At AUTOMAX, we understand that owning a vehicle comes with its fair share of concerns. Whether it’s a car that won’t start, a strange noise, or an unexpected warning light, car troubles can be frustrating. To help you out, we’ve compiled answers to 15 of the most common car issues along with possible solutions.
If your car won’t start, the most common reasons include:
Dead battery: Check if your headlights or dashboard lights are dim.
Faulty starter motor: If you hear a clicking sound, your starter might be the issue.
Fuel system problems: Low fuel pressure or clogged fuel injectors can prevent the engine from running.
Solution: Try jump-starting the car. If that doesn’t work, check the battery terminals for corrosion or seek professional help.
A foul smell from the AC is usually caused by:
Mold and bacteria buildup in the vents.
A clogged cabin air filter that needs replacement.
Moisture accumulation inside the evaporator.
Solution: Replace the cabin air filter and use an AC disinfectant spray to eliminate odors.
Engine vibrations can be caused by:
Worn-out engine mounts that fail to absorb movement.
Dirty fuel injectors, leading to uneven combustion.
Misfiring spark plugs, causing rough idling.
Solution: Get your engine mounts checked, clean the fuel injectors, and replace spark plugs if necessary.
If your temperature gauge is rising, possible causes include:
Low coolant levels due to a leak.
A faulty thermostat that’s stuck closed.
A broken radiator fan, preventing proper cooling.
Solution: Check coolant levels, inspect the radiator for leaks, and ensure the fan is working.
A shaking steering wheel is often caused by
Unbalanced or misaligned wheels.
Worn-out suspension components.
Warped brake rotors (especially if it shakes while braking).
Solution: Get a wheel alignment and balance, and inspect the suspension and brakes
Worn-out brake pads that need replacement.
Dirty or rusted brake rotors causing friction.
Low brake fluid reducing braking efficiency.
Solution: Replace brake pads, clean rotors, and check fluid levels.
This could indicate:
A loose gas cap causing a pressure issue.
A faulty oxygen sensor affecting fuel efficiency.
An engine misfire due to worn-out spark plugs.
Solution: Use an OBD2 scanner to check the error code or visit a professional for a diagnosis.
Excessive fuel usage could be due to:
A clogged air filter reducing airflow.
Low tire pressure, increasing rolling resistance.
A malfunctioning oxygen sensor, leading to inefficient fuel burning.
Solution: Replace the air filter, maintain proper tire pressure, and drive smoothly.
Different colors of leaks indicate various issues:
Green or orange: Coolant leak.
Dark brown: Engine oil leak.
Red or pink: Transmission fluid leak.
Solution: Identify the leak source and get it checked before it leads to major damage.
A weak battery struggling to provide enough power.
A bad starter motor, preventing engine ignition.
Corroded battery terminals affecting power flow.
Solution: Check the battery voltage and clean the terminals. If the problem persists, the starter may need replacement.
Solution: Check engine oil levels, inspect the coolant system, and clean fuel injectors.
Signs of a slipping transmission include delayed gear shifts and sudden loss of power. Causes include:
Low transmission fluid reducing lubrication.
A worn-out clutch in manual transmissions.
Internal transmission damage affecting gear engagement.
Solution: Check and refill transmission fluid, and if the issue continues, consult a mechanic.
This happens due to
Misaligned wheels, leading to uneven tire wear.
Uneven tire pressure, affecting stability.
A stuck brake caliper, causing drag.
Solution: Get a wheel alignment and check tire pressure. If braking feels uneven, have the calipers inspected.
Solution: Clean headlights, check battery voltage, and inspect the alternator.
A rattling noise can come from:
Loose heat shields under the car.
An issue with the exhaust system.
Worn-out engine components.
Solution: Inspect under the car for any loose parts and secure them properly.
Owning a vehicle comes with occasional issues, but with proper maintenance, many of these problems can be prevented. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t ignore them, getting a timely inspection can save you from expensive repairs down the road.
automax ® is a leading provider of exporting services for brand-new vehicles. We have been in business for over 27 years, and we have assisted thousands of customers import vehicles from Dubai to all over the world.
