When it comes to noticing something is wrong with your car, sometimes all you need is your 5 senses. Well, make that 4 because your sense of taste probably shouldn't come into play!
Otherwise, your other 4 senses can tell you a lot. Basically, any time you hear, see, smell or feel anything unusual while you are driving, then it's worth paying closer attention. If the problem persists or gets worse, you should take your vehicle to a professional mechanic for an inspection and diagnosis. Usually if something seems off, there is at least a minor automotive issue to address. In many cases, your senses can detect problems early on, which allows you to get them fixed before they develop into major repairs.
Let's look at a few examples, according to the auto repair specialists at Fox Run Auto:
Seeing is Believing
We depend on our sense of sight more than any other, and there are some automotive problems that you can clearly see with the naked eye. You may notice a fluid leak under the vehicle, or see smoke or steam coming from under the hood. Those are issues you will definitely want to get looked at sooner rather than later. You might see that your tire treads are low or really uneven from wheel to wheel, which may just mean you are due for a tire rotation or wheel alignment.
Can You Hear It?
Your sense of hearing can also tell you a lot about the health and performance of your car. Screeching and squealing while you drive often means the brake pads need to be replaced. Damaged and slipping fan belts can also make distinct noises. Clunks, backfiring "pops" or loud revving can be the result of engine, transmission, fuel system or exhaust system issues.
Something Feels Strange
Sometimes, something just doesn't feel right when you are driving your vehicle. Maybe it's not accelerating like it normally does. That could be a transmission, engine or fuel system issue. Perhaps the steering wheel or one of the foot pedals feels loose. The car might be drifting on turns or pulling hard to one side. These are signs of bad wheel alignment, brake problems, power steering, clutch system and suspension problems.
The Nose Always Knows
Last but not least is your sense of smell. You'll usually smell it pretty badly when you have a potential exhaust leak, which can be very dangerous to your health and do serious damage to your engine if left ignored. Maybe you smell a sweet burning smell. This is usually a sign that one of your automotive fluids (engine oil, transmission fluid, radiator coolant, etc.) is low and needs to be refilled/serviced. Then sometimes you just smell something funky inside the car. This typically means that it's time to replace your cabin air filter and perhaps get a full A/C system cleaning and tune-up service.
These are just a few common examples of unusual sights, sounds, feelings and smells that might indicate you have an automotive issue. At the first sign of anything odd, you can bring your vehicle to Fox Run Auto for a professional inspection, diagnosis and repairs. Call us today at (302) 597-9205 or schedule your service appointment online.