When Should You Go For A Car Service?

Regular car servicing is a must if you want to ensure that your car remains in optimal shape and performs accordingly. However, this is mostly done on an annual basis. Most car owners prefer basic car service in Southampton, which involves a comprehensive inspection of the various components of a vehicle and the associated maintenance and repairs. But this doesn't mean you only need car servicing once every year. There are times when your car might develop issues, due to neglect or simply because of use. As such, you will require servicing. But to accurately judge the right time for this, you need to be on the lookout for certain signs. These signs can tell you if there’s something wrong with the vehicle and whether you need to go to an auto repair shop or not. What are these signs? Well, we have discussed them in the following blog. So, if you are due for a car service, we suggest going through the blog to understand these signs and make the right choice regarding your car maintenance. 

Your Dashboard Warning Lights

One of the most obvious indicators of car trouble is the dashboard in your car. It has several warning lights installed that come up when there is something wrong with the car. Even more, with the advancement in technology and the integration of several electrical components, the dashboard has also become quite advanced. Now, it can tell you if the specific problem is related to your tyres, engine, undercarriage, brakes, and so on. Thus, you must pay attention to the warning lights on the dashboard if you want to know when to take your car to a garage. 

In most cases, the light will come up, even if the problem is minor. However, instead of ignoring it, thinking that it won't affect the larger picture, you should properly head to an auto repair shop and let a technician inspect your car. Furthermore, it can also help when you go for your MOT in Southampton, as when you take care of the ensuing problems in a vehicle, it improves your chances of passing the test. 

Car Making Strange Noises

Although cars make noise when you drive them, it is generally a muffled humming sound, which is made by the engine. So, if you start hearing a strange or new sound coming from the vehicle, then understand that it might very well be a sign of some ensuing problem. Cars should not typically make any sound, and thus, a strange sound such as rattling, squealing, scratching, etc., must promptly be investigated. 

These are often indicators of some serious issues, with the engine, transmission, tyres, brakes, or even the steering. So, ignoring these sounds will not only further magnify the issues, but it will also make it harder for your car to work optimally, while also endangering you on the road. For the safety of yourself and the passengers, you must make sure to get your car checked when you hear such noises. This is also the time when you should take your car to an auto repair shop for a car service. 

You Are Experiencing Vibrations When Driving

Yet another indicator of serious car trouble is vibration. When you drive your car, it might be a little rough due to the quality of your suspension system and the tyres you are using, however, this doesn't lead to vibrations in the undercarriage or in your steering wheel. So, if you do notice such vibrations, then you must understand that something’s wrong with the car. In such cases, you should immediately head to a nearby garage.

Most of the time, such vibrations are indicative of tyre or steering trouble. When your tyres are worn out unevenly, they will become out of balance and cause vibrations, especially at higher speeds. However, this is also possible if your wheels have become misaligned. 

Your Car Is Leaking Fluids

This is another obvious sign that indicates serious car trouble. Every car requires certain fluids to function properly. They not only ensure that the several car components remain properly lubricated, but also that they function without getting overheated. As such, you will find that some of the core car components like the engine, brakes, steering, transmission, brakes, and even the suspension have some fluid to ensure optimal functioning. 

The problem starts when the fluid starts leaking. If you find your car's fluids leaking, you must not attempt to drive it before getting it inspected by a professional. Also, if you want to identify the type of leak, you can look at the spilled fluid, as every fluid has a distinct color. This will allow you to save time when you go to an auto repair shop.

Having Trouble With Your Car Brakes

Finally, you should always be alert when it comes to your car brakes. As you know, the brakes are responsible for stopping a vehicle, and as such, they are quite critical to your safety. So, when you notice your car brakes becoming less effective or the car is taking longer to come to a stop, you should immediately head to an auto repair shop.

Most brake problems tend to stem from faulty parts, such as worn-out brake pads, rotors, discs, etc. So, by ensuring their proper health and condition, you can not only prevent such troubles from developing but also take action in time by heading to an auto repair shop and getting your brakes fixed.