Showing your car some quality care would make for a great new year’s resolution. Unlike most other resolutions, this one can be easy to keep by staying on top of routine maintenance procedures and small repairs. Doing so will mean a smoother and safer ride for you and your passengers this year. Read on to learn more about common car repairs to consider as we enter the new decade.
Common Car Repairs
The first thing to consider when servicing your car is whether there are any major issues to address first. Excessive smoke from the tailpipe or irregular sounds, for example, may point to more serious problems. If your engine dies or your transmission breaks down, you’re going to spend a lot of money on repairs. Fortunately, routine maintenance, tune-ups and minor repairs can keep major problems like these at bay. If there are no major issues, we recommend the following:
- Change your oil.
The oil in your car works to simultaneously lubricate your engine while also drawing heat away from it. As the oil circulates through the engine, it picks up dirt and debris over time. Dirty oil will cause your engine to overheat, and the engine’s components will warp and wear out. A lack of lubrication will also cause wear to an engine’s components as they grind against each other. If left unchecked, your engine will completely shut down. Changing your oil is one of those common car repairs that goes a long way. - Transmission repairs.
Low fluid levels can cause your car to shift improperly. If left unchecked, your transmission may break down. To avoid this, keep your fluid levels topped off. At the same time, you can also check for and repair leaks and change your filter to keep your car running smoothly. - Replace your spark plugs.
Spark plugs use electricity to start your engine. This means that without them, you wouldn’t be able to start your car. Like most things, spark plugs are susceptible to wear and tear. At the same time, dirt and oil deposits and overheating can also take a toll. Faulty spark plugs can drastically lower your fuel efficiency, cause your engine to misfire, or hinder your acceleration. - Change your brake pads.
Over time, brake pads wear down. Once they’ve worn extremely thin, the caliper will rub against the rotor. You’ll hear a metal-on-metal screeching sound that may not go away even after you release the brake pedal. If left unaddressed, the rotor may become damaged and cause the steering wheel to vibrate. Further, the caliper may seize up and become difficult to loosen later. To avoid this, monitor your brake pads and switch them out when they become thin.
Do You Need German Automotive Repair Services in Sacramento?
Silver Star Motors offers a range of services, from routine maintenance to more serious repairs. To have your car serviced, give us a call at (916) 269-1522 or send us a message online.
