Have you ever wondered how you know when your car needs repair? Sometimes the need for auto repair can be obvious, such as when the check engine light comes on, while other times it will not be as obvious. Therefore, by paying careful attention to your vehicle’s performance, you can spot when your car needs repair before it turns into major trouble. If you ever notice anything concerning about your vehicle, you can contact your local auto repair shop where they can run diagnostic tests to find out if anything is wrong. They can also offer specialized services like auto glass services in some cases. Here are some of the more subtle signs that your car needs repair.

A Sudden Increase in Exhaust

You should be concerned anytime you notice your vehicle’s emissions suddenly change, especially when there is a sudden increase in exhaust smoke, one of the most common signs of internal engine issues. If you are driving and you notice an excess of smoke coming from the exhaust pipe or if there is a black residue near the exhaust pipe or bumper area, you should get it checked out as soon as possible. Based on the color of the smoke emanating from your exhaust pipe, you can often ascertain what the issue is and the severity. If your car is producing an amount of black exhaust smoke that is more than usual, this is cause for immediate concern.

As a general rule of thumb, black smoke indicates that your automobile is burning too much fuel. This will severely decrease your fuel efficiency and cause numerous different problems with your engine. On the other hand, blue smoke is a sign that there is an oil leak in the engine and it may have even seeped into the combustion chamber. This puts your vehicle at risk of oil starvation which could heavily damage the motor.

Lastly, white smoke means there is a coolant leak in the engine and coolant is being burnt. During the winter months, you may see a little more white smoke than usual when you start your engine. This is completely normal as it is simply a reaction of water vapor in the exhaust system. It should dissipate as the temperature of the engine increases.

In addition, smoke should never come from under the hood. This is generally a sign of the engine overheating which could cause severe damage if you continue driving. If you find yourself in this situation, carefully monitor the temperature gauge. If you are driving your vehicle and the temperature gauge is going up, pull off the road immediately and wait for the engine to cool. If the situation does not improve, get help from the American Automobile Association’s roadside assistance or another service.

A Decrease in Fuel Efficiency

If your vehicle experiences a sudden or gradual decrease in fuel efficiency or miles per gallon, this is a surefire sign your car needs repair. Decreased fuel efficiency will lead to more time and money spent at the gas pump, while a visit to the auto repair shop for a small tune-up will fix this problem indefinitely. Cleaning a sensor, changing an air filter, or replacing a spark plug are a few tune up services the repair shop might perform to repair this issue and get your vehicle’s fuel efficiency back to normal again.

Unusual Sounds

If you hear a strange noise while you are operating your vehicle, especially if it is repetitive, you might want to have it checked out by a service shop since this may be a sign your car needs repair. A whining transmission or a knocking noise coming from the engine are a few common noises that may point to the need for auto repair. Any knocking sound coming from under the hood is likely an indication that your engine bearings are worn down. If your engine is chugging, racing, or shaking, this likely points to a performance problem.

If you are driving and hear a squealing or grinding noise while you apply the brakes, this is cause for serious concern. This is an indication that the brake pads are worn down and grinding against the rotors ask you brake. This is referred to as metal on metal. If your rotors become damaged and your mechanic cannot resurface them, the cost to replace them will be double the price of your usual car brakes repair. A droning or dragging sound coming from the front or back wheel could be a differential or wheel bearing that has gone bad.

Unusual Odors or Fluid Leaking

Strange smells are another top sign your car needs repair. A few of the most common smells you might come across include burning paper, which points to the need for clutch repair, the scent of sweet maple, which indicates that your vehicle is looking coolant, or a gym bag odor, which means there is probably mold in your heating and air conditioning vents.

Other than strange odors, leaking fluids are another sign your vehicle needs urgent repair. There a number of fluids in your car that help lubricate or operate its various systems, which allows your vehicle to run effectively and safely. The most common fluids in your car are motor oil, brake fluid, transmission fluid, coolant or radiator fluid, windshield wiper fluid, and power steering fluid. If you notice any of these fluids leaking from their respective locations, contact your auto repair shop right away.

A major leak underneath your vehicle on the space you usually park is also a cause for immediate concern, and a legitimate reason to contact your mechanic. Bright green coolant or dark brown or red engine oil, transmission oil, or brake fluid will all leak near the front of the car. If you use your vehicle’s air conditioner during the warm summer months, water will leak and drip from the front of the car on the passenger side. This is completely normal and no cause for concern.

Top Signs Your Car Needs Repair

Other than these subtle signs that your car needs repair, there are many more obvious signs that you need to visit the auto repair shop. You may even be ignoring these top signs out of fear that the repairs may put you back hundreds of dollars. If you are unsure that your car needs repairs or are putting it off, pay attention to these signs that your vehicle needs attention right away.

Check Engine Light

If your check engine light is flashing, this is usually a significant sign that something could be wrong with any number of the hundreds of mechanical parts that are at work in your vehicle. If your check engine light is merely light up, this is completely normal and not a reason to panic, but you should still have your engine checked sometime in the near future. However, if a red or yellow engine symbol lights up on your dashboard, you should have your engine checked right away. This could point to an issue with the emissions system which will likely damage the catalytic converter if neglected.

Low Oil Light

Reguarly checking your car’s oil level and changing it when necessary is when of the most important car maintenance tasks. As your vehicle gets older, this becomes even more important. An older car will usually leak some amount of oil, which is not a huge cause for concern. If your low oil light comes on, your car has likely already sprung a large leak and the oil level has dropped significantly.

If you find yourself in this situation, it is best to pull over right away and call a tow truck to take your car to a mechanic. However, if you absolutely need to, you could try waiting for your engine to cool off in order to check your oil level and refill it. Then, you can make the drive to your mechanic yourself. Most importantly, do not continue driving when the low oil light comes on. IF you do, you will likely damage the engine significantly which will lead to an expensive repair or even an engine replacement.

High Temperature Gauge

If your vehicle’s temperature gauge has been reading high for a few consecutive days, this likely points to one of three different problems: the engine overheating, the gauge malfunctioning, or your car losing coolant through a leak or evaporation. If your temperature gauge is broken, then you will likely need to replace the coolant temperature switch. Another possibility that might explain your temperature gauge being high is a malfunctioning water pump or a water pump gasket that worn down and allowed a leak. In this case, you could easily replace the water pump yourself or have a professional do it. You can purchase a water pump wherever you can find auto parts for sale.

A Decrease In Performance

If your car has trouble accelerating, there is probably a serious issue that needs to be addressed immediately. If you find it difficult to get over a speed bump, this could signal a decrease in engine performance. Poor engine performance could have a plethora of different root causes, so it is of the utmost importance to have a knowledgeable mechanic diagnose the root problem. With over 639,700 car mechanics in the United States, you should not have a problem finding a trustworthy and experienced mechanic.

If you notice your vehicle’s performance decreasing, such as a difficulty accelerating, this could actually be an issue with the transmission. Other decreases in performance could manifest themselves in your vehicle riding lower than usual or your tires scraping on the wheel arch. These are likely symptoms of a problem with the suspension.

Rough Idling

If your vehicle’s engine seems like it is going give out when it is idling, this is a serious sign your car needs repair. This could be due to a number of different root causes, inkling corroded or dirty spark plugs, a clogged fuel filter, issues with the fuel pump, or old ignition coils.

Frequent Break Downs

Your vehicle will likely need multiple repairs to its engine over the course of its lifespan. This is unavoidable, but if your vehicle begins to break down more often than it should, this likely points to a larger problem. In this case, you may want to invest in a 24 hour towing service. Once an experienced mechanic diagnoses the issue, you will know what is causing your vehicle to break down and you will have an idea of how much it will cost. Your vehicle might just need a minor repair or if you have put it off for a while, it could need major repairs.

A Recent Accident

While it may be obvious, a car accident can result in a litany of mechanical issues and leave you in need of collision repair services, whether it is a fender bender or a serious crash. In many cases, your car will be totaled if it would cost more to repair it than to replace it. Noticeable signs that your car will be totaled include: the car will not start, parts of the car are bent, and leaking fluids.

If your vehicle is not totaled after an accident, you can get away with visiting an auto body paint center or auto glass services to repair your vehicle.

Even if you were not at fault, you will have to deal with the lengthy ordeal of getting it repaired. This involves getting a car insurance quote with an auto insurance agency before getting the repairs done.

This quote will often determine if the insurance company believes whether or not repairs are necessary. Before dealing with an insurance company, check automotive insurance ratings on a reputable website.

Other than mechanical issues, a car accident could result in serious injuries to the driver and passengers in the car. If you find yourself in this scenario, do not hesitate to contact an automobile injury lawyer.

With these tips and top signs your car needs repair, you should be able to determine whether or not your car needs immediate repair, or you can wait until your next inspection. Regardless of what sign tipped you off that your car is not operating correctly, it is crucial to have your vehicle inspected by an auto repair shop if necessary.

Driving on the road takes skill. Winter approaches and some people find themselves at a loss. The weather can cause a lot of changes to your car and it sometimes causes issues to arise. Here are 10 automotive maintenance tips to keep your car safe in the winter so it will keep you safe on the road.

1. Keep your car warm

If you have a garage plan to use it during the winter. Clear out some space for your car to keep it warm. Keeping your car warm offers several benefits to both you and your car.

1. It keeps your oil thin, allowing your car to have a more easy start when you are ready to drive.
2. You can save yourself time by not having to scrape off any ice or snow.
3. You save yourself a trip out in the cold.

Consider your garage for a second. It may be out of date, you need your door fixed, or you need a new garage. There are businesses that offer a garage door service. People will come out and fix your door, see if they can reduce any issues you have with it, or they can install a new one. It is best to have a garage to place your car in, so you will have the benefits listed above when winter comes.

Here is a bonus tip when it comes to garages. The type of flooring you have also matters when it comes to storing your car in the garage. Remember that your preowned SUVs or a new mustang should be on a specific type of flooring. This will help ensure that your tires last as long as possible.

The floor you see in auto sales dealerships tend to be different than the flooring in a home garage. There are contractors available to pave your garage floor or secure it with the necessary sealant. Asphalt paving contractors and concrete paving contractors offer a variety of options and pricing. Take your time when deciding which flooring you want your car to rest on.

No matter the flooring or garage you will thank yourself for putting your car in the garage during winter. It keeps your car safe and it keeps you safe when you drive it.

2. Have a good mechanic

This is one of the most important automotive maintenance tips. In the United States, around 693,700 care mechanics are actively helping car owners. Mechanics can solve problems the right way. They take care of your car so your car takes care of you. Mechanics offer a variety of services that are beneficial at any time of the year. They offer:

1. Oil change or check oil fluid
2. Brake repair
3. Tire Rotations
4. Engine Maintenance
5. Car inspection
6. Dent removal and more

Mechanics tend to get busy during the winter. This is due to so many issues that occur with cars during this time. Cars can stall. Accidents happen. Tire pressure tends to decrease with the cold weather. Mechanics can diagnose what is going on with your car and if it is in good shape or not. Usually, mechanics may recommend you checking in on your car with them every 5,000 miles or so. They can tell you if a car is fixable. They can also tell you if it is best to buy a new car which leads to one of the next automotive maintenance tips.

3. Keep gas in your car

The worst thing that could happen during winter is to run on empty. A general rule of thumb is to at least have a quarter of a tank of gas in your car. If you know you are going to be making a long trip, be sure to fill you up your tank. If you are not planning a long trip, have at least a quarter of gas in your car. In case of emergencies, you will want to have gas so your car will run to keep you warm during winter. Unplanned events happen. Be prepared in case that event happens to you. You will not have to get stalled or wait in the cold weather. A 24 hour towing company could take minutes to hours to arrive to assist you. Gas comes in handy when you least expect it.

4. New car — get coverage and a lawyer on speed dial

If you recently got a new car or are planning on getting one before or during winter, be sure to get coverage. Many automotive maintenance tips may not include this, but it is important to have. Coverage allows you to have the freedom to maintain your car and protect yourself. For instance, accidents happen on the road during winter due to black ice. When this happens, you will want to not step on the breaks, but many people do.

Collisions are more common than not during winter. This in turn allows an increase in demand for lawyers. Car accident lawyer, auto accident attorney, or a personal injury law firm tend to see an increase in need during this time. It is good to have a general recommendation or your own lawyer at your disposal.

Coverage protects you financially. It can protect you against things such as:

• Car accidents
• Weather damage
• Theft
• Animal damage
• Other people

With coverage, you can protect yourself, your car, and you can also protect others. The type of car you have matters. If you have a truck, think about investing in a trucking accident lawyer. Trucks tend to get the short end of the stick when it comes to filing damage claims. The type of car you have matters in terms of coverage.

If you have no coverage and get into an accident, you could end up losing your car, money, and anything that was damaged or lost in your car. This is where having a lawyer on speed dial comes in handy. You will want someone who knows what to do and what to say. Lawyers will fight for you and your personal belongings if an accident occurs. Coverage and lawyers are key in having security. Doing these two things whether you have a new car or not, will be one less worry you have if an accident occurs.

Not only is a car accident lawyer and coverage needed during winter, they are both needed during any season of the year.

5. Upgrade windshield wipers

If you are in a city where it snows or rains every single day you know the importance of having good windshield wipers. The wipers clear your view. They give you a sense of direction. Windshield wipers do need to be replaced throughout the year. If you keep old windshield wipers, they can cause damage to your window. If you notice a squeaking or squealing sound when you turn them on, it may be time to replace them.

Generally speaking, windshield wipers can be bought at a variety of places. Some grocery stores will have them in the car section. You can go to an auto shop. You can also buy them at your dealership where you bought your car.

Windshield wipers are essential throughout the year. If broken replace it as soon as possible. They give your eyes clarity. They provide you with security. This is one of the fastest automotive maintenance tips to fix. These take less than five minutes to replace. Be sure you buy the right kind for your car.

6. Check the oil

If you do not keep your car in the garage, your oil may not thin out. Oil should be check within a certain mileage range. Mechanics can do this, but you can too. This is one other automotive maintenance tips that takes less than five minutes to do. Here’s how:

1. Make sure your engine is off, and let your car cool down a bit.
2. Pop the hood of your car.
3. Stabilize the hood of your car.
4. Find the dipstick. This usually has a yellow ring and is on top of your oil tank.
5. Pull the dipstick out of the hole.
6. Wipe it down all the way and put it back in the hole.
7. Pull the dipstick out again and see where the oil falls on the dipstick.

You should be able to see if the oil level is low, full, or in between. If it is low, it is time to add or change your oil. If you are unsure of how to add oil or if it needs to change entirely, seek out help from a trustful mechanic. Oil is something you can check on month to month. Week to week. However often you would like as long as you are consistent with it.

7. Check your tire pressure

Tires are the feet of your car. They are what pushes you to your destination. Most cars now have a tire light. When this light turns on it is signaling to you that one or several of your tires is low or it needs to be changed.

With ice on the roads your car can come across black ice. Black ice is dangerous and can damage your tires and brakes if you skid on it. Ice is not the only thing that can damage your tires.

Temperature outside impacts your tires without you knowing. When the weather gets cooler, your tire pressure decreases. If you feel that you are sitting lower in your car, but have not moved your seat, check your tires. Keeping your tires in shape could prevent an accident from occurring.

If you are unsure if your tire pressure is decreasing, there are auto shops that offer courteous tire pressure checks. This takes around five minutes or less depending on how much air your tire needs. You can always pump air into your tires if you have a tire air pump.

Remember that these automotive maintenance tips for the winter are to get your car in shape for the roads you will travel. You want stable tires with good air pressure to keep your car running.

8. Get chains for your tires

Cities use safety measures for the road. If you live in a state where it tends to ice rather than snow a lot, roads may be sanded down. If you live in a state where it snows a lot, you may have noticed in the winter that cars have chains around their tires. These chains help their tires not accumulate a numerous amount of snow. Investing in chains something many overlook when it comes to automotive maintenance tips. Chains can be bought at a major grocery store, auto shop, or online. Make sure you get the chains that are going to best fit your car.

9. Have cables and check your battery

Jumper cables come in handy when you are stalled. Your battery may die on you unexpectedly. Ensuring you have a good battery and cables are automotive maintenance tips that should be placed on a high priority for you. If someone else stalls, you can help them jumpstart their battery if you have cables.

You can check your battery by taking it to an auto shop, or you can do it yourself with a voltmeter. Here’s how:

1. Turn off your vehicle entirely–including lights.
2. Connect the positive side of your battery with the positive side of the voltmeter.
3. Repeat this with connecting the negative sides of your battery with the negative side of the voltmeter.
4. Look at the reading on your voltmeter to see if your battery is good.
5. Carefully disconnect each negative side first.
6. Safely clean each terminal connection.

Generally, if you have a good battery the voltmeter will indicate this with anything above 12.4v volts. If it falls below that number, take your car into a trusted mechanic to get the battery looked at.

10. Invest in an ice scraper (and safety box)

Lastly, this is a simple tip compared to the previous automotive maintenance tips. Ice scrapers can be bought online, at auto shops, or in a variety of stores. You will not want to use your windshield wipers to scrape off ice. Preserve your wipers. Use an ice scraper instead.

If you do not keep your car in a garage, or if you are at work and it is snowing, the fastest way to get snow or ice off is with an ice-scraper. Use these without exerting too much force to protect your windows. This is a great tool to have.

Along with this, it is better to be safe than sorry. You will want to invest in a mini safety box consisting of a:

1. Small first aid kit
2. One or two water bottles
3. Flashlight
4. Towel
5. Whistle

You can add more if you want, but these will come in handy. If you get stranded where there is no heavy traffic, a whistle could let people know where you are. A flashlight can be used when your fuses go out in your car or if you are stranded at night. The towel and water bottles keep you warm and hydrated. The first aid kit will have band-aids, ointment, and more to help any wounds you may have.

The ice scraper can also come in handy with the safety box to keep your windows clear for a view of cars that could help you when stranded.

These 10 automotive maintenance tips will help you in any season, especially in the winter. After all, taking care of your car will help ensure that you only need the help of a personal injury law firm in the result of an emergency. You won’t get into an accident because of your car’s quality. These automotive maintenance tips help you travel. They lead you. Keep yourself safe. Keep your car safe.