Five Minor Car Problems You Should Never Ignore

Keeping a car in good condition requires constant updates and care on your part. While it’s obvious when you need some major repairs, there are some minor problems that are just as important to take care of quickly so it they don’t get worse.

Worn-out Windshield Wiper Blades

Wiper blades are irritating when they begin to wear out. However, when you are stuck in a rain storm, the problem quickly turns into a serious hazard on the road. Remember that blades don’t only wear out from extended use. Long hours baking in the sun, or turning them on when snow and ice is built up on them can do just as much damage. Check your blades if you haven’t used them in a while or if bad weather is in the forecast.  It doesn’t hurt to carry a replacement set in the car for emergencies.

Low Fluid Levels

One of the best maintenance chores you can do for your car is check the oil regularly. When the oil level gets too low, the moving parts of the engine suffer increased friction and wear. If you lose all the oil, your engine will seize up and and you’ll have to replace it. Even though you may have a date or mileage to give you an idea of when it needs changed, make sure you check it every once in a while and before long trips. If you find that your oil level is dropping rapidly no matter how often you fill it, take it in to a mechanic to find the leak or any other problem that could damage your car.

Lights

Nothing is more unnerving than approaching a car from behind and suddenly realizing it isn’t moving because the break lights weren’t working. Because you never see your break lights when you drive, it’s likely you don’t think about them often. Check for broken headlights and tail lights and replace them immediately. Your ability to see in the dark, and your visibility to others, is crucial to your safety. It could also cost you a fine if a cop sees that your lights aren’t working properly.

Worn Tires

Never drive around on worn tires. As the tire’s tread wears down, a blowout becomes more likely. This is a hazard that becomes much worse in the rain or on slick, icy roads. Uneven wear on tires indicates a misalignment or other structural problem. Make sure that is taken care of before getting new tires, and keep a good set on your car, especially during the months of bad weather.

Chipped or Cracked Windshield

A chip or small break in the windshield might pass inspection, but sooner or later it’s going to give you trouble. Once a crack develops, you’ll have to replace the whole windshield, says professionals at Auto Glass in Los Angeles. By fixing the chip, you will maintain the factory seal around the glass.

Take these maintenance chores seriously and don’t let minor car problems create more expensive repairs for you in the future. These tips will help you stay safe on the road and save money on repairs.