Common Car Repair Issues

Cars, like other machines, develop mechanical issues after a while of running smoothly. You need to make constant checks and perform regular maintenance to ensure you catch any issues before they become serious. Fortunately, all vehicles face some common problems that are easy to diagnose.

Brake Replacement and Repair

The brakes in a car consist of three main parts: the caliper, the disc, and the brake pads. The most common problem occurs in the pads that need to be replaced after 35,000 to 40,000 miles. The thing about brakes is that they are overlooked in regular maintenance checks. It’s only after you feel a loss in braking performance that your attention goes towards the pads. If not replaced at the right time, the brake pads can damage the discs, leading to more repair costs.

Brake repairs cost a bit more money since half of the brake has to be disassembled to replace the pads. So expect high labour costs.

Timing Belt Issue

Several belts are moving with the engine’s torque rotation. The most important one is the timing belt that plays a significant role in your car’s performance and fuel efficiency. The timing belt synchronises the rotation of the crankshaft and the camshaft. If this synchronizing motion is disturbed, your vehicle loses power and starts to consume more fuel. If you are visiting the gas station more often, then you might have a timing belt issue.

Timing belts are only made of rubber, which means that they are susceptible to damage. The good news is that you can easily buy a new one without paying too much. The mechanic won’t even charge a lot for such a problem.

Repairing Fuel Injectors

The fuel injectors in a car have the most significant job of all. If the injectors malfunction, your car won’t start. The engine will stall if the vehicle is already running or misfire before coming to a stop. You will need professional help to clean and repair the fuel injectors. The engine’s head has to be opened, which means you can’t perform such a repair at home. It is a bit complicated so booking an appointment with a garage is a better option. You should expect to spend uiet a bit for fuel injector repair.

Windscreen Wiper Issue

Perhaps the most common problem that every car owner will face with their vehicle is related to wipers. Windscreen wipers only become useful when it rains or snows. If you live in a city or country where precipitation is rare, you might not face this issue, but for those who live in a country like the UK, replacing wipers is necessary. If you delay the replacement, you could end up damaging your windscreen, you should avoid any delays with wiper replacement. There are non-rubber wipers available that do not deteriorate like rubber wipers. It is wise to invest in them because the cost difference between the two is minimal.

Carbon Buildup

After a few thousand miles, due to low quality fuel and polluted air, carbon starts to develop inside your engine. This carbon buildup can clog the air intake or suffocate the fuel filter, making it hard for the engine to extract both key elements in the optimal quantity. Such an issue is easy to fix and requires a simple fuel system cleaner/throttle body cleaner. This product is sometimes sold with separate labels, but usually it performs the same job. If you add it in the fuel tank it will clean the entire fuel system and if you spray it into the intake, the internals will be flushed of carbon. Fuel system cleaners are available for under £8. If you spend little money now, you can save yourself from wasting money on potential repairs.

Replacing the Spark Plugs

If the engine head is opened, the fuel injectors and the spark plugs, both are inspected. Spark plugs are usually replaced rather than being repaired. They are cheap, so it’s better to have them replaced. Though the spark plugs are cheap accessing them can be time consuming, so there will be a cost for labour.

Radiator Leaks

The radiator cools down the engine and prevents it from overheating. Without the radiator in perfect working condition, you will end up on the roadside with an overheated car. It’s pretty easy to spot a radiator leak. Before you start your car in the morning, sneak a peek below the engine. If there is water or any other liquid on the ground, then you most probably have a leak in your radiator or the oil pan. It’s better to get it checked before more trouble comes your way.

If you stay vigilant and take regular care of your car, you should be able to keep the cost of maintenance and repair at a minimum. Most people are lazy with car maintenance, which results in higher repair costs down the road.

If you have believe your vehicle is in need of repair or maintanance we can help. Contact Lowton Motor Company on 01925 320468 to get helpful and knowledable advice and a quote for repair or maintenance if necessary. We also offer a cheap MOT and full servicing facilities for your vehicle at very competitive rates, with over 25 years of experience Lowton Motor Company Birchwood can provide the low cost and reliable care your vehicle needs.

Get in touch through our online booking form below to arrange a repair, MOT or service today!