Newcastle drivers, don’t be left in the lurch! Whether you’re driving a new car or something that was scraped together in the 90s, it’s vital to be in sync with your vehicle. Once you’ve been driving the same car for a while, you generally get a feel for it—allowing you to be more aware when something just isn’t right. However, it can be difficult to tell whether your car simply needs a rest or a professional service. Here are 5 big signs it might be worth putting the DIY handbook down and taking a trip to the mechanic!
#1 Brakes that continue to squeal
When it comes to your brakes, you can never be too careful. While new brakes pads can grind for the first few days after installation, and wet brakes are known to make noise, it’s important to be wary if yours are making noise. Squeaky brakes are an indicator that the pads have worn down or they’ve come loose, which can be dangerous if not fixed. Being such a vital component of your vehicle, if you hear your brakes squeaking and making loud protest, it’s best to book your car in for a check at your local Newcastle mechanic.
#2 Your car’s getting difficult to start
If it’s taking more and more time to start your car, it’s a good idea to have it checked by a professional. Difficulty in starting the engine is one of the first signs of car problems, and can be due to auto-electrical faults, engine troubles or issues with the starter sensor.
#3 The car’s driving differently
If you feel your vehicle is not driving like it usually does—such as vibrating while waiting at lights or your steering wheel shaking—this is a big indicator you need a mechanic. It is also important to book your car in if it’s becoming more difficult to manoeuvre or it’s starting to veer to one side—you may need a wheel alignment. When it comes to your vehicle, it’s better safe than sorry!
#4 You’ve noticed strong and unusual smells
Can you smell fuel or other pungent odours in the car? If your car has a strong smell of fuel, it could be due to a dangerous leak in the fuel line, or it could be that your car is leaking oil and is overheating. Other strong smells could be due to leaks, components grinding and causing damage, or that the engine is burning oil as well as fuel. Whatever the case, if you notice some strange smells, get your car to a mechanic.
#5 Frequent stalling
If you’re having trouble with keeping your car going, this is a fairly obvious indictor that you need to take it to a mechanic. A car that stalls will soon become a car that breaks down completely, so get this seen to as soon as possible. Engine stalling is generally caused by worn-out spark plugs, but can be triggered by a number of other factors as well.
Need a Newcastle mechanic?
Offering a comprehensive range of services for all makes and models, you can count on Newcastle Motor Repairs for all your vehicle needs. Whether your car is a manual or automatic, the expert mechanics will conduct thorough diagnostics to pinpoint the cause of your car problems. From small to complex repairs, they can take care of it all. Book your car in for a check-up, service or repair today!
Where: 12 Mitchell St, Merewether NSW 2291
Using the latest in diagnostic equipment and technology, the team at Charlestown Master Mechanics are sure to find the problem quickly and efficiently. Providing a wide range of mechanical services since 1994, including rego inspections, full EFI services, as well as brake and clutch repairs, Charlestown Master Mechanics is your one-stop car repair shop. Call in today!
Where: 2 Skyline Way, Gateshead NSW 2290
