Cars don’t break down suddenly, unless you’ve hit a deep pothole or are involved in an accident. Your car always communicates with you, showing warning signs beforehand. The problem is that many drivers often ignore these warning signs and don’t opt for regular maintenance of their car. Ultimately, experience car break-downs in the middle of nowhere and face unnecessary stress.
Here’s a brief guide to the top 5 signs that your car is about to break down and you should never ignore.
Top Warning Signs Your Car May Break Down.
Modern-day vehicles are designed for maximum convenience and ease for the drivers. Even the older vehicles have basic communication systems that indicate any possible problem with the car’s system early. The top warning signs that your car shows before it may break down are;
- Some dashboard lights are always on, i.e. check engine, temperature gauge, etc.
- Unusual noises while driving your car.
- Burning smells or smoke coming out.
- Reduced performance, i.e. power loss and minimised response from the car.
- Car starting issues.
Why You Should Never Ignore Early Car Warning Signs.
Resolving car warning signs early can not only save you time and unnecessary stress but also offer great cost savings. Diagnosing any issues with the car early and opting for timely fixes often comes at a much cheaper cost than repairs after a breakdown. For example, sometimes a cheap and very small thing, i.e. a fuse, can lead to a major electrical system failure that leads to fires or major issues with the car. On the other hand, if you replace the fuse in time, it is not only inexpensive but also time-saving.
So, you should always get regular maintenance on your car to;
- Increase its lifespan.
- Keep yourself and others on the road safe.
- Prevent expensive repairs and maintenance costs in the long run.
5 Signs Your Car Is About to Break Down.
Here are the top 5 signs that your car is about to break down on the road.
Warning Lights on the Dashboard.
Dashboard warning lights are one of the first signs that indicate there’s a problem with your car. There’s a cluster of lights on your dashboard that turn on while starting and go away when the car’s engine is running. However, if any of the light is till on, there’s a serious problem with your car. There are different types of dashboard warning lights. Prominently including;
- Check engine light.
- Coolant temperature gauge/light.
- Tire pressure.
- Traction control.
- Oil pressure light.
- Battery alert.
- Brake system/ABS warning.
Strange Noises While Driving.
If you hear strange noises while driving your car, it’s high time that you go to a mechanic on a priority basis. It can be a problem with your car’s engine, gearbox, braking or suspension system. If any of this fails, it can lead to breakdowns or even accidents in worst-case scenarios. Typically;
- Grinding noise means an issue with the brakes or transmission.
- A knocking sound indicates engine problems.
- Squealing is a sign of worn belts or brakes.
- Clicking often occurs when there are battery, starter motor, ignition or alternator issues.
- A rattling or clunking sound is a direct sign of worn-out suspension elements.
Smoke or Burning Smell.
If you smell a burning scent or see smoke coming out of your car, it’s a red flag that requires immediate attention. It can be a sign of a leakage, overheating or electrical wiring failures. When you encounter it, immediately turn off your car engine.
Loss of Power or Poor Performance.
Loss of power or poor performance is a very serious issue and a leading cause of many road accidents. Imagine if your car suddenly becomes unresponsive to your controls and loses power, what chances are there for you to save yourself and others from the road? This loss of power and poor performance is directly related to your car’s electrical systems, including alternator, air/oil filters, fuel/oil/brake pumps, and even the battery itself.
Difficulty Starting the Car.
If your car takes longer to start or makes clicking noises during ignition, it’s an issue related to the battery, starter motor, and alternator. If you drive a manual, you can start your car with a physical push. However, an automatic transmission requires towing. So to avoid both of these unpleasant situations, get your car’s electrical system, especially the battery, checked on time.
Bonus Warning Signs Most Drivers Ignore.
Sometimes, some minor warning signs don’t show immediately on your car’s dashboard or in its performance. Such as;
- Leaks under your car when you take it out in the morning.
- Vibrations and misfires while you are driving the car.
- Poor fuel efficiency.
- Reduced steering response.
- Ineffective braking, or the braking pedal might feel too soft/stiff.
What to Do If Your Car Shows These Signs?
When your car shows these warning signs, don’t ignore them. Immediately head to a certified mechanic or a workshop for proper diagnosis and fix. If you are unable to go to a mechanic, reduce driving and avoid long trips.
How to Prevent Your Car from Breaking Down?
You can prevent your car from breaking down by simply getting timely maintenance and fixes. Service your car regularly, i.e. as indicated in your car’s manual. Check your car’s fluid levels and consistency every two weeks. Replace worn-out parts in time, don’t go for cheap repairs or DIY fixes. Get your car inspected by professional mechanics every 6 months.
Car Maintenance Checklist.
Here’s a brief yet comprehensive car maintenance checklist for you to check on your own.
- Check the level of engine oil every month if you drive a normal mileage and twice a month for a car with high mileage drive.
- Make sure to keep your coolant level balanced and check it every week.
- Inspect and service your braking system every 10,000 km to 15,000 km, i.e., depending upon your driving and braking habits.
- Get a maintenance-free battery to avoid the hassle of battery water top-up. If the car is not in use for a long time, disconnect the terminals to preserve battery life.
- Check your tyre pressure every time you go for refuelling and make sure to use tyres with a good tread thickness.
- Clean your air and cabin filters every 1,500 km to 2,000 km and replace as needed.
- Ensure that all of your car lights are in working condition. It includes indicators, brake lights, parking lights, head lights and fog lamps.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signs that your car is going to break down?
Warning signs which indicate your car is going to break down include unusual noises, dashboard lights, burning scent or smoke, reduced performance, and difficulty starting.
Can a car break down without warning?
Yes, a car can break down without warning, but it’s very rare, i.e. if it’s involved in an accident or hits a major pothole. Otherwise, warning signs always show up beforehand.
How do I know if my engine is failing?
If your car engine is making knocking/grinding sounds and you are experiencing reduced engine performance, it’s a bad sign.
Is it safe to drive with warning lights on?
No, it is not safe to drive with warning lights on. You should get it checked as soon as possible and opt for suitable fixes.
What should I do if my car breaks down on the road in the UK?
If your car breaks down on the road in the UK, pull over safely to the side (if you can), turn on hazard lights, exit the vehicle and call for assistance.