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10 Signs Your Vehicle Needs Car Maintenance
We know that it may seem biased for us to talk about how important it is to get your vehicle checked out often, but hear us out–we’ve seen some things here at Brookside “66” Service. We understand where our customers are coming from, too. Life is busy, sometimes things are chaotic, and it’s easier to turn the radio up when you hear your car making some kind of strange sound than to figure out what it is.
However, you mustn’t ignore the signs that your vehicle needs some servicing. If you’ve noticed any of the ten following warning signs that your vehicle needs maintenance, it may be time to see your mechanic.
Your check engine light comes on.
The check engine light, like the Bat Signal, is an important indicator of trouble. The check engine light comes on when there is something wrong with your car’s emissions system, which can lead to other problems down the road. If the light comes on, you should get it checked by a mechanic right away.
Your engine is making strange noises.
When you hear a strange noise from the engine, it can be hard to determine if the sound comes from something simple or severe. You should listen carefully and identify whether the sound is rhythmic or irregular and how it changes with engine speed. Regardless, you should see a mechanic if the noise continues.
Your car is due for an oil change.
If you notice that one or more of your vehicle's tires are worn unevenly, it's time to check up. This is especially true if the wear is concentrated in just a few spots on the tread. It may also be cause for concern if you feel any vibrations when driving over bumps, particularly if they increase when going over speed bumps at freeway speeds.
Your tire pressure keeps changing.
Another sign that your tires need attention is air pressure loss, which can occur due to damage from potholes and normal wear and tear on the tire itself.
You have dashboard warning lights turned on, besides the check engine light.
If you've looked at your dashboard and thought to yourself, "Wait, why are there so many lights?" it may be time to bring in the experts. The check engine light is the most common warning light to turn on, but other warning lights can indicate a problem with your vehicle.
You see smoke or steam coming from your car's bonnet.
It's a sign that your car is overheating and may need serviced soon. If you continue driving, it could damage your engine and leave you stranded on the side of the road with no way to call for help.
Your braking distance has increased considerably.
You’ll need more than just a new pair of shoes if your braking distance has increased considerably. If your car stops with a lot more force than it used to, that can mean a problem with either the tires or the brakes.
Your steering wheel vibrates or shakes when you are driving at high speeds.
Your steering wheel vibrates or shakes when you are driving at high speeds. You may have a problem with your tires, which can be caused by bad alignment or worn shock absorbers. If your tires are not aligned properly, or the shocks are worn out, it will make the vehicle bounce around more and make it harder for you to control the steering wheel.
You’re due for some preventative maintenance.
All of our car parts have expiration dates–some of them will come no matter how well we take care of our vehicle. Belts, batteries, lights, all these things need to be replaced every once in a while. Check your owner's manual and compare it against your mileage to see if you’re due for maintenance.
It's been a long time since your last visit to the mechanic (if no other symptoms are present).
Another sign is that you must check your car if you haven't seen the mechanic in a while. If you can't remember when it was the last time you had your car looked at, then it's time to take action.
Come see us at Brookside “66” Service!
Here at Brookside “66” Service in KC, we want to work with you. We know that nobody wakes up wanting to go see a mechanic (though we are always excited to see you!), and we’ll work with you to prioritize your needs. Come and visit us now at 6244 Main St., Kansas City, MO 64113, or book your appointment here before you go. Our skilled auto mechanics will prepare your vehicle for the new school year with quality repairs and friendly service! Remember, it’s always best to take care of your vehicle before the big day arrives so that you can focus on driving safely and comfortably with your kids.