Everyone has experienced that uncomfortable sinking feeling when we know something must be wrong with our vehicle, but we don’t know what it is exactly. Far too often, people will try to ignore these vehicle issues in the futile hope that they’ll simply sort themselves out, but there are plenty of vehicle issues that you can’t afford to ignore for too long. These issues can seriously affect your vehicle’s longevity, and you shouldn’t let them linger for too long.
Check Engine Light
It’s easy to see the check engine light on your dashboard and think it’s a fluke. You can try to ignore it all you want, but that tiny light will worm its way into your brain until you figure out what’s causing it. Usually, the problem won’t actually be that big of a deal. However, trying to ignore the check engine light for too long could see that small issue graduate into an even bigger one that you’ll hate dealing with even more. Don’t wait around and hope it will go off on its own because it could lead to something far worse.
Loud Intrusive Noises
We all have a pretty solid idea of what our vehicles should sound like. If you drive your car fairly frequently, it becomes pretty obvious when a new noise has popped up. Most loud and intrusive noises in your vehicle indicate that something is very out of place or possibly broken. A crucial component like your exhaust manifold might have become damaged and started to rattle or hiss. You only exacerbate the issue if you continue driving with these sounds, so take your vehicle in as soon as possible.
Fluid Leaks
When it comes to vehicle issues you can’t afford to ignore, you should know that any leaking fluid is a good sign that you need to see a mechanic immediately. Even in the best-case scenario, you lose money if you don’t take care of this issue. In the worst-case scenario, you put yourself and anyone who enters your car at risk every second you drive with something leaking. Take some time to check under your vehicle for leaking fluids so that you don’t get caught off-guard.
Unexplained Vibrations
Unexplained vibrations in your seat or steering wheel aren’t just annoying; they’re also quite dangerous to ignore for long periods. As with sound, you know what your vehicle should feel like as you drive it. Too much vibration means that something is currently moving around that shouldn’t be able to move. To avoid loss of vehicle control, tell your mechanic about when you experience these unexplained vibrations.