Experiencing a roadside breakdown can be frightening and frustrating. Often, tires, brakes, and additional components exhibit plenty of warning signs a vehicle is about to fail. Knowing how to interpret the clues, outlined here, will leave you better equipped to care for your car and keep it running smoothly.  

3 Signs of an Imminent Car Breakdown

1. Irregular Tire Wear

Every time you check tire pressure, inspect the condition of the tread, too. Steering and suspension components control wheel motion, so when the parts are damaged, it affects how tires grip the road, leading to irregular tread wear. Continuing to drive will put additional strain on the suspension, increasing the risk of a breakdown. 

2. Green or Blue Spots in the Driveway

Chemicals can eat away at your asphalt or concrete driveway, so look for stains on the pavement left by your car. If you see green or blue liquid in areas you typically park, this could indicate coolant is escaping from a ruptured hose, radiator, or coolant reservoir. The liquid mixes with water to keep the engine cool, so without enough coolant circulating through the system, the engine could overheat and die. 

3. Illuminated Dashboard Lights

If you see a dashboard light illuminate, don’t ignore it. Flashing lights indicate there’s something wrong with one of your vehicle’s systems. Although dashboard lights can vary, many cars feature markers that indicate temperature and pressure have exceeded normal limits, the battery needs to be charged, and the engine is malfunctioning. Addressing the issue as soon as possible could prevent a breakdown.

If you’ve experienced any of the above issues or have additional concerns, contact the professionals at Flat On The Spot Mobile Tire Service in Anchorage, AK. The staff will install new tires, provide oil changes, and perform additional maintenance and repair solutions to prevent car problems. To inquire about the technicians’ convenient mobile services, call (907) 242-0086. Visit the mechanics and tire dealers online for service and pricing information and stay in touch on Facebook for announcements.