Regular preventive maintenance is the best way to keep your car purring like a kitten. Unfortunately, even with regular visits to the mechanics, your car can still develop issues, usually without advance notice. Knowing the signs of potentially serious car issues is the best way to stay safe while on the road.
Alternator
An alternator is what maintains all electrical systems inside your car. It also keeps your battery charged and ensures that your car turns over when you turn the ignition. Sadly, alternators can break down without forewarning. Usually, you’ll try to start your car only to find that there’s no power. You can prevent this from happening by scheduling regular maintenance. If found to be faulty, your alternator can be replaced prior to completely malfunctioning.
Brakes
With so much wear and tear, it’s not uncommon for brakes to give out. Unfortunately, it can happen in split second. Sometimes, you notice a change in the way your brakes grab when trying to stop. When brake pads start to go, you might have to push the brake pedal harder and faster. As more of the pads wear out, you may also start to hear a squealing or screeching sound.
You can prevent this by having your brakes inspected by having them inspected regularly. You might not notice a problem before you’re having trouble breaking, but a mechanic will. When your brake pad is starting to wear, look into brake pad replacement services.
Suspension
As frightening as it sounds, there are times when the steering of a car can go out. The steering wheel might start shaking while you’re driving, giving you enough time to pull over to the side of the road. However, it might not or it might not give you enough time to pull over.
A shaking steering wheel usually indicates something is wrong with the car’s suspension. The suspension is what makes a car ride smoothly. However, if you have a knack for hitting potholes or you drive your car on uneven terrain, you’re probably damaging the suspension. This too warrants immediate inspection by a certified mechanic.
Flat Tire
You never know when your tire is going to go flat. What’s worse, it can happen to brand-new tires, regardless of whether the car is in motion or not. Make a point to always have a spare tire and jack in the car. Also, take the time to learn how to change a tire safely. There are plenty of videos online that break down how to change a flat tire in under 30 minutes.
Keeping your car in mint condition means being proactive. To keep your car running smoothly, always have your car inspected and become friends with your local neighborhood mechanic.