NEWS
7 Vehicle Problems Often Left Unchecked By Car Owners
As a car owner, there may be a few car issues that pose a risk to your safety, comfort, and peace of mind when driving. Ignoring these can lead to bigger problems and endanger your life while on the road. Moreover, leaving these issues fixed for later may entail higher costs, especially if you do not have car insurance.
To avoid this, you must be aware of potential problems that might arise with your vehicle so you can address them before they escalate into a major dilemma. With the proper knowledge and skills, you can avoid expensive repairs and keep your car in good condition.
Here are some common vehicle problems that are often left unchecked by car owners:
- Exhaustive System Problems
Understanding the parts of your exhaust system is important to avoid troubleshooting issues. A crucial element of your car’s exhaust system is the oxygen sensor, which controls oxygen levels in the exhaust to evaluate your engine’s efficiency. In older cars, the oxygen sensor can degenerate with time and require replacement, making it a frequent repair item people ignore.
The catalytic converter is another vital component of the exhaust system, responsible for neutralizing harmful gases such as nitrous oxide in the exhaust. Therefore, it is important to address any issues in the catalytic converter, given how they reduce carbon emissions into the environment.
The catalytic converter can also become worn with time and may need to be replaced, normally after high mileage. Failure to do this may cause the component to malfunction.
- Shaky Steering Wheel
A shaky steering wheel is another car problem that most car owners leave unaddressed. The steering wheel can shake for various reasons while driving. If the shaking occurs right after starting the car and driving, it’s often due to damaged suspension parts or wheel bearings wearing out. If the shaking occurs at higher speeds, it usually indicates a problem with the tire or wheel balance. To accurately identify and fix the issue, it’s best to have a professional mechanic inspect the vehicle.
- Brake Problems
Brakes are a critical component of your vehicle, and any issues should be addressed immediately. Common brake problems include worn brake pads, rotors, and damaged brake lines. If you notice your brake pedal feels soft or spongy or you hear a squeaking or grinding noise when braking, it’s time to have your brakes checked.
Loud squeaky sounds of brakes are a sign of trouble. Sometimes, when the brakes are wet, they may produce a squealing sound due to the water on the brake shoe or pad. Once the water dries up, the squeaky sound should disappear. However, if the sound persists, the brake pads or shoes have worn out and must be replaced. Given the importance of brakes in driving, replacing them immediately after you notice an issue is imperative to prevent an auto accident.
- Oil Leaks
Various factors, such as a damaged gasket or seal, a crack in the engine block, or worn-out parts, can cause engine oil leaks. These leaks can cause significant damage to the engine and result in reduced performance and increased fuel consumption. Therefore, car owners should consider this as a pressing issue.
- Suspension Issues
The suspension system is responsible for maintaining a smooth and comfortable drive. If you experience any bumps or vibrations on the road or your car leans excessively to one side, it may be a sign of suspension problems. Worn-out shocks and struts, worn-out ball joints, and damaged control arms are common causes of suspension issues, which needs to be addressed as soon as possible.
- Battery Issues
Along with the alternator, the battery is the power source that darts your vehicle. Car batteries are subject to wear and tear over time and can develop problems that can cause your vehicle to fail to start. If you notice that your battery is slow to start or if the battery warning light on your dashboard lights up, it’s time to have your battery checked.
- Engine Performance Problems
A dirty air filter, a failing spark plug, or a clogged fuel injector can cause engine performance problems. If you notice a decrease in power or acceleration, or if your vehicle is running rough, it’s time to check your engine.
Additionally, the engine cooling system keeps the engine at the proper operating temperature. If you notice the engine overheating or coolant leaks under your vehicle, it’s a sign of a problem with the cooling system.
Conclusion
Car problems are unavoidable when you own a car. To ensure your safety and peace of mind while on the road, it’s crucial to be aware of the most common car issues and take the necessary measures to prevent or address them immediately. From the shaking steering wheel to squeaking brakes and damaged catalytic converter, being prepared and knowledgeable about these issues can help you avoid sizeable repair bills and keep your car in optimal condition.
Kenneth is a proud native of sydney, born and raised there. However, he pursued his education abroad and studied in Australia. Kenneth has worked as a journalist for almost a decade, making valuable contributions to prominent publications such as Yahoo News and The Verge. Currently, he serves as a journalist for The Hear Up, where he focuses on covering climate and science news. You can reach Kenneth at [email protected].
