5 Car Repairs That Can’t Wait

Feb 29, 2016

Toyota Corolla

Over the life of your vehicle, it’s likely to need a number of major fixes and minor tuneups. While some of these repairs can wait for your next routine maintenance appointment, it’s critical to handle others immediately. Discover five car repairs that can’t wait, and get to know the signs that indicate your car needs these fixes now.

Oil Change

Oil Changes

Your vehicle’s engine relies on oil to lubricate its moving parts and to ensure that it runs smoothly for as long as possible. As you drive your car, however, the oil accumulates dirt and debris and becomes less effective. Most vehicles need an oil change every few months, or about every 3,000 to 7,000 miles. If you wait longer than the recommended mileage or time period, you risk doing irreparable damage to your car.

Brakes

Brake Tests

Like oil, brakes lose effectiveness over time and require replacement periodically. While most car experts recommend getting new brake pads about every 25,000 miles or so, a few easily recognizable signs can indicate that you need new brakes sooner than planned. If you hear a high-pitched sound or a grinding noise while braking, make an appointment at your service center immediately. If your car has trouble stopping, it’s also necessary to replace the brake pads right away.

Tires

Tire Replacement

Having the right kind of tires inflated to the correct pressure can do wonders for your car’s handling, performance, and even gas mileage. Check the pressure in each tire at least once a month, and refer to your owner’s manual to confirm whether the reading meets the manufacturer’s specifications.

Since even perfectly pressured tires can wear unevenly depending on where they’re located, have your tires rotated every 6,000 to 8,000 miles or every other oil change. Tires have limited lifespans, so don’t forget to replace them as often as the manufacturer recommends. If you let them go for too long, you can end up with bald tires that contribute to dangerous driving situations.

Windshield Repairs

A small chip or crack can quickly expand and take over your entire windshield. Not only can a cracked windshield make it difficult for the driver to see, but it can also create a serious safety issue. Many auto body shops can repair small dings and cracks up to a certain size, so acting fast is important.

If the crack is too large or the damage compromises the structure, you’ll need to replace the windshield altogether. For this repair, take your vehicle to a qualified auto body shop so you can be confident that you’ll end up with a professionally installed windshield that will keep you safe.

Engine Warning Light

Engine Diagnostics

Your vehicle’s dashboard features a variety of lights and warnings, some of which are critical. If you see the check engine light, call your trusted mechanic because the engine needs attention immediately. In many cases, continuing to drive your car for more than a few miles can mean anything from generating unsafe emissions to overheating the engine.

Some car repairs can work with your schedule, but these maintenance issues can’t wait. When you see any of these warning signs, be sure to take your vehicle to your local service center right away.