You rely on your car to get to work, run errands, and see your friends, so when something goes wrong, you’re frustrated and panicky. While it’s easy to lose your head in this situation, relax for a moment and then take these steps to fix your car.
- Identify the Problem
Until you know what’s wrong with your car, you can’t do anything to fix it. Look for warning lights on your dashboard; red lights indicate emergencies, while yellow ones refer to potential problems. Use your user’s manual to identify any symbols you don’t recognize. For more complicated problems, use a code reader to determine the issue or take your vehicle to your local automotive shop.
- Fix or Replace Broken Parts
Now that you’ve identified the issue, it’s time to start resolving it. On your own or with the help of a repair expert, identify which parts can be fixed and which ones must be replaced. For example, if the wires on your intake air heater plug are broken, you must buy a new one. On the other hand, if the wires are simply bent, you may be able to move them back into place.
- Prevent Future Issues
Not every breakage is preventable. However, you can eliminate most complete breakdowns by monitoring your car carefully and avoiding dangerous behaviors. Listen for unusual noises such as rattling as you drive, and watch your dashboard for warning lights. Do not brake suddenly, and accelerate gradually rather than flooring it. Turn with caution, and use the parking brake when you stop on a hill to protect your transmission. All these practices accumulate to protect your car’s performance.
Few things are more frustrating than a broken car, but by observing these three steps, you quickly get your car back on the road.