There are some common car problems that can occur for just about any make and model of vehicle. However, most of them are very minor and you can easily repair them and get your vehicle back into good working condition in no time at all. We often take for granted that when we turn the key our vehicle will start.
One of the common car problems that you will have a dead battery. When that occurs your vehicle won’t start. You may have a loose connection that needs to be tightened.
One of the best ways to avoid this problem is to regularly check your battery when you are servicing your vehicle.
Make sure all of the connections are tight. You will find that many batteries have a warranty time period. If yours is getting close to that date, it is a good idea to replace it before you get stranded. You can purchase a new battery at any auto store or at many retail stores that have automotive departments.
There are manuals in these stores that will help you to research which battery is right for your make and model of vehicle. Replacing the battery in most vehicles is a very simple task. The battery should be held in place by a bracket that has one stud with a nut on it. The two battery cables will be attached with either a clamp style head or one that offers a bolt through the center.
When you are replacing a battery, make sure you are careful. You don’t want to touch any metal against the positive side of the battery. This can cause sparks or generate heat to the object you are handling.
Another of the common car problems has to do with overheating or the loss of coolant. Routine maintenance to your cooling system will help to reduce the chances of this becoming a problem for you. Check your hoses and clamps periodically too. If the clamps are loose tighten them up. If the hoses are worn you should replace them.
Have your coolant checked for the correct water/coolant mixture on a regular basis. This is something that can easily be evaluated when you do your routine oil change. If the coolant has been in the vehicle for a long period of time it is recommended that the entire system is flushed out. Then fresh coolant can be added.
Try to keep the radiator free from road debris such as bugs and mud. When you wash your vehicle, take the time to wash the radiator too. Be careful not to get too close though with the high pressure sprayer. This may damage the radiator.
Bulbs may go out on your vehicle too so have extras readily available. They include those for your turn signals, tail lights, and turn signals. You also want to have some basic tools on hand so that you are able to easily change them should you need to. You should also have a spare quart of oil and a gallon of coolant with you.
A flat tire is something that can happen and you just have to deal with it. Routine maintenance though can help you to avoid such a problem. Check the pressure in your tires often. You also want to rotate them on a regular basis. These efforts will assist in keeping the tread on your tires in good condition. Check your spare tire often too so that if you do need it, you will have it readily available.