Ever been in a situation where your car decides to take an unexpected break in the middle of nowhere? It’s an experience most of us would rather not have. Here are 7 common reasons why cars break down and how to prevent it happen.
1. Worn-Out Tyres
Tyres, the unsung heroes of our vehicles, often bear the brunt of our daily commutes. They’re constantly in contact with rough surfaces, exposed to extreme temperatures, and subjected to the weight of the vehicle.
Over time, this can lead to wear and tear, causing your tyres to lose their grip or even burst.
Regular tyre checks for tread depth, pressure, and damage can help you avoid the dreaded tyre blowout and keep your car running smoothly.
2. Battery Troubles
The heart of your car’s electrical system, the battery, can often be the root of many breakdowns. Whether it’s due to extreme weather conditions, age, or simply leaving your lights on overnight, a drained or faulty battery can leave you stranded.
Regular battery checks and replacements, as well as ensuring all lights and electronics are off when the car isn’t in use, can help keep your battery healthy and your car on the road.
3. Engine Overheating
Your engine is like a marathon runner – it needs to stay cool to perform at its best. But when the cooling system fails, your engine can overheat, leading to a breakdown.
Regular coolant checks and radiator maintenance can prevent overheating and keep your engine running at the optimal temperature.
4. Brake Problems
Imagine driving down a steep hill and realizing your brakes aren’t responding. Terrifying, right? Brake troubles, often due to worn-out brake pads or low brake fluid, can lead to dangerous situations and potential breakdowns.
Regular brake checks and maintenance can ensure your brakes are always ready to respond when you need them most.
5. Transmission Troubles
The transmission, the brain of your car, controls the power output from the engine to the wheels. But when it fails, your car can become unresponsive or even stall.
Regular transmission fluid checks and changes, as well as paying attention to any unusual noises or jerks while driving, can help prevent transmission problems and keep your car running smoothly.
6. Faulty Spark Plugs
Spark plugs, though small, play a crucial role in your car’s performance. They ignite the fuel in your engine, but when they’re faulty, they can cause your car to run inefficiently or not start at all.
Regular spark plug checks and replacements can ensure your engine fires up every time you turn the key.
7. Misfuelling
It may sound silly, but misfuelling – putting the wrong type of fuel in your car – is a common cause of breakdowns. Always double-check the pump before you fill up, and if you do make a mistake, don’t start your car. Call a professional to drain and clean your fuel system to prevent any damage.
Conclusion
While car breakdowns can be frustrating and inconvenient, understanding the common causes can help you prevent them. Regular maintenance and checks, as well as paying attention to any changes in your car’s performance, can keep your car running smoothly and keep you on the road.
