January 2020
It happens when you least expect it. Suddenly your car stops by the side of the road or in your driveway. Can you repair it yourself or should you call your local mechanic? While most serious car problems will require you to bring your car to a professional, there are some fixes you’ll be able to roll up your sleeves and do yourself.
To help you understand what car issues you might be able to tackle yourself and which ones to leave to the pros, here is a list of DIY car fixes and car problems you should probably let your mechanic handle.
Dead Battery
That frustrating noise of your car refusing to start can delay your day and cause some headache. However, before assuming the worst, it’s possible that it’s just a dead battery from leaving a light on and your battery just needs a jump-start.1 It’s a good idea to always have a starter pack with you so that you can jump your car in this scenario. Before starting, make sure that you read a guide on how to properly jumpstart your car. As with any car repairs, you’ll want to make sure your safety is a priority.
Read our Guide on How to Jumpstart Your Car Battery
Flat Tire
A flat tire is one of the most common causes to be stuck on the road. You should always do routine checks of your tires to make sure they have enough air. Checking your tires’ air frequently is a great preventative measure for a potential flat, however, no amount of preparing can protect your tire from a pothole or stray nail on the road. If you do end up having a flat tire, knowing how to safely change it and having the right materials can save you a major headache. Your vehicle should come with the following materials to help you handle a flat tire:
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Jack
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Lug wrench
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Fully inflated spare tire
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Vehicle owner’s manual
Be sure to check your vehicle for these items so that you can be confident the next time you have to handle a flat. While the listed items above are essential, it’s also a good idea to pack a flashlight, wheel wedges, and gloves to make things a bit easier.2 It’s also important to remember that the typical “donut” spare tire is only temporary and not meant to be a replacement tire. You'll need to take your car in to either fix the issue with your tire or possibly buy a new one.
Check out our 5 Step Guide on How to Change a Flat Tire
Running Low on Oil
Checking your engine oil and keeping it full is an easy and effective way to maintain your car. Engine oil prevents friction and protects the metal parts keeping your engine running smoothly. While you can keep watch of your dashboard light to signal an oil check, it’s a good idea to monitor your engine’s oil by checking it with the dipstick from time to time. Most gas stations will have paper towels by the pump so that you can wipe the dipstick before checking your oil level.3
Keeping your engine oil full is a great way to maintain your engine’s health, but having your oil changed is also necessary for routine car maintenance. Consult your vehicle’s manual for information on how often you should have your oil changed.
Not Sure how Often you Should Get Your Oil Changed? Learn More Here
Car Problems that Require a Professional Mechanic
Overheating
It’s a common car problem, especially in warm weather. There could be a leak in the car’s coolant system, cooling system hoses, or radiator wells. The thermostat could also be stuck, so no coolant is getting to the engine. You could have a faulty water pump, broken fan belt, or even a clogged radiator.4 In fact, it’s a good idea to have your radiator flushed once a year to prevent issues.5
If the temperature light comes on, pull off the road as soon as you safely can. Wait a few minutes, then open the hood to help the engine cool. Stuck in traffic? Turn off your AC. Or turn on the heater full blast to pull heat out of and away from the engine. NEVER remove the radiator cap if the car is running or has been running. You risk very serious injury from scalding water and steam that is under pressure. When you do have an overheating issue, you should call a mechanic and get your car repaired immediately.
Electrical Failure
You turn the key in the ignition, and nothing happens. Often, this is caused by a weak or completely discharged battery. If the headlights or dash lights dim while trying to start, or your car turns over slowly, it may be an indication that the alternator, not just the battery, could be an issue.
Your EMS (Engine Management System) is your car’s “computer.” If the EMS dash light flashes, it will require a trip to the shop.6
The high-tension leads, which carry voltage to the spark plugs, can deteriorate with age or dampen. A damp-repellant spray can stop them from slowing down the flow of voltage to the spark plugs leading to electrical failure.7 Repairing your vehicle’s electrical system is very complex and should only be handled by a mechanic.
Squealing or Grinding Brakes
When your brakes are starting to wear, there are some warning signs to watch out for. Watch for a brake pedal that suddenly feels soft, or that you must push to the floor to stop. Brakes might also pull to one side if the brake hose is bad.
It’s also important to listen to the sounds your brakes are making. Generally, if your brakes are making any kind of noise at all, that’s a cause for concern and you should consult your local mechanic.8 If your brake dashboard light comes on, that can also mean you need a brake repair even if you don’t feel or hear brake issues.
How to Safely Deal with Squealing Brakes
Slipping or Freezing Transmission
A healthy transmission is essential to keeping your car running. Once it’s damaged, it’s almost certainty an issue that you’ll need a professional to handle. While transmission problems are a fix for a mechanic, a way you can maintain your transmission is to check transmission fluid regularly. Listen for loud noises when putting the car in gear, or gears slipping and engine revving when you first start up the car.
What you Should Know About your Car’s Transmission
Suspension and Steering System
Springs, torsion bars, steering links, control arms and ball joints, or shock absorbers, just to mention a few, can wear, or fall victim to accidents or deep potholes. These systems are critical to driving safety. And if they break in transit, you’ll have to call a tow.
Bottom line: If you’re not an experienced home mechanic, it’s best to leave major repairs like these to a pro. When it is time to take your vehicle to the shop or if you need to purchase car parts for your DIY repair, make sure you have your Synchrony Car CareTM credit card. Click below to find an auto shop that accepts Synchrony Car Care:
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