Having car issues? You may certainly think that the best thing you can do is to take the car to a mechanic (and you are quite right). However, having a general idea of what is wrong with your vehicle is crucially important.
Here are the 7 most common car issues (in no particular order) and their causes drivers should be aware of.
- Problems Starting the Car
So you get in your car and twist the ignition key to start it. But the car refuses to start. Oh, my… What the heck is going on!
In fact, there are a number of reasons which can cause a car not to start. A dead battery is the most common reason. If you are sure the battery is working properly, but your car still doesn’t start, you might have a problem with the ignition switch. But if you hear a clicking noise when you try to start the vehicle, the starter could be the issue. Finally, your car may not start because of a clogged fuel filter (which prevents enough fuel from reaching the engine).
- Dead Battery
A dead battery is one of the common car issues. But what causes a battery to die? If you leave your lights on (well, we all do), or the door open for a long time, you can drain the battery. Other causes include:
- The battery connections are loose or corroded;
- It’s extremely hot or cold outside;
- Something is causing a “parasitic draw’’;
- The battery is old.
Always remember to replace your car battery every 50,000 miles or three years, even if it’s not showing any signs of damage.
- Overheating Engine
Engines can overheat for many reasons. In most cases, it’s because something is wrong with the cooling system. The source of the issue could include a cooling system leak, radiator issues or broken water pump, blocked hoses from corrosion and mineral deposits, etc.
Warning: If you feel like your vehicle is overheating, DON’T drive farther. Pullover and stop your car.
- Loose Steering Wheel
If your steering feels loose, you may find it difficult to control the vehicle. The most common causes for loose steering wheels are looseness in the steering gear itself or looseness in one or more of the steering linkage sockets. Needless to say, having little control over your wheels and driving with a non-responsive steering system is extremely dangerous.
- Weird or Unusual Smell
If you smell something unpleasant in your car, don’t ignore it. An unusual smell in your car can indicate a variety of problems. For example, an unpleasant scent is a sign that something is leaking or burning (or both) underneath the hood.
- Seat Belt Defects
Although you have probably heard this a thousand times, it’s worth repeating: Wearing a seat belt can save lives and prevent injuries in the event of an accident. It’s no secret that seat belts are the most effective safety technology in the history of the automobile.
Though seat belts save lives, seat belt failures can bring about serious injuries or even death. Thus take immediate action if you think the seat belts of your car are defective!
- Brake and Accelerator Pedal Defects
Defective brake and accelerator can cause serious accidents and injuries. Thus stop driving and take immediate action if you feel like you have no control over how fast you’re going.
Defective Vehicles and Lemon Laws
Stuck with a defective vehicle? Don’t panic! If your vehicle has a safety issue or other known defect that can’t be repaired after a reasonable number of repair attempts, you may either receive a refund or a replacement vehicle. So contact a lemon law lawyer today to learn more about your rights under your state’s Lemon Law. Call us today at (818) 553 -1000 for a FREE consultation with one of our experienced lemon law attorneys.
