No matter how much time and money you spend on preventative maintenance, you will most likely have to deal with at least a few car problems over the years. While many of those issues need to be taken care of immediately, there might be a few simple repairs that you can put off for another time. Here is a quick look at four of the most common car problems that drivers are going to run into.
Spark Plugs
Spark plugs are responsible for igniting the fuel-air mixture inside the engine’s combustion chamber. When these components are nearing the end of their lifespan, you are going to notice a wide variety of issues including poor fuel efficiency and rough idling. If your mechanic claims that you need new spark plugs, then you should try to have them replaced within the next few weeks. Failing to replace old spark plugs could result in further damage to your engine.
Catalytic Converter
The catalytic converter’s primary job is to filter out some of the harmful compounds that an engine produces so that they don’t make their way into the atmosphere. While new catalytic converters can be quite expensive, they usually last for a decade or two. With the proper maintenance, your catalytic converter might work flawlessly for 25 years or longer. This component doesn’t usually need to be replaced right away, but your car probably won’t pass a smog test if the catalytic converter is failing.
Brakes
Issues with your vehicle’s brakes should never be ignored, and you must have the pads replaced well before the end of their lifespan. Some of the most common signs of failing brakes include squealing sounds when you press on the brake pedal and shuttering when you are coming to a stop. The vehicle might also veer to one side whenever the brakes are being engaged. In most cases, brake pads last between 30,000 and 70,000 miles.
Tires
As for your vehicle’s tires, you should always err on the side of caution and replace them immediately if you notice any signs of damage. That includes bulges in the sidewalls, cracked rubber, discoloration, and extremely worn tread. Luckily, replacing old tires is a relatively easy and inexpensive job that should take an experienced mechanic around 30 minutes to complete. Keeping your tires properly inflated and regularly rotating them will substantially increase their lifespan.
From brakes to turbo charger, even if the car issue seems relatively minor, you should always consult with a trustworthy mechanic before making any decisions. A reliable mechanic can help you take care of simple car troubles before they become major issues.
