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Without regular automotive care, a few minor issues can easily escalate to a severe problem. Routine maintenance ensures issues are diagnosed early on, saving you time and money. But between visits, it’s helpful to know the tell-tale signs of trouble, so you can get your vehicle to the mechanic and avoid a breakdown.  

5 Reasons Your Car Needs Automotive Care

1. Unusual Lingering Smell

Strange odors are likely indicators of a car malfunction. As a general rule, any smell out of the ordinary warrants automotive care, but here are a few of the usual suspects:

  • Burnt oil: Check the engine for an oil leak.  
  • Burnt wood: Typically caused by a broken clutch,
  • Rotten egg: Results from an overcharged battery.
  • Maple syrup: Likely a coolant leak. 
  • General pungent smell: Arises from the tailpipe. 

2. Hearing Strange Sounds

Unusual noises are another way of telling whether there’s something wrong with your vehicle.

  • Squealing, screeching, or grinding: If you hear any of these when applying the brakes, the brake pads or rotor need to be replaced.
  • Rattling: This noise under the car indicates an issue with your exhaust system.
  • Chirping or squealing: When heard under the hood of the car, the noise means you need a new drive belt.

3. Odd Motions While Driving

Unusual vibrations may be due to several problems including tire alignment issues, overused wheel bearings, or trouble with your brakes. A back-and-forth shimmy in the steering wheel could be caused by imbalanced wheels. Because these are high-risk and difficult to pinpoint, have a mechanic identify the cause immediately. 

4. Flashing Check Engine Light

While a steady, illuautomotive-careminated check engine light might not require immediate action, a blinking light means you need to see a mechanic fast. It usually indicates a severe engine misfire. Without proper action, the catalytic converter could quickly heat up to a point where damage becomes likely, as does expensive repair or replacement.

5. Smoke From Under the Hood

If smoke is coming from under the hood, stop the car right away and pull over to a safe spot. There is a chance your car is overheating, which will lead to serious damage if you continue to drive. As you are waiting for the engine to cool down, call for roadside assistance to have your vehicle inspected.

 

When it comes to automotive care, residents of West Chester, OH, rely on Springdale Automotive for their unparalleled expertise. Knowledgeable in all makes and models of both domestic and import vehicles, the company offers cost-effective repairs and services on everything from alignment to engine and transmission repair to electrical services. Call (513) 860-2760 to schedule an appointment today or visit their website to submit a question or learn about preventative maintenance.

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