Nothing spoils a road trip like a car breakdown. While certainly not an everyday occurrence, at some point, all of us have probably faced this. Knowing the top reasons for these hiccups can empower you to dodge them like a pro. Stay in the know and stay ahead of these common causes of repairs to mitigate any delays.
Faulty battery. Did you know almost one-third of all car breakdowns are due to faulty or dead batteries? This is usually the result of a bad cell in the battery that doesn’t get charged properly and causes the car to die without warning. At times, corroded terminals of the battery may also prevent it from getting charged. Keep an eye on your battery health monthly to avoid these surprises.
Fuel problems. Filling up your gas tank with the wrong type of fuel is not that uncommon of a fiasco, especially when in a hurry. The best way to avoid this is to keep an eye on your fuel gauge and get your tank refilled as soon as it gets to a quarter of a tank.
Flat tires. Potholes, sharp objects, and slow leaks are all potential culprits. Keep your tires properly inflated and inspect them regularly. If you do get a flat, make sure your spare is in good condition and that you have the necessary tools to change it.
Overheating. This can be caused by low coolant levels, a malfunctioning thermostat, or a faulty water pump. Regularly check your coolant levels and have your cooling system inspected for any issues.
Alternator failure. The alternator charges the battery and powers your car’s electrical system. If it fails, your car may stall, and the battery could die. Signs of alternator problems include dimming headlights, warning lights on the dashboard, and difficulty starting the engine.
While breakdowns are never fun, being proactive with regular maintenance checks can go a long way in preventing many of these issues. So, here’s to smoother and more reliable journeys!
Fueled by DriversAutoKnow.com®
