# A Guide To Common Car Problems We all know that cars are complicated contraptions with many moving parts, advanced systems, and components. However, even though modern vehicles have come a long way in their dependability and build quality, cars still break down and require thorough maintenance to function correctly. Knowing a thing or two about the most common types of car problems is very helpful, as it not only allows you to be able to notice vehicle issues early, but also enables you to see which ones require immediate attention before they cause even more damage. In the long run, this knowledge can help you increase your vehicle's longevity and keep your [car maintenance schedule](https://www.westminstermotors.ca/knowledge-center/car-maintenance-schedule) and repair costs down, and can also help you answer the age-old question: what is wrong with my car? In this article, we will go over common car problems, along with their explanations - after all, knowing how to diagnose your car is always a great skill to have. ![car-problems](https://hackmd.io/_uploads/S1ePan5_a.jpg) ## Engine Car Problems The engine is the heart of any vehicle. It comprises of many moving parts, including pressurized pumps (oil, water, and fuel), cooling, exhaust and intake, and fuel injection systems. This means that there are many types of engine problems that can happen. However, since modern engines are dependable, terminal faults rarely occur, but there are still a few mechanical issues you must be aware of. ### Engine Overheating When you notice that your car engine temperature is above its average level, or if your car starts signalling the light on your dashboard, your cooling system is in trouble, or your radiator is leaking or clogged. It is essential to turn off your car as soon as you notice this, as driving with an overheated engine will kill it very soon, and is one of the worst types of car trouble. ### Low Oil Pressure Your oil is essential for your internal combustion engine, as it lubricates practically every moving part. When your oil pressure light comes on, there is not enough sufficient oil pressure in the engine, or there is a lack of oil in the sump. A lack of oil will cause immediate wear and overheating. ### Stalling Engine If you notice that your engine has a rough idle, lacks power, or is stalling, this means that there are problems with its combustion cycle. The most common car issues with stalling are connected to a lack of fuel, clogged air or fuel filter, or damaged or worn spark plugs. This is not fatal to the engine, but you should still take your car to a mechanic immediately. Sometimes, the problem is a faulty MAF sensor. This is easy to address if you trick the mass air flow sensor: just turn the engine off, disconnect it from the intake system, and then start the engine and see if the MAF sensor is the reason for rough idle and stalling. ### Power Loss If your engine suddenly experiences power loss, this could be due to a failing head gasket. Visit our link for information on [Land Rover head gasket replacement](https://www.westminstermotors.ca/knowledge-center/blown-head-gasket-replacement-land-rovers-toronto). ## Mechanical Car Issues Besides its engine, the average vehicle consists of several vital components and systems that can cause mechanical problems. Suspension, brakes, wheels, and auxiliary system issues are all reasons for the most common car problems. You can be your own car diagnostic if you follow these automobile troubleshooting tips and avoid car trouble when the vehicle is unattended. ### Worn Out or Bent Discs Strange and unpleasant vibrations and screeching sounds can be symptoms of worn-out discs or brake pads. If you notice that the steering wheel is vibrating when you press the brake pedal, it is clear that the front discs are crocked and need to be replaced. You should do this ASAP. ### Suspension Problems If you notice that your car doesn't track straight and hear thumping noises when you go over a speed bump, your suspension components or bushings are on their way out. Sometimes, after you hit a large pothole, you might notice vibrations coming from the wheels. This could mean your suspension components or wheels are bent from the impact. Driving in this state is unsafe, and you must visit a mechanic. ### Starter Motors Most of us have had the unpleasant experience of turning a key or pressing a starter button without any response. Failing to start is one of the most common car breakdowns, and it is usually the starter's fault - the starter is an electric motor that is used to crank the engine. Over time, it can get worn out and stop working. When something like this happens, your only solution is to call a tow truck. ### Wheel Bearings Your wheel bearings are an integral part of your suspension system. If you hear a humming noise from one of your wheels, this is a sign that your wheel bearing is on its way out. However, this is one of the rare types of vehicle issues that don't need to be changed immediately, and you can still cover more than a few miles with a worn-out wheel bearing. However, this can still affect your fuel economy and cause extensive damage if failing when driving. ## Electrical Car System Faults Electric systems and electronic components are significant parts of modern vehicles. This means that electricity plays an integral part in the functioning of current models, and that wiring, modules, and relays are far beyond the comprehension of the average motorist. However, you don't have to be an electrical engineer to know what happened to your car in case of the following vehicle issues. ### Failed Car Battery A simple failed car battery is one of the biggest issues to an electrical system. Its symptoms are slow and unsuccessful cranking but failing to start, dimmed headlights, and a blinking dashboard. These are clear signs that your battery needs replacement. It also indicates that your alternator failed to do its duty and recharge your battery while driving. ### Alternator Fault If you have a new battery in your car but it is still empty in the morning and you have trouble starting the vehicle, this means that your alternator is gone. The alternator is an electric device that turns engine revs into electricity, charging your battery while you drive. When the first symptoms show (difficult starting), you need to replace it, since it will only worsen as time passes. ### Dashboard Warning Lights Some drivers tend to ignore their dashboard warning lights, but this is a big mistake: those signs are there for a reason, and you must pay attention if you see something flashing. Some signs, like a low washer fluid light, are not critical, but you must act fast if you see a check engine light, low oil light, or overheating symbol. Car diagnostics will tell you why, and [Land Rover diagnostics](https://www.westminstermotors.ca/brands/land-rover-repair) are a beneficial tool for owners of an SUV. ### Advice On Electrical System Maintenance Due to the importance of electric components, every driver needs to know how to keep their car in top working order. The first rule is not to neglect any electrical issue and act in a timely manner. The second rule is to use original components (bulbs, relays, connectors) and quality items designed for use in specific models. The third piece of advice is to keep track of your battery life and understand that driving in the winter will shorten its lifespan. ## Transmission and Drivetrain Concerns The gearbox is essential for any vehicle, as it transmits power to the driving wheels over the drivetrain. However, both systems can develop specific problems that must be addressed immediately in order to prevent further damage or lack of drivability. ### Transmission Slipping Slipping occurs when the gearbox (primarily automatic) slips out of its appropriate gear during your drive or fails to engage in its proper gear, reducing performance drivability and sometimes putting you in danger. This means that your clutch packs are done, the transmission fluid level is very low, or the solenoid controlling the process needs to be replaced. It is not safe to drive with this type of car problem. Fortunately, this issue is common on compact SUVs, and our facility offers [Range Rover Evoque repairs](https://www.westminstermotors.ca/knowledge-center/common-problems-with-the-range-rover-evoque). ### Clutch Problems The clutch plate in vehicles equipped with manual transmission gets worn out over time. When the clutch is near its end, the pedal will become increasingly hard to press, which is your first warning. The second is the clutch slipping, which happens when no friction is left and you press the accelerator pedal with the vehicle in the appropriate gear - still, there is no sufficient acceleration, and the engine fails to transmit power to the wheels. ### Transmission Overheating Automatic transmissions are filled with fluid that is a lubricant and a coolant. It is essential to always keep the ATF (automatic transmission fluid) on an appropriate level. If you don't, the gearbox will overheat, break, and make grinding noises. If this happens, you must stop driving immediately to prevent further damage. This is one of the more serious car problems. ### All-Wheel Drive Problems SUVs with all-wheel-drive systems can experience car defects in the drivetrain department. What makes a car undriveable are broken drivetrain components that cause severe vibrations and rattle. If you notice any of these signs, primarily when engaged in all-wheel-drive mode, go straight to your mechanic. ## Tire and Alignment Issues ### Tire Wear Wear on your tires reduces their ability to grip, prolongs their braking distance, and compromises their road-holding ability. That’s why it’s essential to always have a set of appropriate tires on your car, especially if you drive in challenging conditions. If the thread of your tires is less than 3-4 mm deep, they must be replaced, and are no longer safe for road use. ### Alignment Problems For your car to track straight and have ideal steering and braking capabilities, the wheels must be aligned by the tire shop. This alignment ensures that all your wheels are set up straight and according to the manufacturer's specifications. However, if you see that the camber is off or that the wheels are toe-in or toe-out, drive slowly directly to a tire specialist, as improper alignment can result in poor driving dynamics and cause extensive tire and wheel bearing wear. ### Advice On Tire Maintenance Your tires are the only things that connect your car to the tarmac, so you must pay special attention to them. Do not match different types of rubber, since this will affect the car's dynamics - instead, always use a winter/summer set, as it will provide you with the best road-holding abilities and help you be sure you bought the best tire you can afford. This tiny difference in specs can mean a lot when you need to break in an emergency: it can save your life. ## Fluid Leaks And Cooling System Beyond just fuel, the average vehicle has a few more types of different fluids in it: including coolants, oil, and transmission and steering fluids. All of these can leak, which can cause major issues. Here’s what you need to know. ### Cooling System Leaks Your cooling system leaks when you notice a green or red puddle underneath your car. Our advice: don’t even try to start the vehicle if it lacks coolant, as it can overheat quickly and ruin the engine. Coolant system leaks are common and often result in punctured radiators, hoses or seals. ### Fluid Leaks Finding a puddle of fluid on your garage floor is never good, but it is essential to know what you are looking at. If the fluid is greasy and yellowish in colour, it could be power steering or transmission fluid. If it is dark and dense, it is engine oil. If it is clear and smells of gasoline, you guessed it: it’s gasoline. Whatever fluid you are leaking, be aware that the car is unsafe to drive, as if you drive it, you risk running out of fluids and causing significant damage. ### Maintain Your Fluid Levels Keeping your oil, coolant, and power steering fluid at ideal levels is straightforward, and a type of maintenance everybody can do. It is also a great way to track your consumption, and see if any fluids are under their desired level. This is also a fantastic way to prevent significant leaks. ### Conclusion At the end of the day, being able to perform essential diagnoses of car problems is immensely helpful: not only do you know what has happened or whether or not you should be worried, but you will also be able to help your mechanic by pointing out the issue and saving time and resources. We at Westminster Motors are always happy when our customers are knowledgeable and understand fundamental car issues. On our end, besides regular maintenance concerns for Jaguar, Bentley and Land Rover models, we can also help you with common [Range Rover Evoque problems](https://www.westminstermotors.ca/knowledge-center/common-problems-with-the-range-rover-evoque), as well as with [most common Bentley problems](https://www.westminstermotors.ca/knowledge-center/the-most-common-bentley-repair-problems). Of course, we can also sort out any Land Rover issue, especially [Land Rover suspension problems](https://www.westminstermotors.ca/knowledge-center/complete-guide-to-land-rover-suspension-problems). Reach out to our team at Westminster Motors today with any questions you may have - we are here for you.