Today’s vehicles are more reliable and dependable than ever, especially when you have regular preventative maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, brake repair, and other services. Even when you have preventative maintenance formed as suggested by the manufacturer, you will eventually need auto repair and car repair in Iowa City IA. But how do you know your vehicle needs auto repair?
Unfortunately, your vehicle can’t verbally talk to you and say, “Hey…I think my catalytic converter is about to go out in a few months.” Although your vehicle can’t talk, it can communicate with you. And it often does so by appealing to your natural senses. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top ways your vehicle communicates if it needs an auto repair.
Don't Ignore the Light Show
One of the top ways your vehicle communicates with you is through dashboard warning indicators. Every vehicle uses an onboard diagnostics (OBD) system that continually scans various components. This intelligent computer also works around the clock to regulate performance factors, such as:
- Fuel mixture
- Engine speed
- Ignition timing
In many instances, the OBD system can remedy or correct minor issues. But if it can’t, it will ask for your assistance by triggering a dashboard warning indicator. Some of the top and most common dashboard indicator warnings include:
- Tire Pressure Warning Light
- Oil Pressure Warning Light
- Traction Control Alert Light
- Check Engine Light
- Battery Alert Light
- And more
If your vehicle has an illuminated dashboard indicator, the worst thing you can do is ignore it. Instead, it’s best to contact Iowa City Tire & Service for vehicle diagnostics and car repair. However, if you choose to ignore the dashboard warning, you can turn a minor repair into a much more expensive auto repair service.
Ew...What's That Smell?
Few things smell worse than rotten eggs! But if you’re smelling rotten eggs from your car, your AC accumulator may be on the way to the junkyard. The AC accumulator is a cylindrical component that filters the AC system. However, if your AC accumulator becomes clogged, it can emanate the grotesque odor of rotten eggs. Fortunately, the car repair to remedy this problem is quick and relatively inexpensive.
Did You Hear That Squealing Sound?
As the driver of your vehicle, you know the sounds your car should make, such as the purring of the engine or the rumbling of the exhaust. If your vehicle begins grinding and squealing when you apply the brakes, it means you need brake repair. Oftentimes, your vehicle will make squealing or grinding sounds whenever the brake pads have worn down and need replacement. At the same time, these sounds can be caused by other brake components that need service or replacement. Simply put, you can’t afford to ignore your vehicle’s request for brake repair. Whether you need brake pad replacement, master cylinder replacement, brake fluid flush, brake line repair, or any other service in Iowa City IA, Iowa City Tire & Service can and will help.
Is Your Vehicle Pulling a Fast One on You?
When you drive your vehicle, your steering wheel and tires should naturally remain straight with minimal input. However, over time, you may find that your vehicle veers to the left or right. This can cause you to feel as if you’re fighting with your steering wheel to keep it straight. In most instances, this means your vehicle needs wheel alignment auto repair. A wheel alignment refers to the adjustment of your vehicle’s suspension, which is the system that connects your wheels to your vehicle. When you have a wheel alignment, you will:
- Improve steering and responsiveness
- Bolster fuel efficiency
- Ensure a smoother ride
- Reduce other auto repairs
- Maximize the life of your tires
