It’s always a good idea to make sure that you get your car’s basic maintenance done on time. While there is some kind of maintenance you’ll get on a schedule, there are others that will require some judgment on your part. Below are signs about which you should be aware to determine when it’s time to take your car in for maintenance.
Strange Sounds
It’s always a good idea to pay attention to the sounds that your vehicle makes. One of the most important signs that your car needs maintenance is the presence of a new, maintained sound. A quick pop or a squealing sound might be an unrelated issue, but a continuous grinding or buzzing sound could be a cause for alarm. Though there are many noises that are just part and parcel of a car’s operation, anything that seems novel should be a cause for concern. If your car’s making a new noise, you need to look into car repair services.
Unusual Responses
You know how your car drives. If there’s any kind of change in how your car feels on the road, there’s a good chance that your car needs maintenance. From a sudden lack of acceleration to a lack of responsiveness, you can often tell that something’s gone wrong with your vehicle long before you take it into the shop. Whether your car is stalling out or you’re having trouble getting it in gear, any change in the way your car drives needs to be taken seriously.
Dashboard Lights
Finally, you’ll want to pay attention to your dashboard lights to get a heads-up as to when a problem might occur. Your check engine light can be a sign that one of hundreds of problems is occurring, while the other lights on the dash are all more narrowly tailored to warn you of specific problems. While many people drive with their check engine lights on, it’s generally better to get your car checked out as soon as you’ve noticed that the light has been activated.
Don’t be afraid to get your car checked out on a hunch. If you notice a new noise, a strange response, or even a check engine light, going to a good shop is the best way to get your peace of mind back. While not every symptom is a sign of a major problem, it’s always better to be safe than to be sorry when you are on the road.