While many people know when to get their car’s oil needs changed, or that it is time to take their car into the shop if the check engine light comes on, it can be harder to know for certain whether or not your car is in need of another type of maintenance or repair. However, there are subtle signs you can look out for indicating that you should consider having your car serviced in the near future. Here are a few of these signs that you can look out for in your car.
You Notice Any Leaks
Oftentimes when people notice a spot on their driveway underneath their car, they shrug it off and assume it is just a minor leak. However, in actuality, there is no such thing as a minor leak. Even if a leak seems small you should not ignore it as your car is likely leaking coolant or oil. If you run out of either of these vital fluids while you are driving it can spell disaster for your car’s engine, which makes it critical that you have your car serviced if you notice a leak.
Your Car is Having Trouble Starting
While it is obvious that something is wrong with your car if it will not start in the morning, many people are unaware that the way their car starts can also indicate problems. For instance, if your car seems to not want to start in the morning, and is taking longer to start up than it used to, this is a clear sign of trouble. The most likely culprit of this problem is that your battery is on the way out and will soon need to be replaced. However, it is important that you do not ignore this issue and that you have your vehicle serviced right away. If you ignore electrical problems in your car, you may soon find yourself stranded somewhere, or unable to get to work, because your car won’t start.
You Hear a Squealing Sound
Another way to tell that something is wrong when you start your car is if you hear a squealing noise as your car is first starting. This is likely a sign of a bad serpentine belt, which helps to provide power to essential components in your vehicle such as the alternator, making it critical that you do not ignore any unusual sounds your car makes as it is starting, or when you first turn on the A/C.
Contact us for more advice on how you will know when it is time to have your car serviced.