Is your car's dashboard displaying the "check engine" sign? You may be looking at a bill close to $400 to get this fixed.
Cars are expensive, so knowing when to take them to an auto repair shop is crucial to keep repair costs low. In some instances, additional preventative maintenance can help keep repairs to a minimum.
However, if you're new to owning a vehicle, you may need to familiarize yourself with some circumstances that could require you to take your car to an auto repair shop in Killeen, TX. For example, like when your vehicle starts making weird noises while you're driving.
This blog explores several reasons to have your car seen by a professional automotive repair service near Killeen, so keep reading to learn more.
When the Dashboard Says So
One of the first signs you need auto repair in Killeen, TX, is when your dashboard notifies you to do so. This can be in the form of one or more lights on your dashboard, but the most common light is the "check engine" one.
The check engine light is typically an outline of an engine with the words "Service Engine," "Check Engine," or "Check" displayed. Depending on your vehicle's make and model, the light may be orange, red, or yellow. You can consult your car's manual to see how your vehicle presents the check engine light.
When this symbol lights up, your vehicle's mechanics are informing you that something has changed and needs repairs. Thus, when you notice this sign light up on your dashboard, it's time to head to your closest auto repairs shop in Killeen.
When Your Car Is Giving Off a Strange Smell
Another sign your car should visit a repair shop is when it starts giving off bad smells. Our noses are very sensitive, so you should pay attention to any new smell your car emits.
For instance, if you smell oil burning, it can mean you're critically low on oil. Conversely, a sweet smell can indicate you have a coolant issue. Other scents to be aware of include:
- General Burning: This might mean a brake issue
- Sulfur (or Rotten Eggs): Check your catalytic converter isn't overloaded
- Burning Rubber: Check for loose hoses or your drive belt
- Gasoline: This could indicate several serious issues
- Burnt Toast: This might mean an electrical short circuit
Most of these problems can be costly to repair or replace, so acting fast when you first notice the smell is crucial. For instance, if your car smells like gas, it could mean you have a fuel tank leak or a fuel line leak, both being severe issues.
When It's Making an Odd Sound
Another early indicator that you must take your vehicle to an auto repair shop is when it starts making a weird noise. When you notice this noise, head to your closest repair shop to have it looked at.
Weird noises can indicate issues with brake pads, a damaged belt, or a problem with the engine. For instance:
- Brake Pads: If your brake pads are worn down, they will start to make a squealing noise when you apply the brakes
- Damaged Belt: If your car's belt is damaged, it'll make a whining noise
- Engine Problem: If there is a problem with your car's engine, it will start to make a variety of strange noises
For Regular Checkups
Another common reason to take your car to an auto repair shop is for regular maintenance checkups. Your vehicle uses oil every time you drive, so checking this regularly is essential. If your car runs out of oil and you don't fix it immediately, it could cause it to act strange or even catch alight.
You also want to check your tire pressure to ensure they're inflated to the optimal level. This way, your tires wear down evenly and provide a smoother drive.
When Performance Changes
Recording your mileage is an excellent habit to get when you're a new driver. You can do this using sites like Fuelly.com, which gives you statistics about your car every time you input data when you fill your gas tank.
For instance, it tells you how many miles you get from your car per gallon. When this number changes suddenly, it could indicate a severe problem, which you should get a mechanic to check out. Performance issues should never be ignored and addressed immediately to avoid costly repairs.
When Your Car Is Shaking While You Drive It
If your car is shaking while you drive, you should take it to an auto repair shop in Killeen. This type of problem could indicate a range of issues, so it's best to get an auto mechanic to diagnose it. Commonly, shaking is caused by:
- Out-of-balance tires
- A defective tire
- A bent wheel
- A worn driveline U-joint
For Tire Changes
Tires are one of the most critical parts of your car, providing traction and helping you stay safe on the road. It's important to keep your tires in good condition by regularly checking them. You should also rotate your tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles to ensure they wear evenly.
If your tires are out of alignment, they can cause uneven wear and tear, leading to premature replacement. Finally, it's essential to have your tires balanced regularly to ensure they are rotating evenly. This will help prevent vibration and make your ride more comfortable.
- Pro Tip: Your car's recommended tire pressure is usually listed on a sticker inside the driver's door
Visit The Best Auto Repair Shop in Your Area
As you can see, there are several reasons why you might need to take your car to an auto repair shop. If you notice your vehicle giving off strange smells or making odd noises, it's best to have your vehicle checked out by a professional. Regular preventative maintenance, like checking your tires and oil level, can keep it running safely and efficiently for years to come.
If you want top-notch vehicle assistance, contact us immediately. We offer a range of services and are the only blue seal ASE-certified mechanics in Killeen, making us your one-stop shop for quality auto repairs.
Is your car's dashboard displaying the "check engine" sign? You may be looking at a bill close to $400 to get this fixed.
Cars are expensive, so knowing when to take them to an auto repair shop is crucial to keep repair costs low. In some instances, additional preventative maintenance can help keep repairs to a minimum.
However, if you're new to owning a vehicle, you may need to familiarize yourself with some circumstances that could require you to take your car to an auto repair shop in Killeen, TX. For example, like when your vehicle starts making weird noises while you're driving.
This blog explores several reasons to have your car seen by a professional automotive repair service near Killeen, so keep reading to learn more.
When the Dashboard Says So
One of the first signs you need auto repair in Killeen, TX, is when your dashboard notifies you to do so. This can be in the form of one or more lights on your dashboard, but the most common light is the "check engine" one.
The check engine light is typically an outline of an engine with the words "Service Engine," "Check Engine," or "Check" displayed. Depending on your vehicle's make and model, the light may be orange, red, or yellow. You can consult your car's manual to see how your vehicle presents the check engine light.
When this symbol lights up, your vehicle's mechanics are informing you that something has changed and needs repairs. Thus, when you notice this sign light up on your dashboard, it's time to head to your closest auto repairs shop in Killeen.
When Your Car Is Giving Off a Strange Smell
Another sign your car should visit a repair shop is when it starts giving off bad smells. Our noses are very sensitive, so you should pay attention to any new smell your car emits.
For instance, if you smell oil burning, it can mean you're critically low on oil. Conversely, a sweet smell can indicate you have a coolant issue. Other scents to be aware of include:
- General Burning: This might mean a brake issue
- Sulfur (or Rotten Eggs): Check your catalytic converter isn't overloaded
- Burning Rubber: Check for loose hoses or your drive belt
- Gasoline: This could indicate several serious issues
- Burnt Toast: This might mean an electrical short circuit
Most of these problems can be costly to repair or replace, so acting fast when you first notice the smell is crucial. For instance, if your car smells like gas, it could mean you have a fuel tank leak or a fuel line leak, both being severe issues.
When It's Making an Odd Sound
Another early indicator that you must take your vehicle to an auto repair shop is when it starts making a weird noise. When you notice this noise, head to your closest repair shop to have it looked at.
Weird noises can indicate issues with brake pads, a damaged belt, or a problem with the engine. For instance:
- Brake Pads: If your brake pads are worn down, they will start to make a squealing noise when you apply the brakes
- Damaged Belt: If your car's belt is damaged, it'll make a whining noise
- Engine Problem: If there is a problem with your car's engine, it will start to make a variety of strange noises
For Regular Checkups
Another common reason to take your car to an auto repair shop is for regular maintenance checkups. Your vehicle uses oil every time you drive, so checking this regularly is essential. If your car runs out of oil and you don't fix it immediately, it could cause it to act strange or even catch alight.
You also want to check your tire pressure to ensure they're inflated to the optimal level. This way, your tires wear down evenly and provide a smoother drive.
When Performance Changes
Recording your mileage is an excellent habit to get when you're a new driver. You can do this using sites like Fuelly.com, which gives you statistics about your car every time you input data when you fill your gas tank.
For instance, it tells you how many miles you get from your car per gallon. When this number changes suddenly, it could indicate a severe problem, which you should get a mechanic to check out. Performance issues should never be ignored and addressed immediately to avoid costly repairs.
When Your Car Is Shaking While You Drive It
If your car is shaking while you drive, you should take it to an auto repair shop in Killeen. This type of problem could indicate a range of issues, so it's best to get an auto mechanic to diagnose it. Commonly, shaking is caused by:
- Out-of-balance tires
- A defective tire
- A bent wheel
- A worn driveline U-joint
For Tire Changes
Tires are one of the most critical parts of your car, providing traction and helping you stay safe on the road. It's important to keep your tires in good condition by regularly checking them. You should also rotate your tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles to ensure they wear evenly.
If your tires are out of alignment, they can cause uneven wear and tear, leading to premature replacement. Finally, it's essential to have your tires balanced regularly to ensure they are rotating evenly. This will help prevent vibration and make your ride more comfortable.
- Pro Tip: Your car's recommended tire pressure is usually listed on a sticker inside the driver's door
Visit The Best Auto Repair Shop in Your Area
As you can see, there are several reasons why you might need to take your car to an auto repair shop. If you notice your vehicle giving off strange smells or making odd noises, it's best to have your vehicle checked out by a professional. Regular preventative maintenance, like checking your tires and oil level, can keep it running safely and efficiently for years to come.
If you want top-notch vehicle assistance, contact us immediately. We offer a range of services and are the only blue seal ASE-certified mechanics in Killeen, making us your one-stop shop for quality auto repairs.
