When out driving, the last thing you want is for your car to break down. While some car troubles end up requiring professional help, you can fix a few common issues yourself at the roadside to get back up and running.
Check the Basics First
Before assuming it’s a complex issue, check for basic problems first. Are your gas levels low? Simply refueling could address stalling issues if you have run too low. Also ensure tires are properly inflated, oil levels are ok, and other fluids like windshield wiper and transmission are not too low.
Battery Issues
A dead battery that won’t turn the engine over is one of the most frequent problems faced. Using a battery jump box, as recommended by the experts at Clore Automotive, can supply the charge needed to start up so you can drive to a service station for more investigation. Without one, you will need a jumpstart from another vehicle with jumper cables. Ensuring your battery connectors are clear of corrosion and terminal connections are tight helps maximize charging efficiency.
Overheating Headaches
Today’s liquid-cooled engines can overheat for several reasons. Low engine coolant/antifreeze, a stuck thermostat, busted water pump impeller, or leaks in the cooling system hoses/tubing can prevent proper heat dissipation. Check temperature gauges for an early warning. Pullover and idle the engine immediately if it overheats. Lifting the hood to let the engine cool down helps prevent severe damage. Topping up coolant may relieve things temporarily.
When Lights Don’t Illuminate
Electrical gremlins can rear their head with gauges, warning lights, or turn signals suddenly malfunctioning. The first items to check are any related fuses to see if they’ve blown. Your owner’s manual shows fuse box locations, and which one controls what. Having spare fuses and a fuse puller in your glove box lets you swap out bad ones roadside. Faulty bulbs can also be an issue for lights, so carry spares.
Noises Under the Hood
Unusual engine noises like squealing or grinding need quick attention to diagnose. Open the hood with the engine idling to detect where undercarriage noises emanate from. Belt or pulley issues may just need replacement/tightening. Bearing or transmission problems mean getting off the road promptly before catastrophic failures happen if noises continue.
Why Won’t It Shift Gears?
Transmission troubles range from leaks, low fluid levels, worn gears, or electronic sensor glitches. Check under your car for transmission fluid puddles signaling a leak. Top up fluid if only low. Adjust driving by using remaining functional gears and disengaging overdrive to limp along carefully until repairs. If it won’t shift at all, or shifts grind severely, further driving risks damaging expensive components.
When the Brakes Fail
A brake system failure can stem from issues like worn brake pads/rotors, a ruptured hydraulic line, leaks at the master cylinder or calipers, or problems with the power brake booster. Start troubleshooting by checking brake fluid reservoir levels under the hood. Top it up if simply low. Next, check all brake lines and components for noticeable leaks needing repair. Test brakes gently in a safe area to identify which part of the system is struggling and causing loss of function so it can be addressed before continuing on.
Conclusion
While running into car troubles while on the road is never ideal, being prepared and knowing some basic troubleshooting steps can help get you safely back on your way, at least temporarily. A little know-how combined with proper preparation can give you the tools to handle many common roadside car problems and improve your chances of completing your journey.
