Owning a car comes with its share of responsibilities, especially as you gear up for your upcoming ‘balik kampung’ trip. With traffic jams being a common sight during festive seasons, ensuring the safety of you and your loved ones should always be the top priority.
Before hitting the bustling roads, it’s important to do a quick car check for a safe and enjoyable drive. In our previous blog posts, we shared easy-to-follow ‘5 DIY Car Maintenance Tasks Every Driver Should Do‘ and the essential knowledge on the ‘9 Must-Know Car Dashboard Symbols’.
For those who enjoy taking care of your car, why not consider joining the BHPetrol eCard app? As a member, you’ll gain exclusive access to special deals on essential car accessories and maintenance services, including in-station engine oil and coolant redemption, Lim Tayar cash vouchers, and more.
So, if you’re ready to elevate your car care routine, join us as we unveil 6 common car problems you can diagnose early, ensuring you stay safe, save on repairs, and prevent costly breakdowns.
Malfunctioning Windshield Wiper
When your windshield wiper doesn’t work well, it can leave streaks on the glass, making it hard to see, especially during rainy conditions. To fix this, start by cleaning the blades and windshield thoroughly. If streaks persist, it might be time for new wiper blades for clear visibility and safe driving.
💡Did You Know?
Wipers wear out from regular use, so it’s best to replace them every 6 months.
Troubleshoot Starting Issues
If your car struggles to start or fails to start, don’t ignore the problem. This could indicate that your battery’s voltage might be too weak and a battery replacement might be necessary. Worst case scenario, you may need to jump-start your car’s battery to provide a temporary solution that prevents you from being stranded and facing expensive towing fees.
Managing Excessive Oil Consumption
If you find yourself frequently topping up your oil, it could mean that your car is burning more oil than normal. This may be due to a leak or faulty piston rings. Keep track of your car’s oil level and consult a mechanic if the problem persists. Noticing and solving this issue early can prevent engine damage and prolong the lifespan of your vehicle.
Resolve A Sticking Car Door
The hot weather in Malaysia can cause car doors to become stuck, leading to unnecessary inconvenience and potential safety risks during emergencies. To solve this, you may begin by cleaning dust and dirt from the door seals and rubber, then apply silicone spray to prevent sticking in the future.
A sticking door may sound like nothing compared to other engine issues, however, when it comes to car safety, it’s better safe than sorry.
Detecting Squeaking Brakes
Do you hear a high-pitched squeal when applying the brakes? This could be an indication of worn-out brake pads that need replacement. Don’t wait until the early stages of worn-out leading to the metal-to-metal contact, as this can lead to costly repairs. Get your brake pads checked at a trusted car workshop and replace them if necessary.
💡Did You Know?
Ignoring squeaky brakes can create vibrations that affect other parts of your vehicle, leading to more repairs and expenses.
Warm AC Air
Photo Credits: pvproductions on Freepik
While the air quality from your car’s AC may not directly impact your driving. However, we dare no one can imagine enduring Malaysia’s scorching sun without cool air. If you notice warm air blowing from the AC instead of the usual cold, it could signal problems like refrigerant leaks, compressor issues, or clogged filters.
💡Did You Know?
Need more AC hacks to maximise the cooling effect? Be sure to check out our previous blog on 7 car air-con hacks you wish you knew earlier.
There you have it, 6 car problems you can diagnose earlier before it’s too late. By addressing these car problems early, you can avoid more significant issues, and potentially save on repair costs.
Regular maintenance and prompt attention to warning signs are key to keeping your vehicle in optimal condition, and if you encounter any issues, remember that timely intervention is key to ensuring car safety and longevity. Happy driving!
