Sensing Automotive Problems

The more you know about your vehicle, the more likely you’ll be able to head off repair problems. You can detect many common automotive problems by using your senses: looking at the area around your vehicle, listening for strange noises, sensing a difference in the way your vehicle handles, or even noticing unusual odors. The following helpful information from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and American Automobile Association (AAA) may help you recognize problems before they turn into major repairs.


Looks Like Trouble
Small stains or an occasional drop of fluid under your vehicle may not mean much. But wet spots deserve attention; check puddles immediately.

You can identify fluids by their color and consistency:


Smells Like Trouble
Some problems are under your nose. You can detect them by their odor:


Sounds Like Trouble
Squeaks, squeals, rattles, rumbles, and other sounds provide valuable clues about problems and maintenance needs. Here are some common noises and what they mean:

Squeal – A shrill, sharp noise, usually related to engine speed:

Click – A slight sharp noise, related to either engine speed or vehicle speed:

Screech – A high-pitched, piercing metallic sound; usually occurs while the vehicle is in motion:

Rumble – a low-pitched rhythmic sound.

Ping – A high-pitched metallic tapping sound, related to engine speed:

Heavy Knock – A rhythmic pounding sound:

Clunk – A random thumping sound:



Feels Like Trouble

Difficult handling, a rough ride, vibration and poor performance are symptoms you can feel. They almost always indicate a problem.

Steering

Ride and Handling

Brakes 
Brake problems have several symptoms. Schedule diagnosis and repair if:

Engine
The following symptoms indicate engine trouble. Get a diagnosis and schedule the repair.

Transmission
Poor transmission performance may come from actual component failure or a simple disconnected hose or plugged filter. Make sure the technician checks the simple items first; transmission repairs normally are expensive. Some of the most common symptoms of transmission problems are:

OC Automedics is your local auto repair shop in Rancho Santa Margarita. We repair and service all cars and truck both domestic as well as Japanese cars and German card. OC Automedics is truly your Dealer’s Alternative auto repair and service center. Bring in your car or truck for a free inspection today.

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