Routine maintenance is a good reason to bring your car in to the mechanic. If your dashboard lights turn on, or if there’s smoke coming from under your hood, or if you experience other issues, it’s likely that you will need to take your vehicle to the shop. It is important to know what you can do and what your car needs.
When is it best to take your car in to the mechanic?
Routine car maintenance
Routine maintenance can be compared to an annual physical with a doctor: it prevents problems from getting worse.
You can find information in your car manual about when parts, such as plugs and filters, should be replaced. A dashboard light may be installed to let you know when your car needs an oil change.
If the check engine light is on
There are many reasons why your check engine light might come on, but not all of them are emergency situations. It is important that a mechanic Oxford diagnoses the problem.
Here are some common options:
Sparks plugs and ignition coils must be replaced
It is necessary to replace oxygen sensors
Problems with catalytic converters
The evaporative emissions purge valve must be replaced
Pro Tip: A check engine light on your car will not allow it to pass inspection. It’s better to fix the problem immediately.
If your oil pressure light is on
When the oil level is very low, your oil pressure light will come on. Low engine oil can cause engine damage. Make sure you schedule an oil change immediately.
If your car’s battery light turns on or your car stops working,
There are many things that a glowing battery light could signify. Your car isn’t receiving enough voltage to allow it to run.
Although you might be able jumpstart your car to get home, it’s likely that you will experience the same problem once again. This problem must be fixed as soon as possible.
If you hear something unusual,
If you hear a grinding sound when you brake, it is likely that your brake pads, brake rotors and/or brake calipers need to be replaced. This is a serious problem that requires immediate attention from the mechanic.
The noise coming from your wheel can be either harmless or very serious. It’s important to not take it lightly. It could be a sign that a rock has got into your router or caliper. If this is the case, the stone will pop out of your brake pedal.
Sometimes, this could indicate that the wheel bearings need to be replaced. This could lead to your wheel falling off and should be addressed immediately by a mechanic.
Smoke from underneath your hood is a sign that you have smoke problems
Experts make distinctions between the colors of smoke and steam coming from engine compartments. However, any smoke can indicate a potential serious problem.
A white smoke sign is often associated with an overheated car. Pull over to the side, lift the hood if it’s safe and wait until the car cools off.
Blue smoke is often a sign that your car has oil burning. This can cause engine damage and should be addressed by a mechanic.
You should contact us immediately if you have any problems with your steering.
You should bring your car to a mechanic immediately if your steering wheel feels loose or pulls to one side. If you can’t steer your car properly, you may not be in control of it. This could pose a risk to you and others.
If your airbag light turns on
Since their introduction, airbags have saved many lives. Your airbag light may indicate that your airbags are not working in an accident. To diagnose the problem, take your vehicle to a mechanic.
You can choose to have your mechanic do the work instead
Tire pressure adjustment
Your tire pressure light will turn on if you have too little air. Use a tire pressure gauge to determine the level of your tires and add air as needed.
Fluid for windshield wipers
It is easy to refill your window wiper fluid. Find the cap on the wiper fluid and fill it up.
Oil changes
It depends on the make and model of your car whether changing your oil is easy. Also, you will need to change the oil filter. You’ll need drop off your used oil at an approved recycling centre. This is usually located near where car oil is sold.
Replacing light bulbs
It is easy for most people to change their headlight bulbs. The bulbs can be purchased at most auto stores. Check your manual to verify which type you require. You can also search YouTube for a how-to tutorial.
Replacing wipers
Wiper blades can be replaced easily. Make sure you get the right blades for your vehicle.