12 of the Most Problematic Yet Common Car Issues

All vehicles need maintenance to stay operable. Although you try to keep up with the most recommended maintenance services, such as tire rotations and oil changes, issues may still occur. 

Moreover, the way you drive or your car model can also contribute to your car developing operating issues. So check out the list below to know more about the most common car problems. 

Common Car Issues

Alternator Failure

This is a part of your car that makes sure that all electrical systems stay running the moment the vehicle starts. Moreover, it’s responsible for providing an ample amount of charge to your car’s battery and keeps it in top shape. 

In case your alternator gives out, it may eventually generate a premature break down of the battery and cause various starting problems.

Broken Starter Motor

A starter motor is the one that cranks up your engine and starts the vehicle. 

When it fails, it’s commonly due to damage in the electrical solenoid, breakage of the starter motor, or occurrence of other electrical faults. Although you can replace a starter before it fails, it’s hard to foretell when it will actually happen. 

Getting your car inspected in reliable vehicle inspection companies, like Lemon Squad, to pinpoint the issue before concluding that it’s a problem with the starter is the best option.

Dead Battery

A drained battery is commonly due to lessened electrical currents that naturally diminish as the battery runs through its capability to sustain a charge. 

This problem can be accelerated by an impaired battery temperature sensor, alternator, or system charging parts. Replacing your battery once every three years or 50,000 miles, regardless if it is damaged or not is the best solution.

Failed Emission Test

A failed emission test can happen for countless reasons. A lot of emission centers inform you why your car failed, so you’d have the option of contacting a mechanic to carry out the repair you need.

Flat Tires

Although tires commonly become flat if an object struck or punctured it, it’s also likely for usual usage to cause it to wear out. 

You can prolong the lifespan of your tires by continuously rotating them, as advised by your car manufacturer.

Grinding Brakes

Brakes are important for stopping safely. Thus, when it shows hints of problems, such as a soft brake pedal, squealing, or squeaking, you should let a professional mechanic check it immediately. 

Although minor issues may cause squealing or squeaking noises, the moment the brakes begin to grind, it’s an obvious sign that they are due for replacement.

Overheating 

Countless modern vehicles have a really complex cooling system that contains numerous sensors which monitor the car’s flow, temperature, and various other features. 

Changing your car’s water pump even before it gives out and monitoring its radiator flush are two of the easiest ways to lessen the chances of developing overheating problems.

Poor Fuel Economy 

If the engine is working properly, it consumes fuel in a way that aids the improvement of the fuel economy. But, some of the fuel system’s parts such as fuel filters, mass airflow sensors, O2 sensors, and air filters eventually wear out. 

Once this occurs, it will make the engine consume a lot more fuel. Thus, being on top of routine servicing is one of the most effective solutions.

Shaking Steering Wheel 

A lot of issues may lead to the shaking of the steering wheel while driving. Once this occurs right after turning on your vehicle and starting to drive, damaged suspension parts or wheel bearings are usually the culprits. 

However, once it occurs at higher speeds, it’s commonly a tire or wheel balance problem. Nonetheless, getting a professional mechanic to inspect the car is the best solution to properly diagnose and straighten the issue.

Slipping Automatic Transmission 

Today’s modern automatic transmission comprises of numerous lines, seals, and gaskets which can be clogged or damaged. 

If this occurs, your transmission may not shift properly or it will slip. Follow the advised transmission maintenance for your car to avoid this issue.

Sputtering Engine

Although countless moving components aid the engine is running smoothly, engine misfiring or sputtering is still a very common problem. 

To lessen engine sputtering or misfiring problems, be sure to substitute fuel and ignition system parts as advised by your car’s manufacturer.

Warning Lights

A check or warning or engine light illuminates whenever the car’s Engine Control Unit finds that error code was set off by a sensor. 

Due to having more than 200 likely warning codes, getting a professional mechanic to carry out a warning light examination is the most efficient approach to pinpoint the cause and execute the proper repairs.

Takeaway

Completing maintenance and routine service is important in keeping your vehicle in top shape. However, there are times that car issues cannot be avoided, and every automobile will show specific hints on the problem. 

To lessen the chances of your car breaking down, and needing pricey repairs, it’s pertinent that you have an understanding of the usual vehicular issues that would likely arise and how to deal with them.

Author: Brandon Park