Your Car Talks — Are You Listening?

Your car may not speak words, but it communicates to you in lots of other ways if something isn’t right with the engine or tires or any of its many systems. It displays warning lights, makes weird noises and even emits strange smells. Attending to these signs now can prevent costly repairs later.

Dashboard Lights Are Warnings

If you leave a light on the dash of your car, it’s like your car is asking to be checked. A check engine light might not seem so urgent, but ignoring it could lead to larger issues. Always take dashboard lights seriously.

Strange Sounds Mean Trouble

Noisy brakes and whining engines Sound like squealing brakes or a whining engine can be a sign that certain parts need mending, but not always. Clicking, clunking or grinding noises are similarly not good signs that something is quite right either under the hood or around the wheels.

Vibrations and Steering Problems

If you have difficulty holding your steering wheel straight or experience the car pulling to one side, it could be an indication that your wheels are out of balance and not properly aligned. This can have implications for how safely your car drives.

Unusual Smells Are Important

Even the odor inside a car can be an alert. Never disregard the smell of something burning, gasoline or even musty mold. These may suggest leaks, overheating or issues in the air system.

Look at Your Car Often

You need to inspect your car often. Take a look at the tires, look at the level of oil, and see if there are any leaks under your car. It’s a quick and simple check to perform that takes only a few minutes but can save you from potentially serious issues.

STAYING STEADY Easy to keep up with habits that help keep your car healthy

Simply washing your car, maintaining tire pressure and changing the oil on schedule are all easy habits that keep your car — no matter what the make — running longer. You don’t have to be a mechanic to maintain your car — simply keep an eye out and act promptly.

Conclusion: Your Car Needs You To Listen

Hear your car; it’s always talking to you. Small cues like lights, sounds, smells or odd movement can be your early warning system. By noticing them early, you can keep your car running safely and save yourself a big repair bill.