Cars are very good listeners if you listen. A message is any message you hear, such as a squeal when braking, a vibration at highway speeds or a small orange light on the dashboard. They are usually warning signals, and you have ample time to correct the issue while it is still not too costly or hazardous. Ignore them, and the smaller issue can escalate into a breakdown on the road.
Here is a guide to some of the most common signals and what they might mean.
Dashboard Warning Lights
There are some 40+ warning lights in a modern car, and they are colour-coded for a reason. Red – STOP – generally stop driving immediately when it is safe. Orange or amber indicates that there is a need to attend to something soon. Green and blue lights are normally informational.
The check engine light is the most perplexing. It may be a loose fuel cap or an actual engine problem. A flashing check engine light may indicate a misfire which could lead to damage of the catalytic converter and should be addressed promptly.
Other key lights: oil pressure light, battery charging indicator, engine temperature indicator, and light for the brake system and airbag. Each is explained in your owner’s manual.
Squeals, Grinds and Clunks
If a brake squeals, it probably just needs cleaning, but if one squeals a lot, it’s likely that the brake pads are worn out. Lots of pads feature a little metal tab that will squeak when it’s time for it to end its service life. Grinding indicates that the pads are fully worn, and that the metal is touching the rotors, which is a problem that shouldn’t be put off.
Worn suspension parts like bushes, sway bar links or ball joints can be indicated by a clunk over bumps. If you hear a clicking noise when you are turning quickly, it is likely that you have a worn-out CV joint.
Vibrations and Pulling
If the steering wheel vibrates at specific speeds, it is most likely a sign that the wheels are out of balance. If the car pulls to one side, it could be due to unequal tyre pressure, misaligned wheels or sticking brakes. The brakes vibrate during braking, it may be a sign of warped rotors
These are factors that impact handling and tyres, and so they should be checked, not left to chance – they rarely go away on their own.
Smells Worth Noticing
If a sweet odor, such as maple syrup, is detected, it may be a sign of a coolant leak. If oil-burning smells come from the engine, it’s possible that oil is leaking onto the hot parts of the engine. One of the most common signs of a catalytic converter issue can be the smell of rotten eggs. Rubber burning may be due to a slipping belt or a hose touching something that is hot.
When smoke or a strong burning odor is detected, stop in a safe place and turn off the engine.
Leaks Under the Car
Clue on the Driveway: Spots. The appearance of clear water is typically from the air conditioning as condensation and not a problem to be concerned about. Coolant can be green, orange or pink fluid. When fluid is brown or black, it’s likely the engine oil. Transmission or power steering fluid may be red in color. Washer fluid may be blue.
Under the car overnight with a piece of cardboard to see the site and the colour of a leak.
Changes in Performance
Reduced fuel economy, sluggish acceleration, rough idling or difficulty starting all suggest something is not right. Causes range from dirty air filters and worn spark plugs to faulty sensors or fuel system issues. Regular servicing helps prevent many of these problems.
Why Prompt Attention Pays
With budget constraints, it’s easy to procrastinate on repairs. However, small issues tend to magnify. Dents in rotors can be caused by worn-out brake pads that have been left too long. If there is a small leak, coolant can cause the engine to overheat and cause significant damage to the engine. The earlier the problem is addressed, the less it will cost.
A trusted local mechanic can diagnose warning signs accurately, explain what needs immediate attention and what can wait, and give you a clear quote before any work begins, which takes much of the anxiety out of car repairs.
Building a Relationship With Your Workshop
Finding a workshop you trust brings peace of mind. Look for clear communication, transparent pricing and a willingness to show you worn parts. A trustworthy workshop has records for your car’s history, allowing them to identify trends and suggest preventative maintenance.
Get referrals from friends, family and neighbours and check out online reviews for a feel for other customers’ experiences. Seek workshops ready to answer phone calls and that can explain technical matters in simple terms without rushing you on the phone.
Simple Checks You Can Do Yourself
Keep tyre pressure checked between services (including spare tyre), on a monthly basis. Also check for damage in the tread and sidewalls. Regularly check oil and coolant levels, and add washer fluid as necessary. Ensure that all lights are functioning.
These quick checks only take a few minutes and will help keep you safer on the road and avoid issues.
Paying Attention
Your car is always telling you about how it’s feeling. Keeping an eye out for warning lights, strange sounds, smells, and performance changes can help you identify issues early. If you have this awareness and regular servicing, in addition to a good workshop, your family is safe, and your car stays running smoothly on each trip.
