5 Common Car Problems Every Driver Needs to Know

Your car is more than a means of transportation. Your car is life. You need it every day and you expect it to work.

When it doesn’t, you are put out and mildly distressed. You want to get it fixed ASAP, but first, you have to know what is causing the problem.

Don’t worry. There are a few common car problems that are easily fixed if you know what to look for. Read on for 5 of these problems and what to do about them.

1.  Car Won’t Start

A dead battery is usually the cause. If you can find a friend with a working car, you can jump-start your battery with cables connected to their engine. 

If your battery is completely dead or dying, buy a new one and have it installed. 

If your battery is not the problem, consider:

• The starter. If you hear a loud single click, or a series of clicks when you turn the key, this is a clue that the starter is the issue.

• The alternator. When the alternator belt breaks, your battery is drained of its power. So, if your battery is relatively new, and you have starting problems, it’s usually the alternator.

If you suspect the above problems, get your car to a mechanic that you trust.

2. Warning Lights Going Off

When the “check engine” light goes on, it means you need to get to the mechanic. 

If you have a particular warning light or lights that are on constantly, and you can’t find the cause, take it to the mechanic. 

If your lights are always on, or you’re at the repair shop constantly, consider whether your car might be a “lemon.” Owners of lemons can take advantage of their state’s lemon law to receive possible compensation for a bad car.

3.  Noisy Brakes

When your brakes squeal or make noises, it’s a sign that the brake pads need to be replaced. A grinding sound means the brakes themselves may need replacing.

You can take your car to a brake specialist, or a regular mechanic for this common repair.

4. No Air Conditioning

AC problems are often caused by leaks or compressor issues. If you have cool air, but not cold, the problem could be a clogged filter, cooling fan problem, or radiator trouble.

Your mechanic can diagnose the exact issue and restore your air.

5.  Exhaust Smoke

Smoke coming out of your exhaust pipe is diagnosed by color:

White/Grey Smoke: means your coolant is being combusted along with the fuel or you have a leak somewhere in the engine.

Blue Smoke: means leakage in the valve seals or guides. The piston rings may have worn out, which causes engine oil to burn. 

Black Smoke:  means that excessive fuel is being burnt due to a leak in the fuel injector, or a restriction in the fuel combustion pipe. 

Again, take your car to the mechanic to address any exhaust or sluggish engine issues you have.

What to Do About Common Car Problems

Every driver needs to have a good car mechanic in their contact list. Regular maintenance will keep common car problems away, and your car running smoothly!

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