Spotting problems with your car

As well as dashboard warning indicators telling you something is wrong, your car may also develop an unusual noise, a smell, or perhaps a grating feeling when you change gear or press a pedal. By knowing what these signs are, you'll respond early before any more damage is done. Plus you'll have a better idea whether it's something you can fix yourself, or whether you need to go straight to a garage.

Here is a list of the most common things to look out for:

Engine leaks
Spotting engine leaks can save you problems later on. Leaks can come from various tanks in your engine, and if you spot a puddle under the car, you’re on your way to addressing the problem. Check whether it's oil, petrol or one of the other car fluids such as anti-freeze. Once you have identified the probable cause of the leak, check the dipsticks to see if any fluid levels are notably low. If you have an engine leak, especially a petrol leak, it's advisable to get help from a reputable mechanic.

Smells and noises
Many car problems are detectable in advance. Unfamiliar odours in the car can hint at imminent problems. Smells to be aware of may include burning, the smell of gas and acrid odours. They may be indicating: an antifreeze leak, burning oil, a worn clutch or worn bake pads.
 
Check on these immediately. Unusual noises too are a sign that something could be wrong. For example, sudden brake failures rarely occur, without the brakes giving some sort of notice. They may, for example, begin to squeal or you may hear a grinding or grating sound.

Tired tyres
Well maintained tyres will help you to drive safely. If your car doesn't feel solid when cornering, or pulls to one side when braking sharply, then you could be low on air or tread. Ultimately poor tyres could cause an accident.

The law requires you to have at least 1.6mm of tread on each tyre, and to use only radial or cross ply tyres. Over or under-inflated tyres; or tyres with cuts, lumps, bulges or tears are also prohibited.

So, first of all, don’t wait until you feel as though your car has sunken right down; check your tyre pressure, and also the tread depth. Also be aware of whether the tyres feel imbalanced – because you may have a puncture.

It is always advisable to operate a policy of regular maintenance and keep up-to-date with your annual services and the distance-specific services that the manufacturer recommends.

Visit Privilege.com for all your car insurance and breakdown cover needs.

Sources
www.thinkroadsafety.gov.uk

http://autorepair.about.com/od/otherodddiyjobs/a/findleaks.htm

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