Vehicles are one of the biggest purchases many people will make next to their homes. So keeping it in the best condition possible is critical to protecting your investment. A well-maintained vehicle may run for hundreds of thousands of miles. That said, ignoring the recommended vehicle maintenance will kill your car, even if it’s brand-new!
Here are some signs how to know when your car needs maintenance:
- Illuminated Warning Lights –Today’s cars are filled with sensors, monitors, and computers, some of which help control your vehicles, such as anti-lock brakes, cruise control, and other handy features of modern cars. But the most important function of those sensors is to let you know when something is wrong. Here are the three most important warning lights:
- Check Engine Light
- Low Oil Light
- Tire Pressure Gauge
- Funny Noises – If your vehicle is running or sounding differently than it usually does, something may need attention. Knowing some of the basic noises and what they mean can help you communicate more effectively with your mechanic.
- Whining Under the Hood – Especially on older cars, this sound is almost always a loose belt. If a belt slips or breaks, it can cause extensive damage to the engine and other parts of your car.
- Unusual Engine Noise When Idling – When your car is idling, you should hear an even, consistent engine sound. If the noise coming from your engine has changed or seems to be popping, revving, or slowing, take your car to your auto shop before the problems get bigger.
- Grinding Metal – No two metal parts of your car should be grinding against each other. Take your vehicle to your mechanic to diagnose and fix the problem.
- Squealing Brakes – If your brakes are squealing, your brake pads are probably worn down and should be replaced as soon as possible. If the pads get too low, you can damage your rotors. Your brake pads also help dissipate the extreme heat caused by the friction of braking, leading to brake failure.
Whatever the symptom or cause, if your car stalls in an unsafe location, you could put yourself and others in harm's way. Get your vehicle into an auto shop as soon as possible.
Wondering how to know when your car needs maintenance? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about recommended vehicle maintenance and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE, and Doniphan, NE.
Vehicles are one of the biggest purchases many people will make next to their homes. So keeping it in the best condition possible is critical to protecting your investment. A well-maintained vehicle may run for hundreds of thousands of miles. That said, ignoring the recommended vehicle maintenance will kill your car, even if it’s brand-new!
Here are some signs how to know when your car needs maintenance:
- Illuminated Warning Lights –Today’s cars are filled with sensors, monitors, and computers, some of which help control your vehicles, such as anti-lock brakes, cruise control, and other handy features of modern cars. But the most important function of those sensors is to let you know when something is wrong. Here are the three most important warning lights:
- Check Engine Light
- Low Oil Light
- Tire Pressure Gauge
- Funny Noises – If your vehicle is running or sounding differently than it usually does, something may need attention. Knowing some of the basic noises and what they mean can help you communicate more effectively with your mechanic.
- Whining Under the Hood – Especially on older cars, this sound is almost always a loose belt. If a belt slips or breaks, it can cause extensive damage to the engine and other parts of your car.
- Unusual Engine Noise When Idling – When your car is idling, you should hear an even, consistent engine sound. If the noise coming from your engine has changed or seems to be popping, revving, or slowing, take your car to your auto shop before the problems get bigger.
- Grinding Metal – No two metal parts of your car should be grinding against each other. Take your vehicle to your mechanic to diagnose and fix the problem.
- Squealing Brakes – If your brakes are squealing, your brake pads are probably worn down and should be replaced as soon as possible. If the pads get too low, you can damage your rotors. Your brake pads also help dissipate the extreme heat caused by the friction of braking, leading to brake failure.
Whatever the symptom or cause, if your car stalls in an unsafe location, you could put yourself and others in harm's way. Get your vehicle into an auto shop as soon as possible.
Wondering how to know when your car needs maintenance? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about recommended vehicle maintenance and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE, and Doniphan, NE.
