The major problem in the field of automobile breakdowns is not mechanical. It is human and is called procrastination. It is this unfortunate tendency that we all have more or less to postpone what we know it is in our interest to settle immediately. In the automotive field, it starts with an unusual noise, white smoke from the exhaust, a suspicious smell, less fluid driving, etc. And the bad reflex that takes on the appearance of a little voice in the head: I’ll see that tomorrow, it’s probably going to get better.
Let’s put an end to this harmful belief right away: it’s not going to get better.
Too low oil level
Engine lubricant is a consumable. It wears slightly depending on use. As the vehicle ages, the proportion of oil consumed increases. It’s normal. This is why all combustion engines have an oil dipstick and a filler hole. If this is not taken care of, the oil level in the engine drops, the lubrication of moving parts is less and less good, the temperature rises and, with the expansion of metals, deformations appear. This results in rupture of the cylinder head gasket , deformation of the cylinder head, engine failure. In any case, it is the worst failure on a vehicle .
To avoid this frequent problem , remove the oil level auto breakdowns gauge and wipe it with a cloth every month or so, on a cold engine. Then put it back in place and pull it out again. The oil level will appear on the graduated scale at the end of the dipstick.
Top up the oil level carefully using an oil suitable for your engine to be as close as possible to the max mark” . Warning: do not exceed this mark otherwise your engine will race on the next start and it will break. Then, when you reach the mileage provided by the manufacturer, have an oil change done . Otherwise the oil deteriorates more and more and becomes much less effective.
A lack of coolant
When the engine lacks coolant , heat exchange between the engine block and the radiator no longer takes place. The temperature rises and it is the assured rupture of the cylinder head gasket.
To avoid this common failure, regularly check the level in the expansion tank. If it is missing, top up the level with coolant that complies with your engine.
A battery failure
Batteries don’t really like winter and extreme cold can cause sudden discharges of this equipment . There are two types of battery for cars with combustion engine. Sealed batteries are sealed and require no maintenance. When they are worn out, they must be replaced Plug batteries require maintenance because the electrolyte level can drop with extreme heat or freeze during extreme cold.
In order not to be confronted with this situation, open the caps of the battery compartments from time to time, check that the elements are well submerged. Otherwise, top up the level with distilled water.
Tire wear or puncture
The only part of your car in contact with the road, the tires wear out regularly . It is this wear that dissipates the energy of braking, cornering and acceleration. But there comes a time when this wear and tear becomes dangerous. It can cause loss of vehicle control or a tire blowout. Furthermore, a tire is provided to operate with a certain air pressure. Too much pressure increases wear and too little compromises safety.
Attention, if they are hot, count 0.3 bars more than the manufacturer’s recommendations. Also check the depth of the treads by looking at the margin that remains in relation to the witnesses, these rubber bulges at the bottom of the grooves. If the difference is only 1.6 millimeters, have the tires replaced. In winter, fit your car with winter tyres. Depending on the temperature, braking distance and road holding can be improved by 20%.
Fuel problems
Not to mention the classic gas starvation, carburation can lead to common preventable car breakdowns . Depending on your engine, the type of fuel changes. Be careful not to make a mistake when you fill up, the consequences for your engine could be dramatic. In addition, impurities are often present in gasoline or diesel. They accumulate in the tank and end up clogging the engine.
To avoid these common problems, clean or change your fuel filter, carburetor or injectors regularly. Avoid the abuse of discount fuels that are less pure than others. And don’t take the fuel level alarm lightly. The reserve is intended to reach the nearest service station, not to drive two more days.
A faulty starter
Winter can make starting your vehicle complicated. Your starter contains mechanical parts which may turn less well in extreme cold. And electrical contactors can be less efficient.
To anticipate this type of problem, if you can, put your vehicle in a garage overnight . Do not connect any headlights, heating, defrosting or ventilation and press the clutch pedal before engaging the starter. It will have less trouble turning.