid levels. Also, don't forget to get your oil changed routinely and have your fluids topped off as your vehicle manufacturer and/or auto mechanic recommends.

Alternator Issues

The alternator relies on the power of the engine to charge the battery. If there are problems with the alternator, then your battery will begin to drain and your vehicle will shut down. So, make sure that you pay attention to warning signals like dimming dashboard lights/headlights, slower windshield wipers, and slower engine turnovers so that you are able to get repairs scheduled before your vehicle actually breaks down on you.

Corroded Battery

As batteries age, it is not uncommon for them to begin to corrode, particularly if the vehicle doesn't get driven a lot during the wintertime. The best thing you can do is to regularly drive your vehicle and inspect the battery for signs of corrosion every two to three months. Keep in mind that batteries only last half a decade or so. Therefore, if your battery is older than five years, it may need to be replaced.

If you are noticing any problems with your vehicle, you should schedule an appointment with a local auto service shop.


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