Just like when people get sick, your vehicle can show symptoms before breaking down. If your vehicle shows any of the following symptoms, you should contact a mechanic ASAP, to avoid any further damage to your vehicle.
Ticking or Knocking coming from the engine. This can be as simple as low oil; be sure to check your oil level and stay up to date with oil changes. However, this noise can also mean bad valves inside the engine or a timing belt getting ready to break.
Squealing or Squeaking coming from tires. This can range from low tire pressure to needing an alignment to needing brake service. Check your tire pressure and inspect your tires for uneven wear. Take notice to when you apply your brakes, if the pedal feels soft or spongy you may need brakes.
Thunking or Thumping when going over bumps. This noise points to something suspension related. Does your vehicle bounce a lot even after you have passed over a bump? A shock or strut could be going bad. However, it could be another suspension part like a broken sway bar link.
Hard Shift when shifting gears. A hard shift can range from low transmission fluid to a clogged transmission filter to bad shift solenoids inside the transmission. Check your transmission fluid; some vehicles have a sealed unit that prevent you from checking the fluid level.
White/Blue/Black Smoke coming from the exhaust. This means something's wrong with your engine or emissions parts of your vehicle. It can range from a carbon build up to your engine burning oil to a dangerous irregular mixture within the engine.
Smoking. Any type of smoking coming from any part of your vehicle is a major concern. Turn off your vehicle and do not drive.
Pulsing or Spongy Brake Pedal. If you can feel pulsing or your brake pedal feels spongy you may need new brakes. Have you noticed any squealing coming from your tires? Routine brake maintenance is a must. Contact your mechanic to schedule a brake service.
If your vehicle has any of these symptoms or if you have any questions, contact your mechanic.
J&S FixQuik Automotive | Mobile Auto Repair | Aurora, IL
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