What are Common Car Problems?
Imagine driving your car on a road trip and it suddenly breaks down. Or you’re moving to work, and your vehicle becomes unresponsive all of a sudden. We’ve got you covered. In this blog, we will go through the most common car problems and how to fix them.
1. Problems with Car Battery
How to diagnose: This is one of the most common problems. A car battery dies for several reasons including overheating, excessive draining from accessories left on, a faulty alternator not properly recharging it, extreme temperatures, or internal corrosion.
This is how you can diagnose a dead battery:
- A dying battery will take longer to start the engine.
- The car might not start at all.
- Electrical equipment like radios might misfunction.
- Dim headlights.
- Dashboard warning indicator lights.
How to fix: To fix this problem you can:
- Try to jump start the car.
- Refill your engine fluid.
- If the charging system is not working, you must take your car to a repair shop.
- Try exchanging your car battery.
2. Problems with Car Engine
How to diagnose: It will prevent you from accelerating. It can also cause a jerking motion while pressing down on the accelerator.
The signs the car’s engine is misfiring are:
- A distinct pop sound when you start your engine.
- The engine light will blink regularly.
- The car will have trouble starting.
- Decreased milage.
How to fix:
- Check The Spark Plug. If it is black, you need to clean it.
- Change The Spark Plug. You might have to change the spark plug.
- If the DYI solutions don’t work, we recommend you consult a mechanic.
3. Shaky Steering Wheel
How to diagnose: A shaky steering wheel causes serious problems while driving. If your car’s steering wheel is shaking, it should be addressed immediately.
The sings of a shaky steering are:
- Damaged suspension components.
- Damaged wheel bearings.
- Issues with tyre/wheel balance.
How to fix: You need to take your car to a professional mechanic to get it repaired.
4. Flat Tire
How to diagnose: You’ll know when it happens.
How to Fix: To change a busted tyre you must:
- Secure the wheel wedges
- Remove wheel covers
- Loosen the lug nuts halfway
- Secure the jack with wooden boards
- Locate the jacking point under your car.
- Remove the lug nuts completely.
- Unscrew the lug nuts completely
- Replace the flat tyre.
- Remove the flat-tyre from its frame and replace it with a spare tyre.
- Screw lug nuts and replace wheel cover.
5. Tight Clutch
How to diagnose: A clutch must be smooth, if you’re facing challenges while applying the clutch your car’s clutch needs examination. A tight clutch will cause trouble in shifting gear. Here’s what you can do about it:
- You can check the clutch pedal to see if there’s something beneath it.
- If your clutch disc is worn out, you need to get it touch with a mechanic.
- Adjusting the clutch padel might also work.
Read More:
How to Check and Replace Your Car Battery
6. Dents
How to diagnose: Dents make your car look ugly. Dents can also lead to severe scratching. How to Fix:
- Prep and clean the dented area.
- Remove the paint.
- Prepare the filler.
- Apply first coat.
- Add more filler.
- Apply sand to shape and glaze.
7. Engine Overheating
How to diagnose: A car’s engine can overheat for obvious reasons. The car’s engine starts emitting noises and smoke. If the problem persists it will finally lead to a breakdown. Here’s what you can do about it:
- Change the coolant.
- You might have to refill your radiator with water.
- You must also check the radiator’s fan.
- Get your thermostat checked.
- There can be a problem with the pipes that carry the coolant to the engine.
8. Burnt Out Spark Plugs
How to diagnose: Your cars will show signs like:
- Poor engine performance.
- Decreased milage.
- Acceleration issues.
- Severe engine failure.
- Trouble starting the car.
How to fix: You need to replace the burnt-out spark plugs. You can replace the spark plugs by yourself following these steps:
- Ensure that the engine is cold.
- Disconnect the battery.
- Remove spark-plug wires or coil-on-plug connectors.
- Remove spark plug with socket.
- Examine the spark plug.
- Install new spark plug.
- Reattach the wires.
9. Rattling Suspension
How to diagnose: A problematic suspension will result in noise and difficulty while steering. The car sits low and feels very bumping. A rattling suspension can be caused because:
- Damaged or loose shock absorbers.
- Worn-out bushings.
- Loose stabilizer bars.
How to fix: There are two alternatives. First, you can slide under the car and try to tighten the loose screw and bolts. Second, if the problem persists, we suggest you visit a professional repair shop.
10. Problem with Car Brake
How to diagnose: If your car’s brake makes squeaky sounds you need to address it immediately. Problems can occur if moisture accumulates around the brake.
How to fix: Clean the brakes. If it doesn’t help, then it’s probably because the brake pads or the brake shoes have worn out and require replacement.
Read More:
7 Common Car Electrical Problems & How to Fix Them
Conclusion
In this blog, we have discussed the most common car problems. You can deal with these problems by yourself. All it needs is a little patience and the correct tools. However, if these problems persist, we recommend you visit a professional car repair service.
