Wajeez Articles: 4 Tips for Diagnosing Car Problems
The car repair experts at AutoMD.com shared 4 common sense tips to help car owners describe, locate, and diagnose any possible (rather random) car problems. While the advice of a professional car mechanic is always advisable for a complete diagnosis, these simple tips can provide car owners with early insight into vehicle problems and help them better articulate symptoms at the repair shop, which could help the mechanic diagnose the problem correctly.
1. Feel it to fix it:
How does your car feel when you drive it? Does it hesitate, pull to one side or vibrate? If your car starts and you’re able to drive it, pay close attention to how it feels on the road. Look out for warning signs such as:
- If your car drifts or gradually moves to one side
- If there is a lack of response when you step on the gas pedal
- If there is a vibration when you apply the brakes
2. Listen closely:
How does your car sound when it’s idling or while you drive it? Does it rattle, knock or squeal? Is there a hissing noise similar to air escaping from a hose? Be sure to listen closely to any potential audible symptoms your car is exhibiting, including warning signs such as:
- A continuous high pitched squeal
- A hiss like the sound of air escaping
- A heavy repeating knock like knocking on a door
3. Have a look:
Next, pay close attention to anything you see while your engine is idling or while you’re driving. Do you notice oil underneath your car while it’s parked? Is there a warning light illuminated on your dashboard? Do you see signs of smoke from under the hood? Potential car problems might be accompanied by:
- A puddle or fluid leak under the car or in and around the engine
- Smoke coming out of the engine or exhaust pipe
- A flat tire (take a quick look at all 4 tires before you get in your vehicle to drive away)
4. Sniff out the problem:
Certain car problems are accompanied by a smell, that’s why it’s important to let your nose guide you in determining what might be wrong with your vehicle, either from inside or outside your vehicle while the engine is running. Pay attention to the following smells and their location, including:
- The smell of gasoline
- An odor similar to rotten eggs
- A mildew smell
AutoMD.com offers a free downloadable app for Apple iPhones, where users can post questions about a car problem – along with accompanying photos right from their iPhones – and get feedback from professional mechanics, vehicle enthusiasts and other members of the AutoMD.com DIY community.
