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Safety certificates
Service Plus Auto Care is an approved inspection station for safety certificates (previously called ‘roadworthy certificates') in Victoria Park, Brisbane.
Read more10 Warning Signs Your Car Needs a Mechanic
Cars don't always break down without warning. In many cases, your vehicle will give you clues that something isn't quite right well before a major problem develops.
A strange noise, warning light or change in the way your car drives can be easy to put off, particularly if the vehicle still seems to be getting you from A to B. However, ignoring these symptoms could allow a relatively minor issue to become a more expensive repair – and some problems can affect the safety of your vehicle.
At Service Plus Auto Care in Victoria Point, we provide professional car servicing, inspections, diagnostics and mechanical repairs for most makes and models.
Here are 10 signs that it may be time to have your car checked by a mechanic.
1. A Dashboard Warning Light Has Appeared
Modern vehicles use numerous sensors to monitor the engine and other important systems. If your check engine light, ABS light, oil pressure warning, battery warning or another dashboard light appears, your car may be trying to tell you something.
Some warning lights indicate relatively minor faults, while others can point to problems that require immediate attention.
Don't simply ignore a warning light because the car still seems to drive normally. Having the problem properly diagnosed can help determine what is causing the warning and whether repairs are required.
2. Your Car Is Making a Strange Noise
New noises are one of the most common indications that something has changed. Listen for sounds such as:
- Grinding when braking
- Squealing or screeching
- Knocking from the engine
- Clunking over bumps
- Clicking when turning
- Humming or droning while driving
- Rattling underneath the vehicle
Different noises can have very different causes, including worn brakes, suspension components, wheel bearings, belts, exhaust components and engine problems. The sooner an unusual noise is investigated, the better chance you have of addressing the underlying issue before it causes further damage.
3. Your Steering Wheel Is Shaking or Vibrating
A steering wheel that shakes or vibrates shouldn't be considered a normal part of driving.
If the vibration occurs at particular speeds, there could be an issue involving your wheels, tyres, steering or suspension. If the steering wheel shakes mainly when you apply the brakes, the braking system may need attention.
Because there are several possible causes, a mechanical inspection is the best way to identify the problem.
4. Your Car Pulls to One Side
Does your vehicle constantly want to drift or pull towards one side of the road?
Problems involving tyres, wheel alignment, brakes, steering or suspension components can all affect the way your vehicle tracks. You may also notice uneven tyre wear or that you need to continually correct the steering wheel to keep the vehicle travelling straight.
Steering and suspension problems can affect handling and tyre life, so don't wait until the problem becomes severe before having it checked.
5. You Can Smell Something Unusual
Unusual smells can be another warning that your vehicle requires attention.
A burning smell could indicate overheating components, leaking fluids, electrical problems or clutch and brake issues. A strong fuel smell should also be investigated.
If a smell is persistent, particularly when combined with smoke, warning lights or changes in vehicle performance, arrange an inspection as soon as possible.
6. Your Car Is Becoming Difficult to Start
A car that takes longer than usual to start shouldn't be ignored.
You might notice the engine turning over slowly, clicking when you turn the key or press the start button, or requiring several attempts before starting. A weak or failing battery is one possible cause, but starting problems can also involve the charging system, starter motor, fuel system, ignition system or other electrical components.
Having the vehicle checked can help identify the cause before you're left with a car that won't start at all.
7. You've Noticed a Loss of Power
If your vehicle doesn't accelerate like it used to, struggles going uphill or feels sluggish when you put your foot down, it's worth investigating.
Loss of engine performance can be associated with many different issues, including problems with the fuel or ignition systems, air intake, filters, sensors, exhaust or other engine management components.
Rather than guessing or replacing parts unnecessarily, professional diagnostics can help identify what's actually causing the loss of performance.
8. There Is Fluid Leaking Under Your Car
A small puddle underneath your vehicle might not look particularly concerning, but it shouldn't automatically be dismissed.
Vehicles rely on several different fluids, including:
- Engine oil
- Coolant
- Brake fluid
- Transmission fluid
- Power steering fluid, where applicable
- Air conditioning condensation
Water from the air conditioning system can be completely normal, but other fluid leaks may indicate a problem. If you're unsure what is leaking from your vehicle, have it inspected rather than waiting for the fluid level to become dangerously low.
9. Your Fuel Consumption Has Increased
Are you suddenly visiting the petrol station more often even though your driving habits haven't changed?
Poor fuel economy can sometimes indicate that your vehicle isn't operating as efficiently as it should. Tyre pressure, wheel alignment, filters, sensors, ignition components and engine management issues can potentially contribute to increased fuel consumption.
Regular servicing helps keep important vehicle systems maintained and can also provide an opportunity to identify developing problems.
10. Your Car Is Overheating
An overheating engine is a warning sign that should never be ignored.
You may notice the temperature gauge climbing higher than normal, a temperature warning light appearing or steam coming from underneath the bonnet. Possible causes can include coolant leaks and faults within the vehicle's cooling system.
Continuing to drive an overheating vehicle can potentially cause significant engine damage. If the temperature rises excessively or you see steam, stop somewhere safe and seek professional assistance rather than continuing to drive.
Don't Ignore Changes in the Way Your Car Drives
You know how your car normally feels, sounds and responds. If something suddenly feels different, there's usually a reason. Getting a developing problem inspected early can help you understand what's happening with your vehicle and may prevent a smaller issue from turning into a larger repair.
At Service Plus Auto Care, we provide car servicing and mechanical repairs in Victoria Point for most makes and models. Whether you've noticed an unusual noise, warning light, steering problem, loss of performance or simply feel that your car isn't driving the way it should, our qualified team can inspect your vehicle and advise you on what it needs.
Book your vehicle with Service Plus Auto Care and let our team get to the bottom of the problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my car needs to see a mechanic?
Common warning signs include dashboard warning lights, unusual noises, vibrations, difficulty starting, fluid leaks, overheating, poor acceleration, increased fuel consumption and changes in steering or braking. If your vehicle feels or sounds noticeably different, it's worth having it inspected.
Can I keep driving if my check engine light is on?
It depends on the cause of the warning. A check engine light can be triggered by many different faults. If the light is flashing or the vehicle is running poorly, stop driving when it is safe to do so and seek professional advice. Even if the light is steady and the vehicle appears normal, arranging a diagnostic check is recommended.
Why does my car shake when I drive at higher speeds?
Vibration at higher speeds can potentially involve tyres, wheels, wheel balance, steering or suspension components. Because several issues can produce similar symptoms, the vehicle should be inspected to determine the exact cause.
Why does my steering wheel shake when I brake?
Vibration through the steering wheel during braking can indicate an issue within the braking, steering or suspension systems. A mechanic can inspect the relevant components and determine what is causing the vibration.
Why is my car suddenly using more fuel?
Increased fuel consumption can be influenced by driving conditions and habits, but it can also be associated with tyre pressures, wheel alignment, filters, sensors, ignition components or engine management problems. If your fuel economy has noticeably changed without an obvious reason, mention it at your next service or arrange an inspection.
Is a small oil leak something I need to worry about?
Even a small oil leak should be monitored and investigated. Leaks can become worse over time, and allowing the engine oil level to become too low can cause serious engine damage. A mechanic can identify where the oil is coming from and advise whether repairs are required.
Why does my car make a clunking noise when I go over bumps?
Clunking or knocking over bumps can sometimes be associated with worn or damaged suspension or steering components. An inspection can help identify the source of the noise and determine whether any components require repair or replacement.
How often should I have my car serviced?
Your servicing schedule depends on the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations, the age and condition of your vehicle and how it is driven. Following the recommended service intervals helps maintain your vehicle and gives your mechanic regular opportunities to identify developing problems.
Can regular servicing help prevent expensive repairs?
Regular servicing cannot prevent every mechanical failure, but it can help identify worn components, fluid leaks and other developing issues before they become more serious. Preventative maintenance can often be much more straightforward than dealing with a breakdown or major mechanical failure.
Where can I get my car checked in Victoria Point?
Service Plus Auto Care provides car servicing, inspections and mechanical repairs in Victoria Point. If you've noticed a warning light, strange noise, vibration or another change in your vehicle, contact our team to arrange an inspection.
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