Jun 29, 2020
We have said it before and we will say it again, it is so important that you keep on top of your car’s maintenance. One easy way of doing this, is to ensure your car is booked in for its yearly full service. Having a working, healthy car is essential for your daily commute to work, your trip to get the weekly food shop or for the school run.
The last thing you want is an unexpected breakdown or a costly repair. Prevention is always the best cure, so here are the signs that your car needs a service!
Nowadays, many cars have a service light that will come on to alert you that your next service is due. While it is nothing to worry about, you should not ignore it for too long!
Cars are good at telling you when they need to be looked at, so if a ‘check engine’ light appears on your dashboard, it’s telling you that you need to go to the garage for a service as soon as possible. Even if you don’t feel a difference in the performance in your car, the light is telling you that the part is not functioning properly. Do not ignore dashboard lights for too long, as they could turn into a costly repair.
There are many different noises that can occur from all areas of your car should there be a rising problem. If you hear a noise that seems unusual, then it is important you get it checked as this is an indicator something is wrong. Squealing noises can be related to your brakes, timing belt or power steering fluid, either way when you hear a noise it is worth getting your car in for a quick once over by a mechanic.
Are there different types of car servicing? Find out more about interim, full and major car services here! https://mycarneedsa.com/blog/are-there-different-types-of-car-servicing
If you have been experiencing vibrating or pulling when braking, this could be due to worn brake discs or pads, an issue with your steering or a potential suspension problem. Under no circumstances is your car safe to drive, so you need to get it serviced as soon as possible.
This can also be a sign of wear on your tyres, so check that your tyres have the minimum tread of 1.6mm and that they’re wearing evenly. Find out more about why tyre tread is important here! https://mycarneedsa.com/blog/why-is-tyre-tread-depth-important
When the radiator overheats, steam will come from under the bonnet and will be white in colour. If this occurs, you’re not in any immediate danger but you do need to get your car serviced as soon as possible.
If your car’s temperature gauge is high, pull over and wait for the car to cool before moving on. The needle needs to sit in the middle of the gauge before you can continue your journey.
Blue coloured smoke coming from the bonnet is caused by burning oil and can be costly if left ignored. Excessive smoke is also a sign of an oil leak. If you happen to experience either of these, pull over when it is safe to do so and call for someone to tow your car to a garage.
Particularly for new car owners, the vehicle manual is full of useful knowledge and will tell you the intervals at which you should service your car. By keeping a full-service history, you will help your car to retain its value when you go to sell on or trade-in.
These are just some of the signs that your car needs a service, and if you need to find a garage or mechanic in your area to carry out a service, MyCarNeedsA.com can help! Get quotes today, saving you both time and money. www.mycarneedsa.com/get-a-quote/
