Signs That Your Car Needs Service

You’re driving down the road minding your own business when you notice a new noise coming from your car. A thump, thump, thumping noise that is getting progressively louder. You stop and check the tires and they appear fine. What else do you do? Is something going to break? In this case, it might be time for the driver to take their vehicle to an automotive repair service center near Decatur and have the problem diagnosed and repaired. Let’s look at a few common reasons why you should do the same.

Check Engine Light

If there was a list, this would have to be number one. Back in the day, this dashboard naysayer was a harbinger of doom and more than often meant tragic things were happening under your hood. In today’s far more technologically advanced automobiles, it could mean a loose gas filler cap, an oxygen sensor, or a catastrophic engine failure. Even if the problem is a sensor, it’s more than likely costing you fuel mileage and therefore money.

 The Strange Noise

The most entertaining moment at any auto repair center is when a customer is attempting to explain to a service agent the specific noise that their car was making. Occasionally, there’s a comedic facial expression that accompanies the attempt. Descriptions such as Bump, bump, screech, clang, bang, and squeal are all well-represented. If it’s not obvious or maybe even if it is, the vehicle should most likely be taken in for service.

Brakes

What goes up, must come down and that includes your car’s speed. Brakes wear down. It is what they do. They sacrifice themselves so that drivers may be safer on the roads. Occasionally, your brakes when worn will squeal or grind in which case see reason number two. Other times, they may wear evenly but also too far which may result in increased stopping distances. Worn-out brakes may also pose increased risk potential if road conditions were to become hazardous.

 No Heat  

Nothing is worse than trying to drive an ice-cold car. If the engine is warm and you are not, then you might have more serious problems brewing. Hopefully, the vehicle is simply low on coolant but then there is the question of why. It could be a problem with the vehicle’s heater core or worse yet the engine’s coolant circulation system. A comfortable driver is a safer driver and an automotive repair service center near Decatur can help you be safer today.