Top 10 common car faults

Top 10 common car faults, along with the associated symptoms and how to diagnose them:

1. **Brake Problems**:
– **Symptoms**: Squealing or grinding noises when braking, car pulling to one side, vibration in the steering wheel.
– **Diagnosis**: Check brake pads for wear. If they’re thin, replace them. Ensure brake fluid is at the correct level. Check the brake Disc surfaces for uneven wear or grooves.

2. **Battery Issues**:
– **Symptoms**: Difficulty starting the car, dimming lights, electrical components not working.
– **Diagnosis**: Check battery terminals for corrosion. Use a multimeter to check the battery voltage. A fully charged battery should read around 12.6V.

3. **Failed Starter Motor**:
– **Symptoms**: A clicking sound when trying to start the car, engine not turning over.
– **Diagnosis**: Check the battery first. If the battery is good, the starter motor or solenoid might be the problem.

4. **Tyre Issues (including punctures)**:
– **Symptoms**: Vehicle pulling to one side, vibration while driving, a flat tyre, or reduced fuel efficiency.
– **Diagnosis**: Regularly inspect tyres for wear, punctures, or deformities. Check tyre pressure and ensure they are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended levels.

5. **Overheating Engine**:
– **Symptoms**: Temperature gauge reading high, steam from under the bonnet, sweet smell.
– **Diagnosis**: Check coolant levels. Inspect for coolant leaks. Ensure the radiator fan operates correctly.

6. **Transmission / Gearbox Issues**:
– **Symptoms**: Grinding or shaking during gear changes, unresponsive gear shifting, unusual noises when in neutral.
– **Diagnosis**: Check transmission fluid levels and condition. If the fluid is dark or smells burnt, it may need a change.

7. **Exhaust Problems**:
– **Symptoms**: Increased engine noise, decreased power, a rotten egg smell.
– **Diagnosis**: Inspect the exhaust pipe for holes or rust. Check for a damaged muffler or catalytic converter.

8. **Oil Leaks**:
– **Symptoms**: Dark puddles under the car, burnt oil smell, smoke from the engine bay.
– **Diagnosis**: Check oil levels regularly. Inspect the underside of the engine for seepage or drips.

9. **Faulty Ignition Coil or Spark Plugs**:
– **Symptoms**: Misfiring, loss of power, reduced fuel efficiency, engine not starting.
– **Diagnosis**: Use an OBD-II scanner to identify any misfire codes. Check the condition of the spark plugs. Inspect ignition coils for damage.

10. **Fuel System Issues**:
– **Symptoms**: Loss of power, engine sputtering at high speeds, decreased fuel efficiency.
– **Diagnosis**: Replace the fuel filter if clogged. Use a fuel system cleaner to remove any deposits. Check the fuel pump and injectors for proper operation.

Please note this is a very general guide and we cannot guarantee that the symptoms and diagnosis above will always be correct. For an exact diagnosis on any of these issues, it is always best to seek the advice of your local trusted car repair garage.

If you are experiencing any of the above issues, or are unsure of the cause – give us a call on 01543 276060 and we will be happy to advise on the best cause of action to solve the problem.