No matter how new or old the car is, every vehicle can experience a breakdown under the correct circumstances. A breakdown can be a distressing situation. Even though every car is unique, there are a few basic causes why all cars break down. The 4 causes of car breakdowns are shown below. Understand what causes a vehicle to stop running and how to prevent breakdowns.
1. Overheating
Overheating can commonly lead to breakdowns. Your engine or cooling system could be having problems if your temperature warning light is on. If you see steam rising from your engine or the temperature warning light is on, pull over in the nearest secure area and call us. To avoid overheating, be sure to regularly check and top off your coolant. You can also check your car’s cooling fan at the same time. Look for leaks if you notice the coolant level has dropped. Modern cooling systems shouldn’t actually require topping off in between servicing, thus it is preferable to have a garage have a look at it.
2. A Dead Or Damaged Battery
Breakdowns are most frequently caused by battery problems. You might not be able to start your automobile if you have a battery issue. The starter motor of a car is powered by the battery, while the alternator is turned by the engine to replenish the battery. Leave the lights on when the engine is off to avoid flat batteries. However, there’s a significant possibility that battery issues are the result of many brief trips or a shoddy electrical connection. Old age, faulty parts, issues with the vehicle’s charging system, not using your car for a while, and only using it for short trips are all potential causes of flat batteries. How to avoid a dead battery, Always turn everything off before getting out of the automobile. The majority of modern cars come with a “lights on” warning sound that plays when you open the door to the vehicle, even if turning off the ignition may not always turn off the lights. If you don’t make lengthy travels frequently, your battery won’t have many opportunities to charge. To repair this, charge it overnight once every two weeks or so. The mechanic servicing your vehicle should check that all connections are secure and that the battery terminals are free of corrosion and dirt. You’re already living on borrowed time because the typical car battery only has a 3- to 5-year guarantee.
3. Engine Oil
Your engine could be damaged if the oil level is off, and having too much oil is just as dangerous as having too little. If the DPF ( diesel particulate filter) regeneration doesn’t take place when operating a diesel vehicle with a DPF, the oil may degenerate. This may result in significant engine damage, necessitating an oil change at your shop. Regularly check your engine oil using the dipstick to prevent an issue with it. Between the two lines should be the level. Typically, there is 1 liter of oil between the dipstick’s bottom and top lines. You can find the appropriate oil specification in your vehicle’s manual.
4. Damaged Wheels And Tires
They’re often caused by a sharp object, but other reasons include: The tire’s valve failing or getting damaged (where air is pumped in and let out) If the tire’s hit a curb or a deep pothole, The tire and rim separating after a collision, Old age (due to worn tire tread, even if still legal), If you hit a curb or pothole, check your wheels and rims. Speak to a specialist tire dealer ASAP if there’s any damage. Looking for breakdown cover? Read about how it works: A complete guide to, breakdown cover, Family breakdown cover, Multi-car breakdown cover, Changing a flat tire, Replacing a flat tire with the spare is normally straightforward. Some cars come with a post-puncture sealant instead of a spare. There are a few quick tests that can be made to help avoid a breakdown:
Regularly check the tread depth and pressure of all your tires, including the spare. Uneven tire wear may indicate wheel alignment issues. Ask a tire shop or garage to inspect. Check your handbook for advice on how to adjust your tire pressure if you frequently drive with large loads. Driving over or through puddles that may conceal a pothole or damaged road surface should be avoided.
