The year 2020 marked the fourth consecutive year that the average age of cars in the US has climbed. It was 11.9 years in 2020, while it was only 11.8 in 2019. Both are a considerable jump from the average of 9.6 years back in 2002.
However, it’s also because of old age that many drivers end up needing emergency auto repairs.
Fortunately, not all car woes come with hefty charges, so long as you get them fixed right away. Use this guide to learn about the signs you need to visit an auto repair shop ASAP.
1. A Too-Loose Brake Pedal
According to a study published in 2015, faulty brakes were behind 10,000 crashes from 2005 to 2007. That makes defective brakes deadly car problems, as they may fail to stop your ride when you most need it to.
One sign that you have dangerous brakes is if the pedal goes all the way down at the lightest pressure. This excessive looseness can signal brake fluid loss, which you may only have to top up. However, if the fluid seems to dry up faster than normal, you likely have a leaking brake line.
Take your car to the nearest auto repair company to have your brake line fixed, and your fluids topped up.
2. Your Car Wobbles
Problems with the brake rotors, such as uneven surfaces or rust, can make your car wobble as you step on the brakes. Shaking can also indicate your tires are out of balance or need a rotation. Bent or dented axles are also common culprits behind excessive vehicle vibrations.
Either way, all those issues warrant immediate auto repair service.
3. Your Check Engine Light Came On
Before you worry about that illuminated light on your gauge, inspect your gas tank first. In many cases, this lamp flicks on due to a loose gas cap. Try tightening the cover first to see if this will switch the light off.
If not, see if any other warning lights are on, such as the transmission temperature gauge. In this case, you might have issues with your transmission that a mechanic needs to address.
You should also bring your ride to an auto repair shop if the warning lights are flashing or are in red. In some cars, these are signs of emergencies, such as a misfiring engine. Ignoring this issue can lead to severe engine or catalytic converter damage.
4. Firecracker-Like Bang From the Back of Your Car
This sound is definitely scary, but in most cases, a backfire isn’t an emergency. However, it does mean you should have your ride inspected by a mechanic as soon as possible. The sound could mean you need new spark plugs, or there’s an issue with your car’s fuel combustion.
5. Black Smoke From the Tailpipe
This usually means that a car is burning pure, raw fuel. It can be due to a leaking fuel injector, a defective engine sensor, or a faulty fuel pressure regulator. The black smoke out of the tailpipe is a byproduct of that leaking and burning fuel.
If possible, take your ride to an auto repair shop the same day you see that black smoke. All those potential culprits above typically require immediate repairs. They can cause severe catalytic converter or engine damage or even total car failure.
Plus, many states have laws that can get you slapped with fines due to exhaust pollution.
Don’t Delay Necessary Trips to an Auto Repair Shop
As you can see, there are quite a few solid indications you need to visit an auto repair shop. The most important thing is not to put off scheduling your ride for inspection and repairs. Your car problem may not be an emergency, but it will be if you keep delaying the fix it needs.
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