Owning a car comes with the responsibility of keeping it in good working order. Regular maintenance not only ensures your car runs smoothly but can also prevent costly repairs and breakdowns. It’s easy to overlook routine checks, but doing so can lead to issues that can easily be avoided. In this blog, we’ll cover five common automotive problems that can be easily solved with regular maintenance. Whether you’re a seasoned driver or new to car ownership, these tips will help keep your car in optimal condition.
Poor Fuel Economy
Many car owners notice that their vehicle starts using more fuel than it used to. This is called poor fuel efficiency. It often happens when you don’t keep up with regular maintenance. Causes of poor fuel economy include dirty air filters. The air filter cleans the air going into the engine. If it’s dirty, it blocks airflow, making the engine work harder and use more fuel. Worn-out spark plugs can also be the cause. Spark plugs ignite the fuel in the engine. If they’re old, they may not burn the fuel properly, which wastes fuel. Another common cause is low tire pressure. Tires that don’t have enough air create more friction with the road, forcing the engine to use more energy and fuel.
Solution
To fix these issues, you should replace the air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles. This will allow the engine to get enough clean air and improve fuel efficiency. Changing spark plugs every 30,000 miles or as recommended by the manufacturer will ensure that the engine burns fuel properly. Checking your tire pressure regularly and keeping tires at the correct inflation level can improve fuel efficiency. These simple maintenance tasks can help your car run more efficiently and save you money on fuel.
Brake Wear and Tear
Your car’s brakes are one of the most important safety features. They allow you to stop the car safely. Over time, the brakes wear out, especially if you drive in heavy traffic. Signs that your brakes need attention include squeaking, grinding sounds, or a soft brake pedal. Causes of brake problems include worn brake pads. Brake pads are parts that press against the brake rotors to stop the car. When they become too thin, they start to squeal or grind when you press the brake pedal. Another cause could be warped brake rotors. Rotors can warp due to high heat from frequent braking, causing vibration when you brake. Low brake fluid is another issue. If the brake fluid is low, the brakes may feel soft or less responsive.
Solution
To prevent brake issues, you should inspect and replace brake pads every 20,000 to 50,000 miles, depending on how you drive. If the brake rotors are warped, you may need to resurface or replace them. Checking the brake fluid regularly is also important. If it’s low or dirty, topping it off or replacing the fluid can improve brake performance. Regular brake maintenance will help you avoid costly repairs and keep you safe on the road.
Dead Battery
It’s very frustrating when your car doesn’t start, and one of the most common reasons is a dead battery. A car battery provides the power needed to start the engine. Luckily, many battery problems can be prevented with regular care. Causes of dead batteries include age. Most car batteries last between 3 to 5 years. After that, they lose the ability to hold a charge. Corrosion on the battery terminals is another cause. Corrosion blocks the connection between the battery and the car’s electrical system. Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can also reduce battery performance and lead to failure.
Solution
To avoid battery problems, replace your battery every 3 to 5 years. If you live in a very hot or cold climate, it may need to be replaced sooner. Clean the battery terminals regularly to remove corrosion. You can use a simple mixture of baking soda and water for this. Also, during very hot or cold seasons, check the battery’s performance and make sure it is charging properly. Taking these steps will help prevent your battery from dying unexpectedly and keep your car running smoothly.
Tire Issues
Tires are your car’s connection to the road, so maintaining them is crucial for both safety and performance. Common tire-related issues include flat tires, uneven wear, and loss of traction, all of which can arise if tire maintenance is neglected. Causes of tire problems include punctures from sharp objects like nails or glass, which can lead to flat tires. Uneven tire wear happens when tires are not rotated regularly or when wheels are misaligned. Misalignment also affects how the car drives and causes tires to wear down more quickly.
Solutions
To prevent these issues, rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, which is often done during oil changes. Regularly check your tire tread using the “penny test” to see if the tires need to be replaced. Insert a penny into the tread, and if you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, it’s time for new tires. If you notice your car pulling to one side, get your wheels checked for alignment. Proper tire maintenance will extend tire life, improve handling, and make your car safer to drive.
Engine Overheating
An overheating engine can cause serious damage to your vehicle if not addressed promptly, but this issue can often be avoided with regular attention to your car’s cooling system. Causes of engine overheating include coolant leaks, which prevent the cooling system from controlling engine temperature. A faulty thermostat, which regulates the flow of coolant, can also cause the engine to overheat. Another cause is a broken radiator fan, which helps cool the engine by blowing air over the radiator.
Solutions
To prevent engine overheating, check your coolant levels regularly and top them off if needed. Replace coolant every 30,000 to 50,000 miles, based on your car’s requirements. Inspect the radiator, hoses, and thermostat for any signs of damage or leaks during routine maintenance. If you see your temperature gauge rising while driving, pull over and turn off the engine to prevent further damage. Regular checks and maintenance of the cooling system will help keep the engine at the right temperature and avoid costly repairs.
Trust Car Corral Garage for All Your Auto Maintenance Needs
Regular maintenance is essential to keeping your vehicle running smoothly and avoiding costly repairs. At Car Corral Garage in Brownwood, TX, we are committed to providing top-notch service with over 50 years of combined experience. Whether it’s handling issues like poor fuel economy, brake wear, dead batteries, or more, our ASE-certified mechanics are equipped to address your vehicle’s needs with precision and care. We pride ourselves on offering cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality.
At Car Corral Garage, we value transparency, providing straightforward assessments and honest recommendations. Our goal is to keep your car safe, reliable, and performing at its best. Visit us at 1206 Coggin Ave or give us a call at +1 (325) 220-2277 to experience the Car Corral difference today. Let us help you with routine maintenance and repairs, ensuring you stay on the road with confidence.