According to statistics, car accidents in the UK account for 2% of all road traffic accidents. There are a variety of things you can do to help reduce your chances of being in an accident, and one of those is making sure that your car is properly taken care of.
When you own and drive a car, you always want to make sure that you are driving a vehicle in its best condition. This is to ensure that you can get to your destination safely and without injuring others along the way. But many car owners are hesitant to go to a mechanic, thinking that their car problems will go away over time. Here are some situations when you should definitely go to the repair shop immediately to have your car checked.
1. Have your vehicle checked regularly
Even when you don’t encounter any problems with your car, it’s still important to have it checked by a professional on a regular basis. This is because many car issues do not show symptoms until there’s already a major problem. Small problems can turn into bigger ones if not fixed early on, so it’s best to take your car in for general maintenance at least once every few months.
2. If you notice that the brakes are grinding
If you hear a loud and disturbing grinding noise when you step on the brake, it’s definitely time to take your car in for brakes repair. Car brakes are essential for safe driving, so you’ll want to have them fixed as soon as possible if they’re not working properly. You want to be able to brake safely, and this problem will only get worse if you ignore it.
3. If the engine light is on
The engine light is there for a reason – to tell you that something is wrong with your engine. It could be a simple problem, or it could be something more serious. But regardless, you’ll want to take your car in to get it checked out as soon as the light comes on. You may find problems such as a faulty engine, low oil levels, or problems with the fuel system.
4. If your car is leaking oil
If you notice that your car is leaking oil, it’s definitely time to take it in for repairs. This is because oil is essential for keeping your engine running smoothly. A car that’s low on oil can cause serious damage to the engine. Common oil leaks can include leaks from the gasket, the valve cover, or the oil pan.
5. If your car is vibrating or shaking
If your car is vibrating or shaking, it could be a sign that there’s something wrong with the engine. This problem can often be fixed by doing an engine tune-up. However, it’s best to have your car checked out by a mechanic to find the root of the problem.
6. If your car is making a weird noise
Weird noises that your car wasn’t making before could be a sign of a serious problem. If you hear any strange sounds, it may be because of a problem with the engine, the transmission, or the brakes. Get your car checked out as soon as possible to find the source of the noise and to prevent the problem from getting worse.
7. If you got into a car accident
If you got into a car accident, even if the damage doesn’t seem that bad, it’s best to take your car in for repairs. When you get into a collision, no matter how minor, there could be damage to the frame or the engine that’s not immediately visible. You want to make sure that your car is safe to drive before getting back on the road.
8. If the air conditioning isn’t working
If the air conditioning in your car stops working, it’s more than just an inconvenience. It can actually be dangerous, especially if you’re driving in hot weather. Driving without air conditioning can cause dehydration and fatigue, which can lead to accidents. Have your car’s air conditioning system checked out as soon as possible to stay safe on the road.
9. If your car won’t start
If your car won’t start, it’s definitely time to take it in for repairs. This problem could be caused by a number of things, such as a dead battery, a faulty starter, or a problem with the fuel system. Especially if you have encountered the problem multiple times before, it’s best to take your car in for repairs to find the root of the problem.
If you want to know when your car needs a mechanic, look no further. We’ve provided some signs that it’s time for repairs. Keep in mind that these are just general guidelines – if you think there’s something wrong with your car, it’s best to take it in for a check-up.
