Having your vehicle malfunction or break down is one of the worst feelings in the world, and it often happens at the most inopportune times. Even worse? Not having the slightest clue as to what’s wrong with your vehicle.
While regular maintenance can help reduce the likelihood your vehicle will have issues, it doesn’t guarantee it. As a car owner, you should have at least a basic understanding of common car problems you could run into.
Continue reading to learn what these problems are and what you should do about them if they happen.
Dead Battery
Most car batteries last either three years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. A dead battery is usually caused by a reduction in the electric currents (amps). This reduction is a normal part of your battery’s aging process.
If your battery has already died, the best course of action is to replace it. You can avoid a dead battery by replacing it every three years or 50,000 miles, even if it hasn’t begun showing any signs of wearing down.
Poor Fuel Economy
When your engine runs efficiently, it burns fuel at an appropriate rate. This means you get the highest gas mileage for your vehicle’s model. Over time, many parts responsible for maintaining a high fuel economy will wear down or break.
A few of the system parts responsible for your vehicle’s fuel economy include:
- Air filters
- Fuel filters
- 02 sensors
- Mass Air Flow Sensors
One of the best things you can do to preserve your vehicle’s fuel economy is to get regular maintenance done on your car. The parts listed above should be replaced according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
If you’re already suffering from poor fuel economy, a trip to the mechanic is likely in order. They can help you determine which of the parts listed above have worn down and are contributing to your gas mileage issues. The mechanic can then replace the parts for you.
Sputtering or Misfiring Engine
Your engine needs a proper mix of air and fuel in the combustion chamber to run its best. Many different system components allow this to happen, including (among many other things) the catalytic convertor. You can read this article for more information on catalytic converters.
Resolving the issue of a sputtering or misfiring engine boils down to replacing any fuel or ignition system components. A mechanic can help you determine which parts need replacement. To prevent misfires, it’s best to replace these essential parts according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Do You Have More Questions About Common Car Problems?
If you receive regular maintenance on your vehicle, most common car problems can be avoided. As the car and its parts age, however, the likelihood of issues increases. The issues listed above are among the most common ones you’re likely to face.
Do you have more questions about common car problems?
Feel free to browse our other blog posts. You’ll find many posts on related topics to help you dive further into the matter.
