Mechanic in Spotsylvania Courthouse, VA

Car repairs 101

Regular maintenance and a keen eye are the best ways to keep your ride Roadworthy™. However, knowing the signs and symptoms of common vehicle repairs can help you get ahead of expensive issues.

Look for leaks

1. Yellowish-green, pastel blue, or fluorescent orange: Points to an overheating engine or a leaky cooling system.
2. Dark brown or black: Could be an oil leak from a bad seal or gasket.
3. Red: Might mean a transmission or power steering fluid leak.
4. Clear: Likely condensation from your A/C and nothing to stress over.

Listen for trouble

1. Squeal: Could be a loose or worn belt or brake system issue.
2. Click: Probably the hardest to pin down; can mean a stuck valve lifter, low engine oil, brake issues, an axle issue, or something in your tire.
3. Screech: May be a problem with your brake, wheel bearing, or drivetrain.
4. Rumble: Often indicates worn drive-line components.
5. Ping: Usually the result of using lower octane gas than recommended.
6. Heavy Knocking: Might be a worn crankshaft or connecting rod bearings.
7. Clunk: Possibly a loose shock absorber, suspension component, exhaust pipe, or motor mount.

Focus on the ride

1. Trouble steering: Likely misaligned wheels or worn steering components.
2. Pulling in one direction: The tendency to steer left or right could be due to under-inflated tires, a misaligned front end, or failed brake components.
3. Rough ride and handling: Worn shock absorbers, suspension components, or improper tire inflation can affect cornering. A vehicle that bounces twice or more when pushed down hard at each wheel might need new shocks.