You should book your car for service once every year or 12,000 miles (whichever comes first). Sometimes, you may not always be able to stick to this schedule because of time constraints or a busy schedule. Thankfully, your car will give you signs that it needs attention in between regular service intervals.
Here are seven signs to watch out for:
1. Dashboard Warning Lights
The dashboard is your car’s way of communicating with you. You’ll see a spanner icon or the word “SERVICE” light up on your dashboard if your vehicle needs servicing. Depending on the make of your car, the lighting will come with text showing how long you’ve got left before it needs to be serviced. Some models will tell you if the service is overdue and needs immediate attention. You should know that dashboard lights will not only come on in the dashboard for service. Sometimes these lights indicate some fault in your car. Check if the service light illuminates together with other warning lights to know what needs to be addressed.
2. Strange Noises
If you notice any strange noises coming from your engine, it is a sign that something needs to be serviced or replaced. Unusual sounds can indicate wear and tear on major components like brakes, suspension, or even worn-out belts and hoses. Sometimes, it’s wear on the body of the car like rattling or squeaking. Listen carefully to where the noise is coming from. If it’s the engine, you should be quick to get it serviced. It is important to bring your car in for service if you hear any strange noises coming from it.
3. Unusual Vibrations
Unusual vibrations can be a sign that something is wrong with your car. It could be a worn-out drive belt, an issue with the engine mounts, or even an exhaust leak. Even when you are driving on smooth roads, if you feel any unusual vibrations coming from your car, it is a sign that something is wrong and needs to be checked out. Call your service repair shop and make an appointment to have your car serviced as soon as possible.
4. Unusual Smells
If your car has been emitting strange smells like burning oil or rubber, then this could indicate a problem with its engine or emission system. It could also mean that one of the hoses has cracked or worn-out, which could lead to further damage if left unchecked. If you smell anything unusual coming from your car, it’s best to bring it for a check-up immediately.
5. Fluid Leaks and Mystery Puddles
Fluid leaks are another sign that your car needs service. It could be leaking oil, coolant, or even brake fluid. You will notice leaks when you see a puddle forming under your car or when the fluid level on your dashboard drops quickly. Don’t wait until it’s too late; take your car in for a service if you notice any fluid leaks. You may also hear a sizzling sound in the engine area when you stop your engine. This can be caused by leaking fluids dripping on heated engine components.
6. Loss of Power and Frequent Stalling
If your car is losing power or stalling more frequently, this could be a sign of an underlying problem. It could be solved by a simple replacement of spark plugs or a mechanical repair or replacement of much more complicated issues like a malfunctioning fuel injection system. Whatever the cause, it’s important to have your car serviced at the first sign of power loss or stalling. Let a pro diagnose and fix the problem before it gets worse.
7. Smoke Coming From The Exhaust Pipe or Bonnet
Smoke coming from the exhaust pipe is an indication of a potentially serious problem. It could mean a clogged air filter, a faulty oxygen sensor, or even engine damage. If you see smoke coming out of your bonnet, there’s likely an issue with your cooling system like a loose hose or worn radiator cap. Either way, smoke coming out of your car is a sign that you need to have it inspected and serviced by a qualified mechanic.
When this happens, make sure you turn off the engine, keep a safe distance, and call a tow truck.
What Happens if You Don’t Service Your Car?
If you don’t get your car serviced when it needs to, you can be putting yourself at risk of major problems. Not only will you run the risk of your car breaking down in the middle of nowhere, but any potential engine damage could end up costing you much more than if you had just taken it to a mechanic for regular service. It’s also important to keep your car serviced for safety reasons. Without regular maintenance, it could become a danger on the road, putting you and others at risk.
Reach Out to Lake Elsinore Honda to Service Your Car
Finally, any strange noises, smells or leaks are all signs that your car needs service to ensure that it’s running safely and efficiently. Don’t wait until there is a major problem, it’s best to take your car in for a check-up as soon as any of these signs appear. If you’re looking for a place to bring your car for servicing and maintenance, look no further than Lake Elsinore Honda – our team of qualified service technicians can diagnose problems with your vehicle and make sure that it is running smoothly and safely. Contact us today to learn more.
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