Your car will almost always indicate when something is wrong. The issue is that most drivers don’t listen.
It is generally recommended to service your car once a year or after 10,000 kilometres, whichever comes first. However, every car is different, and so is the way we use it. Along with following a regular car servicing schedule, you should also pay attention to the signs your car gives you.
Warning Signs Your Car Needs a Service
Unfortunately, many warning signals are subtle and therefore hard to pick up on. Here are the signs that your car needs immediate servicing:
Dashboard Warning Lights and Unusual Noises
Here are some common warning lights to watch for on your dashboard:
- Check Engine light: A flashing engine light can indicate a big or small issue. Always get the issue diagnosed, even if the car feels alright.
- Oil pressure warning: This indicator goes off when your car has low oil pressure, which can cause engine damage.
- Battery warning: This means there’s an issue with the charging system.
- Temperature warning: This means your engine is overheating. You should not drive your car.
Listen for these noises in your car as well:
- Knocking or tapping from the engine
- Squealing when braking
- Grinding when changing gears
- Rattling underneath
Decreased Performance
A conspicuous drop in how the car drives is a reliable sign that something needs attention. Keep an eye out for:
- Sluggish acceleration
- Poor fuel efficiency
- Difficulty starting
- Rough idling
- Longer warm-up time
Any of these (especially in combination) typically warrant a car service checklist review with your mechanic.
Fluid Leaks, Vibrations and Burning Smells
You may sometimes notice fluid leaking under your car. Different fluids point to different problems:
- Dark brown or black: Engine oil leak
- Red or brown: Transmission fluid
- Clear, red or brown: Power steering fluid
- Bright green, pink, blue-green or orange: Coolant leak
- Clear fluid near tyres (that may turn darker): Brake fluid
If your seat or the steering wheel vibrates, it can mean the following issues:
- Wheel alignment or balancing issues
- Worn tyres or suspension components
- Brake rotor warping
Burning smells in your car should never be ignored:
- Burning rubber: Could be a slipping belt or a tyre touching a hot component
- Acrid electrical smell: Possible wiring issue or overheating motor
- Sweet smell: Often a coolant leak near the engine
- Rotten eggs or sulphur: Old transmission fluid leak or bad fuel sensors
Poor Braking Performance
Your brakes are an extremely important part of car maintenance. Get them checked immediately if you notice:
- The car pulling to one side when braking
- A ‘soft’ feeling when pressing the brake pedal
- Squealing, grinding, or scraping sounds during braking
- Longer stopping distances than usual
- The brake warning light going off on the dashboard
Driving with compromised brakes is a safety risk for you and everyone else on the road.
Conclusion
As your car gets older or you spend more time with it, you need to stay vigilant. Catching warning signs early and addressing them promptly can help keep car servicing costs predictable.
You can also prepare for unexpected situations by checking your car insurance policy. Review your policy document to understand the full scope of your cover before you need it.
FAQs
1. What are the most common signs my car needs immediate servicing?
Your car may need immediate servicing if you notice dashboard warning lights or unusual engine noises. Reduced fuel efficiency, fluid leaks, steering wheel vibrations and poor braking performance are also signs that your car needs attention.
2. Is it dangerous to drive when the Check Engine light is on?
It may not necessary dangerous to drive when the Check Engine light is on, but you should always get the cause diagnosed. Some triggers are minor; others, such as catalytic converter failure or engine misfires, can cause further damage if the car continues to be driven.
3. What noises indicate urgent car servicing?
Noises such as grinding or squealing brakes, knocking from the engine, rattling underneath the car or grinding during gear changes can all indicate a problem and warrant immediate attention.
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