When Your Car Asks For Help: Three Indicators Of Needed Maintenance

Car maintenance is part of owning and operating a vehicle. It certainly isn't the most exciting thing you'll ever do, but it can save you money and keep your car in tip-top shape. If you aren't bringing your car for regular maintenance checks, listed below are three indications that you should bring your car to a mechanic to be serviced.

Miles per Gallon (MPG) are Decreasing

This takes a bit of work to diagnose, but the concept is quite easy. If your car fuel efficiency is 17 mpg and the car's gas tank can hold up to 16 gallons, theoretically, one full tank should allow 272 miles (17 mpg x 16 gallon gas tank) to be traveled between fill-ups.

It isn't advisable to drive around until your tank is on empty to see how many miles you can really get (unless of course you're carrying a full gas caddy). But, knowing the average amount of miles you get for one full tank (or even half tank) of gas can tell you whether your car needs a tune up. There are many reasons that MPG decreases over time. An experienced mechanic can find the issue.

Your Car Has Become A Musical on Wheels

It can be easy to grow accustomed to the sounds your car makes, but new sounds should never be ignored, even if you believe the problem is not a serious one.

Different sounds mean different things, and sometimes a mechanic can diagnose a problem just by listening to the sound (even if it's your crummy imitation of it). Grinding and squealing noises are usually related to the brakes, but it can also be a wheel issue. A dragging or otherwise persistent noise may be an issue with the wheel, but it could also be the exhaust.

Don't assume the best and pretend it's not happening—when the sounds begin, bring your car in for a maintenance check ASAP.

Unexplained Leaks

No, that probably isn't a green-colored rain puddle underneath your car.

Leaks come in many forms. Some leaks are normal (water near the passenger side if you've been running your car's AC) while others are hinting at a more serious issue. Unexplainable leaks should be checked out and dealt with immediately by a mechanic. Leaks usually point to a specific issue. The leaked fluid can also be dangerous for children and animals.

If you've fallen behind on regular tune ups, your car may be trying to tell you something. The indicators above are just three of many indicators telling you to bring your car in for a tune up. If you're experiencing any of these problems, bringing your car to a knowledgeable mechanic like Advanced Auto Care is your best bet. 


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