Common Reasons for Car Breakdowns & How to Prevent it

We rely on our vehicles almost everyday, but there’s always that chance that when you turn the key it just won’t start. Or even worse, it cuts out on you when your driving down the road.  Knowing the most common causes of car failure, however, can help you better prevent the need to call a tow truck.

The Problem and Prevention:

The Problem: Check Engine Light

The sight of a “service engine soon” light can mean many different things—some simple enough to fix yourself (like a cracked or loose gas cap) and others requiring a trip to the mechanic.

Prevention: Read the service schedule and stick to it to keep things running in tip-top shape. 

The Problem: Flat Tire

It’s good to know how to fix a flat yourself, but it’s even better to give tires regular TLC to reduce the chances of a blowout in the first place.

Prevention: Set a reminder in your phone to check your tire pressure once a month. To add or release air, use an air compressor or a gas station air machine. While you’re down there, check the treads too, to make sure they’re not worn out.  

The Problem: Car Overheating

Keep your eyes on the temperature gauge and look out for an “engine overheating” message or lit radiator icon on your dashboard. You may also notice steam coming from the hood. If you smell gas, that’s a different problem—most likely a fuel leak.

Prevent It: Check your coolant levels at the beginning of every season. If the liquid doesn’t reach the FULL line on the reservoir, add a 50/50 mix of water and coolant until it does.

The Problem: Dead Car Battery

Although most people associate a dead car battery with winter, just like with the cooling system in your car, soaring temps can put extra stress on the battery and cause battery fluid to evaporate.

Prevent It: It is best to have a professional check your battery, starter and alternator. 

Remember Ignoring a problem won’t make it go away.

The point is, the longer you ignore a problem, the worse it is going to get and it won’t go away on its own.

As soon as you hear a strange noise coming from your car or notice a difference in the way it drives, get you vehicle to a professional.  Explain what it is that you have noticed. Doing this will help you avoid bigger and costlier problems further down the road.

If you hear any strange noise, a light on your dashboard has lit up or your vehicle is not performing at its optimal level - give Mechanics At Work a call 0435 812 747.  We service all vehicle types covering the wider Brisbane area.  We look forward to helping you.